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HAND-BOOK 


OF 


BIBLE BIOGRAPHY, 



REV. C. R. BARNES, A.B. 


jA 





NEW YORK: 

PHILLIPS & HUNT. 


CINCINNA TI: 

CRANSTON & STOWE. 
1884. 


3-35 


Copyright 1884, by 

PHILLIPS & HUNT.. 


New York. 


BIOGRAPHY is the story of a Life. And what 



study can be more interesting or profitable ? With 
what keen zest does one follow the movements of an im- 
mortal spirit through the circumstances of Time on the 
way to its own Eternity — deluded by the sophistry of evil, 
or “ receiving the instruction of wisdom ” — holding out the 
itching palm for the bribe of sin, or receiving from heaven 
the pearl of price — indulging in sinful and selfish pleasure 
until the Hazarite Samson becomes “ weak as other men,” 
or, rising to the sublime height of self-abnegation and loy- 
alty to God, its faith, like Joshua’s, commands the sun in 
the heavens. Bible Biography has the added charm of 
simplicity of style and a stern adherence to truth ; nothing 
said in extenuation of wrong, no fulsome .praise of virtue. 
While Justice has painted the forms of sin with the somber 
color of “ the blackness of darkness,” Mercy has flooded 
the landscape with the golden light of Providence and 
Grace. So far as the subject of this book is concerned 
there is certainly no need of apology. 


6 


PREFACE. 


In reply to the question, “ Are there not enough books 
upon the subject already?” I answer promptly, No. A 
work is needed : 1 . That will be complete as to the names. 
Outside of the great cyclopedias and histories there is, I 
believe, no work upon the subject that includes all the 
persons mentioned in the Scriptures. Great care has been 
used to make the list in this book absolutely complete. 
2. That will contain all the facts that can be gleaned from 
sacred and profane history, together with other results of 
the best scholarship. To secure such information has been 
my sincere purpose and earnest endeavor. 3. That, by 
reason of its price, should be accessible to Bible students 
generally, who may not be able to purchase the larger 
cyclopedias. This book is intended especially for the use 
of those who desire to avail themselves of the results of 
study, rather than to have its processes spread before them. 
This work is not designed to be, in any sense, homilet- 
ical ; for that would unduly increase its size, and perhaps 
interfere with its value as a Dictionary of Biography. 

I have endeavored to so arrange the material in this 
work as that it shall be found with the least expenditure 
of time and labor. The general divisions — Name and 
Family, Personal History, Character, and Difficul- 
ties — are designed to secure ease of reference. 

It is just to myself to state that I have endeavored in 
each article to mention authorities. This may sometimes 


PREFACE. 


7 


have been omitted, but not with intention. Obligations to 
various authors are acknowledged in the accompanying list 
of works referred to. 

The author of this book would not be justified in offer- 
ing it to the public if he did not believe that it would aid 
the reader in his search of the divine word. May the 
study of these lives so lead us to learn of Him “ who is 
our life ” that, when he shall appear, we shall “ also appear 
with him in glory ! ” 

C. K. Barnes. 


Paterson, N. J., Oct 21, 1884. 


LIST OF THE PRINCIPAL WORKS CONSULTED. 


Angus, J. : The Bible Hand-Book. 

Bible Educator, The : Edited by E. H. Plumptre. 4 vols, 
Bloomfield, S. T. : Greek Testament with Notes. 2 vols. 

Conybeare and Howson : Life and Epistles of St. Paul. 2 vols. 

Ewald, H. : History of Israel. 5 vols. 

Ellicott, C. J. : Comiftentaries on the Epistles of St. Paul. 2 vols. 

Farrar, F. W. : The Life of Christ. 2 vols. The Life and Work of 
St. Paul. 2 vols. 

Freeman, J. M. : Hand-Book of Bible Manners and Customs. 

Geikie, C. : Life and Words of Christ. 

Gesenius : Hebrew Lexicon. 

Haley, J. W. : Alleged Discrepancies of the Bible. 

Henderson, Wm, : Dictionary and Concordance of Names, etc. 

Jahn, John: Biblical Archaeology. 

Josephus, Flavius: Works of. 

Keil and Delitzsch: Commentary on the Old Testament. 

Kitto, John : Biblical Cyclopsedia. 3 vols. 

M’Clintock and Strong: Cyclopsedia. 

Meyer : Commentary of the New Testament. 


LIST OF THE PRINCIPAL WORKS CONSULTED. 0 

Rawlinson, G. : Historical Illustrations of the Old Testament. 
Robinson, E. : Greek and English Lexicon of the New Testament. 

Smith, William: Dictionary of the Bible, Old Testament History, 
New Testament History. 

Stanley, A. P. : History of the Jewish Church. 

Taylor, W. M. : David, King of Israel. 

Thomson, W. M. : The Land and the Book. 2 vols. 

Whedon, D. D. : Commentary. 

Whitney, G. H. : Hand-Book of Bible Geography. 

Winer, G. B. : Biblisches Realworterbuch. Leipsic. 2 vols. 


LIST OP ENGRAVINGS. 


Page 


The Tabernacle 12 

Aaron’s Tomb 13 

Abraham’s Oak ; 27 

Straight Street, Damascus 57 

Sea of Galilee .... 58 

Ancient Threshing-floor 62 

High-priest in Full Costume 72 

Map — Battle-ground of Barak and 

Sisera 79 

Ancient Boll SI 

Damascus 87 

Egyptian Slinger and Sling ... 110 

Cave of Adullam 112 

Scene of David’s Wanderings 113 

Traveling Flasks 114 

Traditional Tomb of David 120 

Mount Carmel 140 

House, with Aliyah 147 

Tomb of Esther and Mordeeai 161 

Tomb of Ezra 167 

Herod’s Temple 202 

Pool of Hezekiah 208 

View of Tyre 212 

Hiram’s Tomb 213 

Jacob’s Well 239 

Sheehem, View of 272 

Bethlehem 278 

A Khan 279 

Nazareth 282 

Pool of Bcthesda 284 

Siloam 286 

Map — The Sea of Galilee 287 

Dead, in Grave-clothes 290 


Page 


Eye-painting, etc 293 

Ruins of Ran bah 296 

Patmos, View of 307 

Joseph’s Tomb and Mt. Gerizim.. 314 

Interior of Rock Sepulcher 316 

Map of Palestine, time of Joshua. . 318 

Ancient Cornets 319 

Battle-field at Gibeon 320 

Bethany, Mount of Olives, etc 335 

Court of Damascus House 374 

Babylon Restored 390 

Tomb of Noah 398 

Tarsus, View of 408 

Paul’s Escape in a Basket 409 

Paul’s Route to Rome 419 

Roman Prisoner Chained 429 

Rachel’s Tomb 445 

Jericho, View of 446 

Ashkelon, View of 459 

Blinding a Prisoner, and Fetters. . . 460 

Saul’s Last Battle 471 

Table of Shew-bread 501 

Altar of Burnt-offering 502 

Golden Candlestick 503 

Solomon’s Temple, Front View. . . 503 

Solomon’s Temple, West End 504 

Solomon’s Temple, Interior. 504 

Solomon’s Throne 505 

Final Assault of Damascus 518 

Captivity of Inhabitants of Damas- 
cus 518 

Ruins of Kirjath-jearim 527 

An Ancient Tower 529 




MAPS. 


Holy Land Frontispiece. 

Jerusalem at Three Epochs To face page 109 

Egypt and the Wilderness “ 375 

Travels of Saint Paul Page 415 

Judah and Israel To face page 501 


BIBLE BIOGRAPHY. 




A'ARON, ot’ AR'ON. — 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Aharon', pHX, 

mountaineer , or enlightener.) The brother of Moses. Aaron was the oldest 
son of the Levite Amram by Jochebed. Exod. vi, 20; jtfum. xxvi, 59. 
He was three years older than Moses, (Exod. vii, 7,) and was born B. C. 
about 1574. 

2. Personal History. Of Aaron’s early life we know nothing. The 
first mention made of him is in the narrative of the Burning Bush, (Exod. 
iv, 14,) in which Moses is reminded of Aaron’s readiness of speech, and 
could, therefore, properly act as his spokesman. Aaron had married a 
woman of the tribe of Judah, named Elisheba, by whom he had four sons 
— Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. Exod. vi, 23. (1) Moses’s Assistant. 

Instructed by God, Aaron went into the wilderness to meet Moses, now 
on his way to Egypt, and found him in Horeb. Exod. iv, 27. B. C. 1491. 
Returning to Goshen, Aaron introduced Moses to the elders of Israel, and 
acquainted them with his mission. Exod. iv, 29, 30. In all their inter- 
views with Pharaoh, Aaron acted as spokesman, and was the actual instru- 
ment of working most of the miracles. Exod. vii, 9, sq. After the passage 
of the Red Sea we have several notices of Aaron during the journey to Sinai. 
Exod. xvi, 6-10, 33, 34. While the battle raged between Israel and Ama- 
lek, Aaron, with Hur, sustained the weary hands of Moses, which held the 
official rod, the uplifting of which secured victory for Israel. Exod. xvii, 9-13. 
With the elders of Israel he assisted at the reception of Jethro, Moses’s 
father-in-law. Exod. xviii, 12. When Moses ascended Mount Sinai to receive 
the tables of the law, (Exod. xxiv, 12,) Aaron, with-his sons (Nadab and Abi- 
hu) and seventy of the elders, accompanied him part of the way, and were 
permitted to behold the symbol of the divine presence. Exod. xxiv, 1, 2, 9-11. 
(2) Golden Calf. During the absence of Moses in the mount the people 
demanded of Aaron a visible image of their God. Either through fear, ig- 
norance, or a desire to please, Aaron complied with their request. From 
the ornaments of gold which they freely offered he cast the figure of a 
calf, (a young bull,) copied from the Egyptian Apis. To fix the meaning of 
this image as a symbol of the true God, Aaron proclaimed a feast to Jeho- 
vah for the following day. The re-appearance of Moses confounded the 
multitude, who were severely punished for their sin. Aaron tried to excuse 
himself by casting the whole blame upon the people, but was sternly re- 
buked by his brother, (Exod. xxxii,) through whose intercession, however, 
he received the divine forgiveness. Deut. ix, 19, 20. (3) High-priest. In 

the ecclesiastical establishment Aaron was high-priest, and his sons and 


12 


AARON 


descendants priests; and the whole tribe of Levi was set apart as the 
sacerdotal or learned caste. After the tabernacle was completed, and 
every preparation made for service, Aaron and his sons were consecrated 
by Moses. Lev. viii, 6. B. C. 1490. A sad affliction soon came to him in 
the conduct of Nadab and Abihu, and their untimely end. Aaron and 
his surviving sons, Eleazar and Ithamar, being priests, were forbidden to 
manifest the usual signs of mourning. Lev. x, 1-7. (4) Aaron and Miriam. 

Aaron joined Miriam in her invidious conduct against Moses. They were 



THE TABERNACLE, ACCORDING TO SMITH. 


jealous of his exalted position, arid Miriam found an opportunity for the 
expression of her discontent in the marriage of Moses with a Cushite woman. 
She was smitten with leprosy, which was removed, and forgiveness se- 
cured for her and Aaron, through the intercession of Moses. Num. xii. 
(5) Rebellion of Korah. Later, (B. C. about 1471,) a conspiracy was formed 
against Aaron and Moses, led by Korah, of the tribe of Levi, and Dathan and 
Abiram, Reubenites. This resulted in the destruction of th$ conspirators 
at the hand of God. On the morrow the people gathered and murmured 


AARON. 


13 


against Moses and Aaron, saying, “ Ye have killed the people of the Lord.” 
A plague broke out among the people, which was stopped by the interces- 
sion of Aaron. “ The true vindication of Aaron’s priesthood was, not so 
much the death of Korah by the tire of the Lord, as the efficacy of his offer- 
ing of incense to stay the plague, by which lie was seen to be accepted as an 
intercessor for the people.” Num. xvi. As a further evidence of Aaron’s 
divine appointment, the chiefs of the various tribes were required to de- 
posit their staves (rods) with Aaron’s in the tabernacle. In the morning it 
was found that Aaron’s staff had budded, blossomed, and yielded almonds, 
while the others remained as they were. The rod was preserved “for a 
token against the rebels.” Num xvii. (6) At Meribah. The people found 
fault with Moses because of the lack of water, and Aaron joined with his 
brother in his sin. On this account he was not permitted to enter the 
Promised Land. Num. xx, 8-13, 24. B. C. 1453. (7) Death. Aaron’s 

death seems to have followed very speedily. When Israel reached Mount 



AAhON’S TOMB. 


Hor the divine command came that Aaron, his brother Moses, and Eleazar, 
his son, should go up into the mountain in view of all the people, and that 
he should there transfer his priestly robes to Eleazar. “ And Aaron died 
there in the top of the mount,” (Num. xx,) aged 123 years, (Num. xxxiii, 39,) 
and the people mourned for him thirty days. B. C. 1452. 

3. Character. (1) Personal. A man of ready speech, Aaron seems to 
have been wanting in steady self-reliance, and was, therefore, fitted to be 
an adjutant only. Aaron was thrown, at Sinai, for a moment, on his own 
responsibility, and he failed, not from any direct unbelief on his own part, 
but from a weak inability to withstand the demand of the people for visible 
“ gods to go before them.” He manifested a firm, constant devotion to his 
brother, only disturbed for a passing moment by his joining Miriam in her 
murmuring against Moses. Leaning, as he seems to have done, wholly 
on him, it is not strange that he should have shared his sin at Meribah. 


14 


ABAGTHA— ABEDNEGO. 


(2) Typical. “ Aaron was a type of Christ, not in his personal, but in his 
official, character: (1) As high-priest, offering sacrifice; (2) In entering into 
the holy place on the great day of atonement, and acting as intercessor; 

(3) In being anointed with the holy oil by effusion, which was prefigurative 
of the Holy Spirit with which our Lord was endowed ; (4) In bearing the 
names of all the tribes of Israel upon his breast and shoulders, thus pre- 
senting them always before God, and representing them to him ; (5) In being 
the medium of their inquiring of God by Urim and Thummim, and of the 
communication of his will to them.” — M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia. 

ABAG'THA, (Heb. Abagtha', given by fortune,) one of the seven 

chief eunuchs of Xerxes, who were commanded by the king to bring Queen 
Yashti into the royal presence. Esth. i, 10. B. C. about 519. 

AB'DA, (Heb. Abda', KTO, the servant, that is, of God.) 

1. The father of Adoniram, which latter was an officer of the tribute 
under Solomon. 1 Kings iv, 6. B. C. before 1014. 

2. The son of Shammua, and a Levite of the family of Jeduthun, resident 
in Jerusalem after the exile. Keh. xi, 17. B. C. 445. Elsewhere (l Chron. 
ix, 16) he is called Obadiah, the son of Shemaiah. 

AB'DEEL, (Heb. AbdeeV, servant of God,) the father of Shel- 

emaiah, which latter was one of those appointed to apprehend Jeremiah. 
Jer. xxxvi, 26. B. C. before 606. 

AB'DI, (Heb. Abdi', vspy, my servant.) 

1. A Levite, and grandfather of Ethan ; the latter was one of the singers 
appointed by David for the sacred service. 1 Chron. vi, 44. B. C. ante 1014. 

2. A Levite, in the reign of Hezekiah, father of Kish. 2 Chron. xxix, 12. 

3. One of the sons of Elam, who put away his Gentile wife after the 
return from Babylon. Ezra, x, 26. B. C. 456. 

AB'DIEL, Heb. AbdieV, servant of God,) son of Guni and father 

of Ahi, one of the Gadites resident in Gilead. 1 Chron. v, 15. 

AB'DON, (Heb. Abdon', fVnpy, servile.) 

1 . The son of Hillel, a Pirathonite, of the tribe of Ephraim. He ruled 
Israel for eight years, B. C. about 1120-1112. The only other fact respect- 
ing him is, that he had forty sons and thirty nephews, ( marg ., sons’ sons,) 
who rode on j r oung asses — a mark of their consequence. Upon his death 
he was buried in Pirathon. Judges xii, 13-15. 

2. A son of Shasliak, and one of the chief Benjamites dwelling in Jerusa- 
lem. 1 Chron. viii, 23. B. C. ante 1200. 

3. The first-born of Gibeon, a Benjamite and resident at Jerusalem. 
1 Chron. viii, 30; ix, 36. B. C. ante 1200. 

4. The son of Micah, and one of those sent by King Josiah to Huldah to 
inquire concerning the recently discovered books. 2 Chron. xxxiv, 20, sq. 
B. C. 624. In 2 Kings xxii, 12, he is called Achbor. 

ABED'NEGO, (Heb. Abed' Nego', “ny, servant of Nego , that is, of 

Nebo, or the Chaldaic Mercury,) the Chaldee name given to Azariah by the 
king of Babylon’s officer. Azariah was one of the three Jewish youths 


ABEL — ABIATHAR. 


15 


who, with Daniel, were selected by Ashpenaz, the master of the eunuchs, 
to be educated in the language and wisdom of the Chaldeans. Dan. i, 3, sq. 
He with his two friends, Shadrachand Meshach, were miraculously delivered 
from the fiery furnace, into which they were cast for refusing to worship 
the golden statue that Nebuchadnezzar erected in the plain of Dura. 
Dan. iii. B. C. about 580. 

ABEL, (Heb. He'bel , a breath ,) the second son of Adam and Eve. 

B. C. 4003. He was a keeper of sheep, and in the worship of his Creator 
offered “of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof.” Cain, who 
was an husbandman, “ brought of the fruit of the ground.” “The Lord 
had respect unto Abel and to his offering.” Whereupon Cain became greatly 
enraged at his brother, and eventually slew him Gen. iv, 1-8. The supe- 
riority of Abel’s sacrifice is ascribed by the Apostle Paul to faith. Heb. 
xi, 4. And as faith implies a previous revelation, it is probable that there 
was some command of God, in reference to the rite of sacrifice, with 
which Abel complied and which Cain disobeyed. There are three references 
to Abel in the New Testament. Our Saviour calls him “ righteous.” Matt, 
xxiii, 35; comp. 1 John iii, 12. In Heb. xii, 24, it is written that “the 
blood of sprinkling speaketh better things than that of Abel.” 

A'BI, (Heb. Abf, '2X, my father ,) the daughter of Zachariah and mother 

of King Hezekiah. 2 Kings xviii, 2. The fuller form of the name, Abijah, is 
given in 2 Chron. xxix, 1. 

ABI'A, (Gr. ’A (3iu,) a Greek form of Abiah, (q. v.) 

1. The name given in 1 Chronicles iii, 10 to the son of Rehoboam, king 
of Judah. 

2. A priest in the time of David, (Luke i, 5,) called Abijah. 1 Chron. 
xxiv, 10. 

ABI'AH, another mode of anglicizing Abijah, (q. v.) 

1. The second son of Samuel, appointed with Joel, his elder brother, 
judge of Beersheba, by his father. The brothers “ turned aside after lucre, 
and took bribes, and perverted judgment.” By reason of their conduct 
Israel demanded of Samuel a king. 1 Sam. viii, 2, sq. ; 1 Chron. vi, 28. 
B. C. about 1095. 

2. The wife of Hezron and mother of Asliur. 1 Chron. ii, 24. B. C. about 
1471. 

3. One of the sons ofBecher, the son of Benjamin. 1 Chron. vii, 8. 

A'BI-AI/BON, (Heb. Abi-Albon', father of strength, valiant,) 

one of David’s mighty men, (2 Sam. xxiii, 31,) called in the parallel passage 
(1 Chron. xi, 32) by the equivalent name Abiel, (q. v.) 

ABI'ASAPH, (Heb. Abiasaph', father of gathering ,) the last- 

mentioned (Exod. vi, 24) of the sons of Korah, the Levite. B. C. 1530. 
His identity with Ebiasaph (q. v.) (1 Chron. vi, 23, 37) is a matter of much 
uncertainty and difference of opinion. The probability is they are different 
persons. 

ABI'ATHAR, (Heb. Ebyathar ', rPDK. father of abundance , that is, 

liberal ,) the thirteenth high -priest of the Jews, son of Ahimelech, and third 


16 


ABIDA — ABIEZER. 


in descent from Eli. B. C. 1062-1014. His father and his brethren were 
slain by order of Saul because Ahimelech had inquired of the Lord for 
David and given him show-bread to eat, and also the sword, of Goliath. 
1 Sam. xxii. Abiathar fled, with an ephod in his hand, to David, who was 
in the cave of Adullam. 1 Sam. xxii, 1, 20-23. He was well received by Da- 
vid, and accompanied him in his wanderings, inquiring of the Lord for him. 
1 Sam. xxx, 7. It is probable that his being the unintentional cause of the 
death of Abiathars kindred, and his gratitude to Ahimelech for kindness 
shown him, made David the firm friend of Abiathar for life. When he 
became king he appointed Abiathar high-priest, (1 Chron. xv, 11 ; 1 Kings 
ii, 26,) and a member of his cabiuer. 1 Chron. xxvii, 34. Zadok had been 
appointed high-priest by Saul after the death of Ahimelech. David did 
not remove him from office, so that both appointments stood, and Zadok 
and Abiathar were joint high-priests. 1 Kings iv, 4. With Zadok he super- 
intended the removal of the ark to Jerusalem. 1 Chron. xv, 11; 1 Kings 
ii, 26. Abiathar remained faithful to David during the rebellion of Absa- 
lom, (2 Sam. xv, 24,) but joined Adonijali when he set himself up as suc- 
cessor of David, while Zakok was on Solomon’s side. 1 Kings i, 19. For 
this Solomon banished Abiathar to Anathoth, and deposed him from the 
priesthood, telling him that only his sacerdotal character and former serv- 
ices to David saved him from capital punishment. 1 Kings ii,. 26, 27. 
Zadok the priest was put in the room of Abiathar. 1 Kings ii, 35. This 
completed the predicted doom upon the house of Eli, and restored the pon- 
tifical succession — Zadok, who remained liigh-priest, being of the elder 
line. of Aaron’s sons. 

Difficulties.— In Mark ii, 26, the phrase “in the days of Abiathar the high- 
priest ” is susceptible of the rendering, In [the time] of Abiathar [the soil] of 
the high-priest; (see M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia,) or perhaps Abia- 
thar was actively assisting his father at the time referred to in 2 Sam. viii, 17; 
1 Chron. xviii, 16; xxiv, 3, 6, 31. The names of Ahimelech and Abiathar have 
probably been transposed by copyists, for the Syriac and Arabic Versions have 
“Abiathar, the son of Ahimelech.” 

ABI'DA, many AB'XDA, (Heb. Abida ', JTP2K, father of knowledge , 

that is, knowing ,) the fourth of the five sons of Midian, the son of Abra- 
ham by Keturah. Gen. xxv, 4; 1 Chron. i, 33. B. C. 1853. 

AB'IDAH, many ABI'DAH, a less correct mode of anglicizing Abida. 
Gen. xxv, 4. 

AB'IDAN, (Heb. Abidan', father of judgment, that is, judge.) son 

of Gideoni, prince of the tribe of Benjamin. Num. i, 11; ii, 22; x, 24. 
B. C. 1491. At the erection of the tabernacle he made his contribution on 
the ninth day. Num. vii, 60, 65. 

A'BIELj (Heb. AbieV, father of strength , that is, strong) 

1. A Benjamite, son of Zeror (1 Sam. ix, 1) and father of Ner, (1 Sam. 
xiv, 51.) which last was the grandfather of King Saul. 1 Chron. vii, 33 ; ix, 39 
In 1 Sam. ix, 1 the phrase “ son of AbieV' should be “ grandson of Abiel." 

2. One of David’s mighty men. 1 Chron. xi, 32. He is the same as Abi- 
albon, the Arbathite. 2 Sam. xxiii, 31. B. C. 1490. 

ABIE'ZER, (Heb. id., "iTjpatf, father of help , that is, helpful) 

1. The second son of Hammoleketh, sister of Gilead and granddaughter 


ABIGAIL — ABIHU. 


17 


of Manasseh. 1 Chron. vii, 11, 18. He was founder of the family to which 
Gideon belonged, and which bore this name as a patronymic. Josh, xvii, 2 ; 
Judg. vi, 34. B. C. about 1450. He is elsewhere called Jeezer, and his 
descendants Jeezerites. Hum. xxvi, 30. 

2. The Anethothite, one of David’s thirty chief warriors. 2 Sam. xxiii, 
27. Abiezer commanded the ninth division of the army. 1 Chron. xxvii. 12. 
B. 0. 1018. 

ABIGAIL, (Heb. Abiga'yil, father of joy, that is, exultation.) 

1. The wife of Nabal, (q. v.,) a sheep-master of Carmel. 1 Sam. xxv, 3. 
B. C. about 1060. In sheep-shearing time David sent some of his young 
men to Nabal for a present, which was insolently refused. David was 
greatly enraged, and set out with four hundred men to avenge the insult. 
Abigail, having been informed of her husband’s conduct and the impending 
danger, went to meet David with an abundant supply of bread, corn, wine, 
etc. She prayed David’s forbearance, arguing from Nabal’s character (ver. 
25) the leadings of God by which David had bet-n kept from murder by her 
coming to meet him, and the fact that God is the avenger of the wicked. 
Yer. 26. David was mollified by Abigail’s tact and beauty, and he recalled 
his vow. Returning home, Abigail found her husband intoxicated, and told 
him nothing of her conduct and his danger until morning. The information 
produced so great a shock “ that his heart died within him and became as a 
stone,” (ver. 37.) and lie died about ten days after. Abigail became David’s 
wife, and shared his varying fortunes, dwelling at Gath, (1 Sam. xxvii, 3.) 
being among the captives taken by the Amalekites from Ziklag, (xxx, 5,) 
and accompanying her husband to Hebron when he was anointed king. 
2 Sam. ii, 2. She bore David a son named Chileab, (iii, 3,) called also 
Daniel. 1 Chron. iii, 1. 

2. A daughter of Nahash (Jesse) and sister of David, and wife of Jether, 
or Ithra, an Ishmaelite, by whom she had Amasa. 2 Sam. xvii, 25 ; 1 Chron. 
ii, 16, 17. 

ABXHA'IL, (Heb. Abicha'yil , father of might, that is, mighty.) 

1. The father of Zuriel, which latter was chief of the Levitical family of 
Merari when Moses numbered the Levites at Sinai. Nurn. iii, 35. B. C. 
1490. 

2. The wife of Abishur (of the family of Jerahmeel) and mother of Ahban 
and Mohid. 1 Chron. ii, 29. B. C. atiout 1471. 

3. The son of Huri, and one of the chiefs of the family of Gad, who settled 
in Bashan. 1 Chron. v, 14. B. C. between 1300 and 771. 

4. The daughter, that is, descendant, of Eliab, David’s oldest brother, and 
second wife of Rehoboam. She could hardly have been the daughter of 
Eliab, as David, his youngest brother, was thirty years old when he began 
to reign, some eighty years before her marriage. 2 Chron. xi, 18. B. C. 974. 

5. The father of Esther and uncle of Mordecai. Esther ii, 15; ix, 29. 
B. C. ante 518. 

ABI'HU, (Heb. Abihu', to whom he, that is, God, is father,) the 

second son of Aaron by Elisheba, (Exod. vi, 23 ; Num. iii, 2.) who, with 
his father, eldest brother, and seventy elders of Israel, accompanied Moses 
part way up Mount Sinai, and beheld manifestations of God’s presence. 


18 


ABIHUD — ABIJAH. 


Exod. xxiv, 1, 9, 10. Afterward, with his brothers Nadab, Eleazar, and 
Ithamar, he was set apart and consecrated to the priesthood. Exod. xxviii, 1. 
Nadab and Abihu neglected, on one occasion, to use fire from off the altar 
in burning incense, substituting “ strange,” or common, fire instead. They 
were instantly struck dead, (probably by lightning,) and were taken away 
and buried in their clothes without the camp. Lev. x, 1, ff. B. C. 1490. It is 
probable that the sacrilege was committed in drunken recklessness, as im- 
mediately a law was given prohibiting wine or strong drink to the priest 
whose turn it was to enter the tabernacle. Ver. 9. 

ABI'HUD, (Heb. Abihud ', TliTSK, father of renown ,) one of the sons 

of Bela, the son of Benjamin. 1 Chron. viii, 3. 

ABI'JAH, (Heb. Abiyahf, iTOX, whose father God is.) 

1. A son of Jeroboam I., king of Israel. On his falling ill, Jeroboam 
sought help secretly from the God whom he had openly forsaken. He sent 
his wife, disguised and bearing a present of bread and honey, to Ahijah, 
the prophet, who was at Shiloh. The prophet w*as blind, but had been 
warned by God of her coming. He revealed to her that, though the child 
was to die, yet because there was found in Abijah only, of all the house of 
Jeroboam, “ some good thing toward the Lord,” he only, of all that house, 
should come to his grave in peace, and be mourned in Israel. The' queen 
returned home, and the child expired as she crossed the threshold. And 
they buried him ; and all Israel mourned for him.” 1 Kings xiv, 1-18. B. C. 
about 956. 

2. The second king of the separate kingdom of Judah, the son of Re- 
hoboam and grandson of Solomon. 1 Chron. iii, 10. He is called Abijah , 
2 Chron. xii-xiv, and Abijam in 1 Kings xiv, 31 ; xv, 1-8. Abijah began 
to reign B. C. 958, in the eighteenth year of Jeroboam, king of Israel, and 
reigned three years. 2 Chron. xiii, 1, 2. Considering the separation of the 
ten tribes of Israel as rebellion, Abijah made a vigorous attempt to bring 
them back to their allegiance. He marched with 400,000 men against 
Jeroboam, who met him with 800,000 men. In Mount Ephraim he ad- 
dresses a speech to Jeroboam and the opposing army, in which he advo- 
cates a theocratic institution, refers to the beginning of the rebellion, shows 
the folly of opposing God’s kingdom, and concludes with urging Israel not 
to fight against God. His view of the political position of the ten tribes 
with respect to Judah, though erroneous, is such as a king of Judah would 
be likely to take. He gained a signal victory over Jeroboam, who lost 
500,000 men, and though he did not bring Israel to their former allegiance, 
he took Bethel, Jeshanah, and Ephraim, with their dependent towns, from 
them, and Jeroboam never again warred with him. 2 Chron. xiii. He imi- 
tated his father’s sins, (1 Kings xv, 3,) and had fourteen wives, by whom he 
had twenty-two sons and sixteen daughters. 2 Chron. xiii, 21. He was 
succeeded by Asa, his son. 2 Chron. xiv, 1. 

Difficulty.— The maternity of Abijah. In 1 Kings xv, 2, we read, “His 
mother’s name was Maachah, the daughter of Abishalom,” (compare 2 Chron. xi, 
20, 22 ;) but in 2 Chron. xiii, 2, “ His mother’s name also was Michaiah, the 
daughter of Uriel of Gibeah.” The solution of the difficulty probably is, that the 
mother of Abijah had two names, and that Absalom was her grandfather. 

3. One of the descendants of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, and chief of one 
of the twenty-four courses or orders into which the whole body of the 


ABIJAM— ABIMELECH. 19 

priesthood was divided by David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 10. Of these the course 
of Abijah was the eighth. B. 0. 1015. 

4. The daughter of Zechariah and mother of King Hezekiah, (2 Chron. 
xxix, 1,) and, consequently, the wife of Aliaz. She is called Abi, 2 Kings 
xviii, 2. B. C. 726. 

5. One of the priests, probably, who affixed their signatures to the cove- 
nant made with God by Neliemiah. Neh. x, 7. He seems to be the same 
(notwithstanding the great age this implies) who returned from Babjdon with 
Zerubbabel, (Neh. xii, 4,) and who had a sou Zichri. Neh. xii, 17. B. C. 445. 

ABF JAM, (Heb. Abiyam', fattier of the sea, that is, seaman ,) the 

name always given in the Book of Kings to the king of Judah, (1 Kings 
xiv, 31; xv, 1, 7, 8;) elsewhere called Abijah. 1 Kings xiv, 1, refers to 
another person. Abijam is probably a clerical error, some MSS. giving 
Abijah. 

ABIM'AEL, (Heb. Abimael', father of Mad,) one of the sons of 

Joktan, in Arabia. Gen. x, 28; 1 Chron. i, 22. He has been supposed to 
be the founder of an Arabian tribe called MaeL B. C. 2247. 

ABIM'ELECH, (Heb. Abime'lek, father of the king, that is, royal 

father ,) probably a general title of royalty, as Pharaoh among the Egyptians, 

1. The Philistine king of Gerar in the time of Abraham. Gen. xx, 1, sq. 
B. C. 1898. After the destruction of Sodom, Abraham removed into his 
territory, and remained some time at Gerar. Abimelech took Sarah, whom 
Abraham had announced to be his sister, into his harem, being either 
charmed with her beauty or desirous of allying himself with Abraham. 
God, in a dream, appeared to Abimelech, and threatened him with death on 
account of SaralL, because she was married. Abimelech, who had not yet 
come near her, excused himself on the ground that he supposed Sarah to 
be Abraham’s sister. That Abimelech, in taking Sarah, should have sup- 
posed that he was acting "in the integrity of heart and purity of hands” 
is to be accounted for by considering the customs of that day. Abimelech, 
the next morning, obeyed the divine command, and restored Sarah to A.bra- 
ham, presenting him with a liberal present of cattle and servants, and 
offered him a settlement iu any part of the country. He also gave him a 
thousand pieces of silver as u a covering of the eyes” for Sarah; that is, 
according to some,, as an atoning present. Others think that the money 
was to procure a veil tor Sarah to conceal her beauty, that she might not 
be coveted for her comeliness. " Thus she was reproved ” for not having 
worn a veil, which, as a married woman, according to the custom of the 
country, she ought to have done. Some years after, B. G. about 1892, 
Abimelech. accompanied by Pichol, 11 the chief captain of his host,” repaired 
to Beersheba to make a covenant with Abraham, which is the first league 
on record. Abimelech restored a well which had been dug by Abraham, 
but seized by the herdsmen of Abimelech without his knowledge. Gen. 
xxi, 32-34. 

2. Another king of Gerar in the time of Isaac. Gen. xxvi, 1-22. B. C. 
1804. Supposed to have been the son of the preceding. Isaac sought ref- 
uge with Abimelech from famine, and dwelt at Gerar. Having the same 
fear respecting his wife, Eebekali, as his father entertained respecting 

2 


20 


ABIMELECH. 


Sarah, he reported her to be his sister. Abimelecli discovered the untruthful- 
ness of Isaac’s statement (ver. 8,) whereupon he reproved him for what he 
had said, and forbade any of his people to touch Rebekah on pain of death. 
The agricultural operations of Isaac in Gerar were very successful, returning: 
him, in one year, a hundred-fold. He also claimed his proprietary right to 
the soil by re-opening the wells dug by his father. The digging of wells, 
according to the custom of those times, gave one a right to the soil. His 
success made the Philistines envious, so that even Abimelech requested him 
to depart, fearing his power. Isaac complied, and encamped in the open 
country, (“ the valley of Gerar.”) In this valley he opened the old \v« 11s of 
Abraham’s time, and his people dug three new ones. But Abimelech’s 
herdsmen contended concerning two of these, and the patriarch removed to 
so great a distance that there was no dispute respecting the third. After- 
ward Abimelech visited Isaac at Beersheba, and desired to make a covenant 
of peace with him. Isaac referred to the hostility that the Philistines had 
shown ; to which Abimelech replied that they did not smite him, that is, 
drive him away by force, but let him depart in peace, and closed by recog- 
nizing Isaac as being one blessed of God. Isaac entertained AbimelecFi 
and his companions with a feast, contracted the desired covenant with them, 
and dismissed them in peace Gen. xxvi, 26-31. 

3. King of Shechem. (1) His conspiracy. After Gideon’s death Abime- 
leeh formed a conspiracy with his mother’s family, who seems to have had 
considerable influence in Shechem. The argument used was, the advantage 
of the rule of me person to that of seventy. He also reminded them that he 
was one of themselves. Thus influenced, the Sheclieroites furnished hiua 
money out of the treasury of Baalberith, with which Abimelech hired des- 
perate men, and, repairing to Ophrah with them, slew all his brothers save 
Jotham, the youngest, who hid himself. (2) The Bramble King. At a 
general assemblage of the men of Shechem and the house of Millo (q. v.) 
Abimelech was declared king. B. C. about 1209. When Jotham was told 
of the election of Abimelech he went to the top of Mount Gerizim, where 
the Shechemites were assembled for some public purpose, perhaps to in- 
augurate Abimelech, (Kitto,) and rebuked them in liis famous parable of 
the trees choosing a king. Judg. ix, 7-21. (3) Revolt of Shechem. Judg- 

ment against Abimelech was not long delayed, for in three years u God sent 
an evil spirit between ” him “and the men of Shechem,” and they “dealt 
treacherously with Abimelecli.” They caused ambuscades to be laid in the 
mountains, and robbed all that passed. The design was, probably, to bring 
the government into discredit by allowing such lawlessness, or to waylay 
Abimelech himself. The insurgents found a leader in Gaal, (q. v.,) the son 
of Ebed, who, while they were cursing Abimelech in the excitement of a 
village feast to Baal, called upon them to revolt from Abimelech, and de- 
clared that he would dethrone him. He then challenged the king to battle. 
Judg. ix, 22-29. (4) Destroys Shechem. Zebul, the ruler of Shechem, sent 

word to Abimelech of the revolt, and requested him to place himself in am- 
bush that night, and be prepared to surprise Gaal iu the morning. As was 
expected, Gaal started out in the morning, was met and defeated by Abim- 
elech, and prevented by Zebul from entering the city. The next day the 
people went out into the field, possibly to continue their vintage, (Keil.) and 
Abimelech slew them with two of his companies, while with his other two 
lie seized the city gates. After fighting against the city all day he took it. 


ABINADAB — ABIRAM. 


21 


destroyed it utterly, and strewed it with salt. Judg. ix, 30-45.. (5) Destroys 
the hold. When the inhabitants of the town of Shechem heard of the fate 
of the city they betook themselves to the temple of Baal-berith. Their 
purpose in so doing was evidently not to defend themselves, but to seek 
safety at the sanctuary of their God from the vengeance of Abimelech. 
When lie heard of this, Abimelech went with his men to Mount Zalmon, 
and brought from thence branches of trees. These were piled against the 
building and set on tire. The building was consumed with all its occupants, 
about one thousand m6n and women. Judg. ix, 4G-49. (6) Abimelech’s 

death. At last the fate predicted by Jothain (v. 20) overtook Abimelech. He 
went from Shechem to Thebez, besieged the town, and took it. This town 
possessed a strong tower, and in this the inhabitants took refuge. When 
Abimelech approached near the door to set it on fire a woman threw a 
piece of millstone (the upper millstone) upon him, crushing his skull. See- 
ing that he was mortally wounded, he called upon his armor-bearer to thrust 
him through with a sword, lest it should be said “a woman slew him.” 
After Abimelech’s death his army was dissolved. “ Thus God rendered 
the wickedness of Abimelech” upon his head “which he did unto his 
father, in slaying his seventy brethren.” Judg. ix, 50-56. B. C. about 
1206. 

4. The son of Abiathar, and high-priest in the time of David. 1 Chron. 
xviii, 16 . The name is probably an error of transcription for Ahimelech. 
2 Sam. viii, 17, (q. v.) 

5. In the title of Psa. xxxiv the name of Abimelech is interchanged for 

that of Aciiish, (q. v.,) king of Gath, to whom David fled lor refuge from 
Saul. 1 Sam. xxi, 10. , 

ABIN'ADAB, (Heb. Abinadab', father of nobleness , that is, 

noble.) t t • : 

1. A Levite of Kirjath-jearim, in whose house the ark was deposited 
after it was returned by the Philistines. 1 Sam. vii, 1; 2 Sam. vi, 3, 4; 
1 Chron. xiii, 7. B. C. about 1120. 

2. The second of the eight sons of Jesse, (1 Sam. xvii, 13 ; 1 Chron. ii, 
13,) and one of the three who followed Saul to the campaign against the 
Philistines in which Goliath defied Israel. 1 Sam. xvii, 13. B. C. 1063. 

3. One of the four sons of King Saul. 1 Chron. ix, 39 ; x, 2. He was 
slain by the Philistines in the battle of Gilboa. 1 Sam. xxxi, 2; 1 Chron. x, 2. 
B. C. 1056. His name appears to be omitted in the list in l Sam. xiv, 49. 

4. The father of one of Solomon’s purveyors (or, rather, Ben- Abinadab is 
to be regarded as the name of the purveyor himself, (M’Clintock and 
Strong’s Gyclopcedia, s. v.; also margin) who presided over the district of 
Dor, and married Taphath, the daughter of Solomon. 1 Kings iv, 11. B. C. 
1014. 

ABIN'OAM, (Heb. Abino'am , father of pleasantness or grace , 

that is, gracious ,) the father of Barak, the judge. Judges iv, 6, 12; v, 1, 12. 
B. C. ante 1296. 

ABI'RAM, (Heb. Abiram', DT2N, father of height , that is, lofty, 
proud) 

1. One of the sons of Eliab, a Reubenite, who, with his brother Dathan, 
and with On, of the same tribe, joined Korah, a Levite, in a conspiracy 


22 


ABISHAG— ABISIIAI. 


against Moses and Aaron, B. C. about 1471, in wliich lie, with the other 
conspirators, were destroyed by an earthquake. Num. xvi, 1-33 ; xxvi, 9, 10 ; 
Dent, xi, 6. See Koraii. 

2. The eldest son of Hiel, the Bethelite, who died prematurely (for such 
is the evident import of the statement) for the presumption or ignorance 
of his father, in fulfillment of the doom pronounced upon the posterity of 
him who should undertake to rebuild Jericho. 1 Kings xvi, 34. B. C. 918. 
For prophecy, see Josh, vi, 26. 

ABISHAG, (Heb. A bisliag', father of error,) a beautiful young 

woman of Shunem, in the tribe of Issachar, who was selected by the serv- 
ants of David to minister unto him in his old age. 1 Kings i, 3, 4. B. C. 
1015. She became his wife, but the marriage was never consummated. 
1 Kings i, 4. Soon after David’s death, Adonijah sought, through the in- 
tercession of Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, the hand of Abishag. But as 
the control and possession of the harem of the deceased king was associated 
with rights and privileges, peculiarly regal, Solomon supposed this demand 
to be part of a conspiracy against the throne. Adonijah was therefore put 
to death. 1 Kings ii, 17-25. See Adonijah. 

AB'ISHAI, many ABISH'AI, (Heb. Abishay', father of a gift,) 

son of Zeruiah, sister of David, (by an unknown father,) and brother to 
Joab and Asahel. 1 Chrou. ii, 16. The first we learn of Abishai is his 
volunteering to accompany David to the camp of Saul. B. C. about 1060. 
The two went down by night and found Saul and his people asleep. 
Abishai begged of David that he might slay Saul with his spear, which was 
stuck in the ground near his head. 1 Sam. xxvi, 6-12. With his brother 
Joab he pursued after Abner (who had just slain Asahel) until sundown, 
and until they had reached the hill of Ammah, (2 Sam. ii, 24,) and aided in 
the treacherous assassination of Abner. 2 Sam. iii, 30. In the war against 
Hanun, undertaken by David to punish the Ammonites for insulting his 
messengers, Abishai, as second in command, was opposed to the army of 
the Ammonites before the gates of Rabbah, and drove them headlong into 
the city. 2 Sam. x, 10, 14; 1 Chron. xix, 11, 15. — Smith. The same impet- 
uous zeal and regard for David which he showed in the night adventure to 
Saul’s camp Abishai manifested in his desire to slay Shimei, when the 
latter abused David. 2 Sam. xvi, 9, 11 ; xix, 21. When the king fled beyond 
Jordan, Abishai remained faithful to David, and was intrusted with the 
command of one of the three divisions of the army which crushed the re- 
bellion. 2 Sam. xviii, 2, 12. B. C. 1023. 

In the revolt of Sheba, the Benjamite, David ordered Amasa to muster 
the forces of Judah in three days. His tardiness compelled David to again 
have recourse to the sons of Zeruiah, and Abishai was appointed to pur- 
sue Sheba, which he did, (accompanied by Joab,) leading the Cherethites, 
the Pelethites, and all the mighty men. 2 Sam. xx, 6-10. Later, when 
David’s life was imperiled by Ishbi-benob, Abishai came to his help and 
slew the giant. 2 Sam. xxi, 15-17. He was chief of the three “mighties,” 
who performed the chivalrous exploit of breaking through the host of the 
Philistines to procure David a draught of water from the well of his native 
Bethlehem. 2 Sam. xxiii, 14-17. Among the exploits of this hero it is men- 
tioned (2 Sam. xxiii, 18) that he withstood three hundred men, and slew 


ABISHALOM— ABNER. 23 

them with his spear, but the occasion of this adventure, and the time and 
manner of his death, are equally unknown. 

In 2 Sam. viii, 13, the victory over the Edomites in the Yalley of Salt, 

B. C, 1040, is ascribed to David, but in 1 Citron, xviii, 12, to Abishai. It is 
hence probable that the victory was actually gained by Abishai, but is as- 
cribed to David as king and commander. (Kitto, s. v .) 

ABISH'ALOM, a fuller form (1 Kings xv, 2, 10) of the name Absalom, 
(q. v.) 

ABISH'UA, (Heb. Abishu'a, father of welfare.) 

1. The son of Phineas, (grandson of Aaron,) and fourth high-priest of the 
Jews. 1 Chron. vi, 4, 5, 50. B. C. about 1300. 

2. One of the sons of Bela, the son of Benjamin, (1 Chron. viii, 4;) possi- 
bly the same as Jerimoth. 1 Chron. vii, 7. 

AB'ISHUR, (Heb. Abishur', father of the wall , that is, strong- 

hold, or perhaps mason ,) the second son of Sharnmai of the tribe of Judah. 
He was the husband of Abihail, and father of two sons, Alihan and Molid. 

1 Chron. ii, 28, 29. B. C. about 1470. 

AB'ITAL, (Heb. Abital ', father of the dew , that is, fresh,) the 

fifth wife of David and mother of Shephatiah, who was born in Hebron. 

2 Sam. iii, 4 ; 1 Chron. iii, 3. B. C. about 1053. 

AB'ITUB, (Heb. Abitub', father of goodness, that is, good,) a 

son of Shaharaim, a Benjamite, by his wife Hushim, in Moab. 1 Chron. viii, 
] 1. B. C. about 1400. 

ABrUD, a Grsecised form (Matt, i, 13) of Abihud, (q. v.,) the great- 
great-grandson of Zerubbabel, and father of Eliakim, among the paternal 
ancestry of Jesus. Matt, i, 13. He is probably the same witli Judah, 
son of Joanna, and father of Joseph in the maternal line, (Luke iii, 26,) 
and also with Obadiah, son of Arnau, and father of Shechaniah in 1 Chron. 
iii, 21. 

AB'NER. — 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Abner', "02K, father of light, 

that is, enlightening ,) the son of Ner, and uncle of Saul, (being the brother of 
Ais father Kish.) 

2. Personal History. (1) Under Saul. Abner was a renowned war- 
rior, and the commander-in-chief of the army of Saul. 1 Sam. xiv, 50. B. 

C. 1087. He was the person who conducted David into the presence of 

Saul after the death of Goliath. 1 Sam. xvii, 57. B. C. 1063. He was 
doubtless held in high esteem by Saul, and with David and Jonathan sat 
at the king’s table. 1 Sam. xx, 25. He accompanied Saul to Hachilah in 
his pursuit of David, who sarcastically reproached him for not keeping 
more securely his master. 1 Sam. xxvi, 1, 5, 15. (2) Under Ish-bosheth. 

After the death of Saul, B. C. 1056, Abner, taking advantage of the feeling 
entertained in the other tribes against Judah, took Ish-bosheth, a surviving 
son of Saul, to Mahanaim, and proclaimed him king, and ruled in his name. 
This happened five years after Saul’s death, the intervening time being prob- 
ably occupied in recovering land from the Philistines, (Keil and Delitzsch, 
in loco,) and in gaining influence with the other tribes. A sort of desultory 


24 


ABRAHAM. 


warfare was kept up for two years between the armies of David and Ish- 
bosheth. The ouly engagement of which we have an account is the battle 
of Gibeah, Joab and Abner commanding the opposing forces. (3) Slays 
Asahel. Abner was beaten and tied for liis life, but was pursued by Asa- 
hel, (brother of Joab and Abishai.) Abner, not wishing to have a blood feud 
with Joab, (for, according to usage, Joab would become the avenger of his 
brother Asahel, in case he was slain,) begged Asahel to cease following 
him and pursue some other one. Asahel refused, and Abner thrust him 
through with a back stroke of his spear. The pursuit was kept up by 
Joab and Abishai until sunset, when a parley was held between the 
leaders, and Joab sounded the trumpet of recall. Abner retired to Maha- 
naim and Joab to Hebron. 2 Sam. ii, 8-30. B. C. about 1053. (4) Breaks 

with Ish-bosheth. At last Abner took a step which was so presumptuous 
and significant of his consciousness of power that even the feebler Ish- 
bosheth protested. It was the exclusive right of the successor to the 
throne to cohabit with the concubines of the deceased king. Yet Abner 
took to his own harem Rizpah, one of Saul’s concubines. The rebuke of 
Ish-bosheth so greatly enraged him that he declared his purpose of aban- 
doning the house of Saul, and allying himself with David. 2 Sam. iii, 6-9. 
To excuse his conduct he asserted that he was aware of the divine purpose 
concerning David. (5) Joins David. He made overtures through messen- 
gers to David, who required, as a preliminary, the restoration of his wife, 
Michal, who had been given to Phaltiel by Saul. Abner made a tour 
among the elders of Israel and Benjamin, advocating the cause of David. 
He then repaired in person to David, who showed him great attention and 
respect, giving him and the twenty men accompanying him a feast. In 
return Abner promised to gather all Israel to the standard of David, and 
was then dismissed in peace. 2 Sam. iii, 9, sq. B. C. 1048. (6) Slain by 

Joab. Joab, returning from Hebron from a military expedition, and fearing 
the influence of such a man as Abner, resolved to avenge his brother’s 
death. Unknown to the king, but doubtless in his name, he sent messen- 
gers after Abner to call him back. Drawing Abner aside under the pre- 
tense of private conversation, he smote him under the fifth rib so that he 
died. 2 Sam. iii, 6-30. B. C. 1048. Abner was buried at Hebron with the 
honors due to a prince and chieftain, David himself following the bier. 
Verses 31, 32. David’s lamentation over Abner exonerated him in public 
opinion from any blame, and his declaration to his servants (2 Sam. iii, 
38, 39) showed that he could properly estimate the character even of an 
enemy, and also that he would have punished his murderer had he only 
possessed the power. 

A'BRAHAM, (Heb. Abraham ', DITUX, father of a multitude.) Up to 

Gen. xvii, 5, also in 1 Chron. i, 27 ; Neh. ix, 7, he is uniformly called 
Abram, (Heb. Abram', D"QX, high father.) 

1. Family. Abraham was a native of Chaldea, and descendant in the 
ninth generation from Shem, the sou of Noah. His father’s name was 
Terah, and he was born in Ur, B. C. about 1996. Gen. xi, 27. 

2. Personal History. “ The life of Abraham, from his call to his death, 
consists of four periods, the commencement of each of which is marked by 
a divine revelation of sufficient importance to constitute a distinct epoch.” 
— Keil. 


ABRAHAM. 


25 


I. The First Pertot>. — The Call. (1) Removal to Charran. When Abra- 
ham was about 70 years of age he, with his father Terah, his nephew Lot,, 
and his wife Sarah, went and abode in Charran. Gen, xi, 27-31. B.C. 1923. 
The reason for this movement is given in Acts vii, 2, 3 : “ The God of glory 
appeared unto our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he 
dwelt in Charran. and said unto him, Get thee out from thy country, and from 
thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall show thee.” (2) Leaves 
Charran. At the death of his father the call to Abraham was renewed. 
“ Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from 
thy kindred, aud from thy father’s house, untoa land that I will show thee.” 
Gen. xii, 1-3. A condition was annexed to the call that he should separate 
from his father’s house, and leave his native land. He left his brother 
Nahor’s family (who had also come to Charran, comp. Gen. xxii, 20, 23 ; 
xxiv, 29, and xxvii, 43) and departed, taking with him Lot, probably re- 
garded as his heir, (Josephus, Ant., i, 7, l,)and all his substance, to go 
“not knowing whither.” Heb. xi, 8 . (3) Reaches Canaan. He traveled 
until he came into the land of Canaan, and formed his first encampment in 
the vale of Morel), between the mountains of Ebal and Gerizim, where his 
strong faith was rewarded by the second promise that his seed should pos- 
sess i his laud. Here Abraham built “an altar to the Lord, who appeared 
unto him.” It is probable that the Canaanites were jealous of Abraham, 
aud that he therefore soon removed to the mountainous district between 
Bethel and Ai, where he also built an altar to Jehovah. (4) In Egypt, 
lie still moved southward until, at length, compelled by a famine, he went 
into Egypt. Fearing that the beauty of Sarah would tempt the Egyptians 
and endanger his life, he caused her to pass for his sister, a term used in 
Hebrew, as in many other languages, for a niece, which she really was. 
(Smith’s History of the Old Testament , p. 72.) Sarah was taken to the royal 
harem and Abraham loaded with valuable gifts, that could not be refused 
without an insult to the king, which he did not deserve. Warned of his 
mistike Pharaoh summoned Abraham, and indignantly rebuked him for his 
subterfuge. He then dismissed Abraham, who went out of Egypt, taking 
his wife and Lot and his great wealth with him. Gen. xii. (5) Return to 
Canaan. Having reached his former encampment between Bethel and Ai, 
he again establishes the worship of Jehovah. Gen. xiii, 3, 4. The increased 
wealth of Abraham and Lot became the cause of their separation. The 
country did not furnish sufficient pasture for the flocks and herds of Abra- 
ham and Lot, and dissensions arose between their herdsmen. In order to 
avoid strife aud consequent weakness before their enemies, Abraham pro- 
posed that they occupy different districts. He gave the choice of locality to 
Lot, who selected the plain of Jordan, and went thither and pitched his tent. 
The childless Abraham was rewarded with a third blessing , in which God 
reiterated his promise to g>ve him the land and a posterity like the dust of 
the earth for number. Then Abraham removed his tent, and came and 
dwelt in Mamre, near Hebron, and built an altar. Gen. xiii. B. C. about 
1917. (6) Rescues Lot. Lot w r as now involved in danger. The five cities 

of the plain had become tributary to Chedorlaomer, king of Elam. In the 
thirteenth year of their subjection they revolted, and Chedorlaomer marched 
against them with three allied kings. The kings of Sodom and Gomorrah 
fell, their cities were spoiled, and Lot and his goods were carried off. Gen. 
xiv, 1-12. Word was brought to Abraham, who immediately armed his 


26 


ABRAHAM. 


dependents, 318 men, and with his Arnorite albes overtook and defeated 
them at Dan, near the springs of Jordan. Abraham and his men pursued 
them as far as the neighborhood of Damascus, and then returned with Lot 
and all the men and goods that had been taken away. B. C. about 1913. 
(7) Meets Melchizedek. Arrived at Salem on their return, they were met 
by Melchizedek, king of Salem, and 41 priest of the most high God,” who 
brought him refreshments. He also blessed Abraham in the name of the 
most high God, and Abraham presented him with a tenth of the spoils. 
By strict right, founded on the war usages still subsisting in Arabia, 
Abraham had a claim to all the recovered goods. The king of Sodom 
recognized this right, but Abraham refused to accept any thing, even from 
a thread to a shoe-latchet, lest any should say, “ I have made Abram rich. 1 ' 
Gen. xiv. 

II. The Second Period. — The promise of a lineal heir and the conclu- 
sion of the covenant. Gen. xv, xvi. (1) Vision of Abraham. Soon after 
this Abraham’s faith was rewarded and encouraged by a distinct and de- 
tailed repetition of former promises, and by a solemn covenant contracted 
between himself and God. He was told, and believed, that his seed should 
be as the stars of heaven for number, and that his posterity should grow 
up into a nation under foreign bondage, and that after four hundred years 
they should come up and possess the land in which he sojourned. Gen. 
xv. (2) Birth of Ishmael. Ten years Abraham had dwelt in Canaan, and 
still he had no child. Sarah, being now seventy-five years of age, and prob- 
ably despairing of bearing children herself, persuaded Abraham to take 
Hagar, her Egyptian handmaid, who bore him Ishmael. Gen. xvi. B.C. 
1910. 

III. The Third Period. — The estdbiishm,ent of covenant, change of name , 
and the appointment of the covenant sign of circumcision. Gen. xvii— xxi. 
(1) Change of name. Thirteen years more pass by, and Abraham reached 
his ninety-ninth year. God appeared to him, and favored him with 
still more explicit declarations of his purpose. He changed his name 
from Abram to Abraham, renewed his covenant, and in token thereof 
commanded that he and his should receive circumcision. Abraham was 
assured that Sarah, then ninety years old, should a year hence become the 
mother of Isaac, the heir of the special promises. Abraham wavered in 
faith and prayed for Ishmael, whom God promised abundantly to bless, but 
declared that he would establish his covenant with Isaac. (2) Circum- 
cision. That very day Abraham, his son Ishmael, and all the males of his 
household, were circumcised. Gen. xvii. (3) Visit of angels. Abraham 
was favored, shortly after, with another interview with God. Sitting in 
his tent door under the oaks of Marare, he saw three travelers approach- 
ing, and offered them his hospitality. They assented, and partook of the 
fare provided, Abraham standing in respectful attendance, according to 
Oriental custom. These three persons were, doubtless, the “ Angel Jeho- 
vah ” and two attending angels. The promise of a son by Sarah was re- 
newed, and her incredulity rebuked. The strangers continued their jour- 
ney, Abraham walking some way with them. (4) Destruction of Sodom, 
The Lord revealed to him the coming judgment upon Sodom and Gomorrah ; 
and then followed that wondrous pleading in behalf of the cities. Gen. xviii! 
Abraham rose early the next morning to see the fate of the cities, and saw 
their smoke rising “ up as the smoke of a furnace.” Gen xix, 27-29. B. C. 


ABBAHAM. 


27 


1898. (5) Sarah taken by Abimelech. After this Abraham journeyed 
southward, and dwelt between Kadesh and Shur, and sojourned in Gerar. 
Abimelech, king of Gerar, sent and took Sarah, but was warned of God in 
a dream, and sent her back the next morning to Abraham, whom he re- 
proved for the deceit he had employed. He was healed in answer to Abra- 
ham’s prayer. Gen. xx. (6) Isaac born. At length, when Abraham was 
one hundred years old, and Sarah ninety, the long-promised heir was born. 
B.C. 1897. The altered position of Ishmael in the family excited the ill-will 



ABRAHArn’S OAK. 


of himself and his mother. This was so apparent in the mocking behavior 
of Ishmael at the weaning of Isaac, that Sarah insisted that he and Hagar 
should be sent away, to which Abraham reluctantly consented. Abraham, 
after settling a dispute concerning a well taken by Abiraeleeh’s servants, 
made a treaty with him. Gen. xxi. 

IV. Tiie Fourth Period. (1) Abraham’s great trial. Gen. xxii-xxv, 11. 
B. C. 1872. When Isaac was nearly grown (twenty-five- years old, says 
Josephus, Ant, i, 13, 2.) God subjected Abraham to a terrible trial of his 
faith and obedience. He commanded him to go to me-mt Moriah, (prob- 


28 


ABRAHAM. 


ably vhere the temple afterward stood,) and there offer up Isaac, whose 
doath would nullify all his hopes and the promises. Probably human 
sacrifices already existed, and therefore the peculiar trial lay in the singu- 
lar position of Isaac and the improbability of his being replaced. Abraham 
decided to obey, “accounting (lit., reasoning ) that God was able to raise him 
up, even from the dead.” Heb. xi, 19. Assisted by his two servants he made 
preparations for the journey, and started early the next morning. On the 
third day he saw the place, and told his servants that he and his son would 
proceed on further to worship and return. Upon Isaac’s asking “Where is 
the lamb for a burnt-offering? ” Abraham replied, “The Lord will provide 
himself a lamb.” The altar was built and Isaac placed thereon. The up- 
lifted hand of the father was arrested by the angel of Jehovah, and a ram 
caught in the thicket was substituted for Isaac. Abraham called the name 
of the place “ Jehovah-jireh, the Lord will provide .” The promises formerly 
made to Abraham were then confirmed in the most solemn manner. Abraham 
returned unto his young men, and with them went to Beer-sheba and dwelt 
there. Gen. xxii, 1-19. (2) Death of Sarah. The next event recorded in Abra- 
ham’s life is the death of Sarah, aged one hundred and twenty-seven years, 
at or near Hebron. B. C. 1860. Abraham purchased, of Ephron the Hittite, 
the cave of Machpelah, the field in which it stood, and all the trees in the 
field, and there he buried Sarah. Gen. xxiii. (3) Marriage of Isaac. His 
next care was to procure a suitable wife for Isaac. He commissioned his 
eldest servant to go to Haran, where Nahor had settled, and get a wife 
for his son from his own family. He went, and, directed by God, chose 
Rebekah, the daughter of Bethuel, son of Nalior. In due time he returned, 
and Rebekah was installed in Sarah’s tent as chief lady of the camp. Gen. 
xxiv. B. C. 1857. Some time after Abraham took another wife, Keturah, 
by whom he had several children. These, together with Ishmael, seem to 
have been portioned off by their father in his life-time, and sent away to the 
east, that they might not interfere with Isaac. (4) Death. Abraham died, 
aged one hundred and seventy-five years, and was buried, by Isaac and 
Ishmael, in the cave of Machpelah. Gen. xxv. B. C. 1822. 

3. Character. In studying the life of Abraham one is deeply impressed 
with several beautiful traits of his character. Where, for example, do we 
find such an example of courteousness as Abraham furnishes for our imita- 
tion in hjs entertainment of the strangers in Mamre? How promptly he 
offers his hospitality; with what delicate regard for the feelings of lus 
guests would he make it appear that they will oblige him more by accepting 
than he does them by offering his hospitality. Gen. xviii, 3-5. Nor was 
Abraham’s generosity less apparent, so graciously shown, in his treatment 
of Lot. He insists neither upon the obligations due him as Lot’s adopted 
father nor his advanced age ; neither does he claim his rights under the 
promise of God to give him the land. He allows his nephew to have the 
first choice, uttering these noble words: “Let there be no strife, I pray 
thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; 
for we he brethren.” The tenderness of Abraham is no less remarkable than 
his other virtues. Aware of the sin of Sodom, his heart is stirred by the 
contemplation of its impending doom. As he patiently, earnestly pleads 
with the Lord to spare the wretched inhabitants, we are reminded of Him 
who wept over the Holy City, and cried, “ 0 Jerusalem, Jerusalem, how 
would I have gathered thy children, as a hen gathereth her chickens under 


ABSALOM. 


29 


her wings, but ye would not.” But it is as an example of faith tlint 
Abraham shines pre-eminent. How severe its tests — called to leave his 
country, and go he knew not where — to sojourn in the land of promise as 
in a strange country — to expect an heir when his wife was past age — he 
never wavers. This faith culminates on Moriah, where he is to slay his 
promised heir, but falters not, expecting, by reason of his faith, that God 
would from the ashes of sacrifice restore him his son., “ In Paul’s catalogue 
of immortals Abraham shines a star of greatest magnitude.” Yet Abraham 
had his failings, as who has not ? He trusted God to restore the life of his 
son, yet he did not trust him to protect the honor of his wife, and was thus 
twice led into falsehood. 

Difficulties.— (1) Sacrifice of Isaac. Some have found it difficult to reconcile 
God’s command to sacrifice Isaac with his prohibition of human sacrifices. Lev. 
xviii, 21 ; xx, 2. We answer, “ God’s design was not to secure a certain outward 
act, but a certain state of mind , a willingness to give up the beloved object to 
Jehovah.”— Haley. “ The divine command was given in such a form that Abra- 
ham could not understand it in any- other way than as requiring an outward 
burnt-offering, because there was no other way in which Abraham could accom- 
plish the complete surrender of Isaac than by an actual preparation for really of- 
fering the desired sacrifice.” (Keil, Commentary.) (2) Gen. xii, 5, states that Abra- 
ham “ went forth to go into the land of Canaan,” but Heb. xi, 8, that “ he went 
out, not knowing whither he went.” At first the name of the country was not 
revealed to him. It is designated simply as “ a land that I will show thee.” Gen. 
xii, 1. But even if the name “Canaan” had been mentioned at the outset, it 
might still be true that he went forth “not knowing whither he went.” For, in 
those days of slow transit, imperfect intercommunication, and meager geograph- 
ical knowledge, the mere name of a country several hundred miles distant would 
convey almost no idea of the country itself. (Haley.) 

AB'SALOM. — 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Abshalom ', Abish- 

alom ', Dife'QK, father of peace.) The third son of David, and his only one 

by Maaeah, the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur. 2 Sam. iii, 3. Born 
B. C. about 1053. 

2. Personal History. (1) Avenges Tamar. Absalom’s sister, Tamar, 
became the object of the lustful desire of Amnon, her half brother. David’s 
eldest son, and was violated by him. 2 Sam. xiii, 1-18. B. C. about 1032. 
According to Eastern notions the duty of avenging his sister’s wrong fell 
upon Absalom. He, therefore, took Tamar and kept her secluded in his 
own house, saying nothing to Amnon, “ neither good nor bad.” After two 
years had passed he found an opportunity for revenge. He then invited all 
liis brethren, including Amnon, to a great sheep-shearing at Baal-hazor, 
and, to lull suspicion, requested the presence of his father also. Amid the 
mirth of the feast, while they were warm with wine, the servants of Absa- 
lom, at a preconcerted signal, fell upon Amnon and slew him. 2 Sam. xiii, 
23-29. B. C. 1030. Absalom fled to his grandfather, Talmai, and remained 
there three years. Yers. 37, 38. (2) Return to Jerusalem. David, yearn- 

ing for his exiled son Absalom, (ver. 39,) yielded easily to the scheme 
of Joab, and permittted Absalom to return to Jerusalem, but not to ap- 
pear before him. B. C. 1027. Absalom dwelt for two whole years in Jeru- 
salem, and then sent for Joab, who refused to see him, until Absalom or- 
dered his servants to burn his (Joab’s) barley-field. Then Joab secured for 
him an interview with the king. 2 Sam. xiv. B. 0. 1027. (3) Preparations 

for revolt. But Absalom proved himself false and faithless. He secretly 
plotted a revolt., propitiating the populace by the beauty of his person and 


30 


ABSALOM. 


the magnificence of his surroundings, riding in a chariot with fifty outriders. 
He also fostered the discontent of the people by insinuations against his 
father’s justice. Other causes, doubtless, were favorable for Absalom : the 
affair of Bathsheba, the probable disaffection of Judah for being merged 
in one common Israel, and less attention on the part of David, through 
age, to individual complaints. 2 Sam. xv, 1-6. B. C. 1024. (4) Revolt. 

When the plot was ripe, Absalom sought and obtained leave to go to He- 
bron, to pay a vow wBich he had made at Geshur in case he should be per- 
mitted to return to Jerusalem. He had sent spies throughout all the tribes 
of Israel, summoning those favorable to his cause to assemble at Hebron, 
whither he went attended by two hundred unsuspecting adherents. 
2 Sam. xv, 7-11. B. C. 1023. His next step was to send for Ahithophel, 
David’s couriselor, aud secure his approval and advice, (2 Sam. xv, 12,) he 
being an oracle in Israel. 2 Sam. xvi, 23. (5) Entry into Jerusalem. When 

David heard the sad tidings of revolt he at once prepared for flight, and, 
leaving Jerusalem, repaired to Mahanaim, beyond Jordan. 2 Sam. xv, 13, sq. 
Absalom now entered Jerusalem, (2 Sam. xv, 37,) and, through the advice 
of Ahithophel, publicly took possession of the portion of his father’s harem 
left in the city. The motive in this latter act was the more unreserved 
support of the people, from the assurance that any reconcilement between 
Absalom and his father would hereafter be impossible. 2 Sam. xvi, 20-22. 
Absalom had already met Hushai, who had been sent to join him by David, 
that he might be instrumental in thwarting the counsels of Ahithophel. 
2 Sam. xv, 33-37 ; xvi, 16-19. A council of war was held to consider the 
course to be pursued against David. Ahithophel advised the immediate 
pursuit and death of the king — that one death would close the war. 
Hushai, to gain time for David, urged his skill and bravery, the number 
and might of his warriors, the possibility and disastrous consequences of 
defeat, and advised a general gathering against David, and the total anni- 
hilation of him and his followers. The advice was accepted by Absalom. 
Information was secretly sent to David, who then went beyond Jordan, 
and there collected force sufficient to oppose Absalom. 2 Sam. xvii, 1-14, 
2 1-24.- (6) Anointed king. Absalom was formal^ anointed king, (2 Sam. 
xix, 10,) appointed Amasa captain of his host, and crossed over Jordan in 
pursuit of his father. 2 Sam. xvii, 25, 26. A battle was fought in the wood 
of Ephraim. The army of Absalom was defeated, twenty thousand were 
slain, and a still greater number perished in the defiles of the forest. 
(7) Death. Absalom fled on a swift mule, and, riding through the forest, 
his long locks became entangled in the boughs of a great terebinth, (or 
oak,) and he was left suspended. Joab, being informed of this, hastened 
to the spot and slew him, notwithstanding David’s request that he should 
be spared. The body was taken down aud cast into a pit, over which the 
people raised a great heap of stones as a mark of abhorrence, a burial 
which the historian contrasts with the splendid monument prepared by Ab- 
salom for himself in the “ King’s Dale.” 2 Sam. xviii, 1-18. B. C. 1023. 
Absalom had three sons and one daughter, the latter named Tamar, 
(2 Sam. xiv, 27,) who alone survived him, (2 Sam. xviii, 18,) and became the 
mother of Maachah, the wife of Rehoboam. 2 Chron. xi, 20, 21. 

Difficulties.— (1) Weight of hair. “At every year’s end.” Literally, From 
the end of days to days ; that is, from time to time. Though Absalom’s hair was 
doubtless very heavy, and thus was considered beautiful, the weight given, 200 


ACHAICUS — AC II BOR. 


31 


shekels, is too much. There is evidently an error in the text, (Kell.) 2 Sam. xiv, 26. 
(2) After forty yeais. “ This is an error in the text, for David reigned but forty 
years in all, (1 Kings ii, 11,) and he certainly had reigned many years before Ab- 
salom’s rebellion. The Syriac and Arabic versions read four years , and with this 
agrees Josephus.” (Whedon, Commentary.) 

ACHA'ICUS, (G-r., an Achaean ,) a Christian of Corinth who had rendered 
Paul personal aid, and by him was kindly commended to the Corinthian 
church. 1 Cor. xvi, 17. A. D. 54. 

A'CHAN, (Heb. Akan\ w troubler ,) a son of Carmi, of the tribe of 

Judah; called also Achar. 1 Chron. ii, 7. 

Personal History. (1) Achan’s sin. By one incident of his life Achan 
attained a disgraceful notoriety. Jericho, before it was taken, was put 
under that awful ban, whereby all the inhabitants (excepting Rahab and 
her family) were devoted to destruction ; all the combustible goods to be 
burned, and the metals consecrated to God. Dent, vii, 16, 23-26 ; Josh, 
vi, 17—1 9. After Jericho fell, (B. C. 1451,) the whole nation kept the vow 
of devotement, with the exception of Achan. His covetousness made him 
unfaithful, and, the opportunity presenting, he took a goodly Babylonish gar- 
ment, two hundred shekels of silver, and an ingot-of gold of fifty shekels’ 
weight. Josh, vii, 21. (2) Result of Achan’s sin. Ai had been visited by 

spies, who declared that it could easily be taken. An expedition of three 
thousand men, sent against the city, was repulsed, and returned to Joshua, 
who inquired of the Lord concerning the cause of the disaster. The answer 
was that “Israel had sinned, ... for they have even taken of the ac- 
cursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also, and they have put 
it even among their own stuff.” Josh, vii, 11. This was the reason for 
Israel’s defeat; and Joshua was commanded to sanctify the people, and on 
the morrow to cast lots for the offender. Achan was chosen, and being 
exhorted by Joshua, made a confession of his guilt ; which was verified by 
the finding of the spoil in his tent. (3) Achan’s punishment. Achan was 
conveyed, with his family, property, and spoils, to the valley, (afterward 
called Achor, trouble ,) where they “ stoned him with stones, and burned 
them with lire.” Josh, vii, 25. 

Difficulties.— (1) Objection has been urged against the use of the lot to dis- 
cover the guilty party. We answer that the decision by lot, when ordered by 
God, involved no chance, but was under his special direct! n, as is evident from 
the expression, “Which the Lord taketh,” (Josh, vii, 14;) “The lot is cast into 
the lap, but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord.” Prov. xvi, 33. (2) The 
severity of the punishment of Achan, as regards his family, has excited consider- 
able comment. Some vindicate it by saying that Achan, by his sin, had fallen un- 
der the ban pronounced against Jericho, and was exposed to the same punishment 
as a town which had fallen away into idolatry, (Deut. xiii, 16, 17 ;) others believe 
that the family of Achan were privy to his crime, and therefore were deserving 
of a share in his punishment, (Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary;) others, again, 
consider it as the result of one of those sudden impulses of indiscriminate popular 
vengeance to which the Jewish people were exceedingly prone.— Kitto. 

A'CHAR, (Heb. Akar', nay, troubler,) another form of the name Achan-, 

and given to that person in 1 Chron. ii, 7. 

A'CHAZ, (Matt, i, 9,) elsewhere Ahaz, (q. v.) 

ACH'BOR, (Heb. Akbor', "lijDJJ, mouse , gnawing .) 

1. The father of Baal-lianan, the seventh Edomitish king mentioned in 
Gen. xxx vi, 38, 39. B. C. before 1450. 


32 


ACHIM— ADAH. 


2. The son of Micliaiali, and one of the courtiers whom Josiah sent to 
Huldah to inquire the course to be pursued respecting the newly discovered 
book of the law. 2 Kings xxii, 12, 14. B. C. 624. In the parallel passage 
(2 Cliron. xxxiv, 20) lie is called Abdon, the son of Micah. He is doubtless 
the same person whose son, Elnathan, was courtier of Jehoiakim. Jer. xxvi, 
22; xxxvi, 12. 

A'CHIM, (perhaps the same word as Jachin, whom God makes firm,) 
the son of Sadoc, and father of Eleazar, among the paternal ancestors of 
Christ. Matt, i, 14. B. C. after 410. 

A'CHISH, (Heb. Aids'll', perhaps angry,) probably a general title 

• T 

of royalty, like Abimelech, (q. v.,) another Philistine kingly name, with 
which, indeed, it is interchanged in the title of Psa. xxxiv. 

1. A Philistine king of Gath with whom David sought refuge from Saul. 
1 Sam. xxi, 10-15. The servants of Achish soon recognized David as the 
successful champion of Israel against Goliath, and he only escaped by pre- 
tending madness, “well knowing that the insane were held inviolable, as 
smitten but protected by the Deity.” ( History of Israelites, De Rothschild, in 
loco.) B. C. 1061. The same person is likely meant by Achish to whom 
David again repaired. Achish received him kindly, probably considering 
their common emnity against Saul as a strong bond of union. After living 
awhile at Gath, David received from Achish the town of Ziklag for a pos- 
session. 1 Sam. xxvii, 2-6. He made numerous forays against the neigh- 
boring nomads, which he persuaded Achish were as much in his interest as 
his own. 1 Sam. xxvii, 8-12. Achish still had great confidence in David, 
and he proposed making him chief of his body-guard. 1 Sam. xxviii, 1, 2. 
He took David and his men with him when he went up to the battle which 
sealed the fate of Saul, but was led to dismiss them by the jealousy and 
opposition of the Philistine leaders. Thus David was spared from partici- 
pating in the battle. 1 Sam. xxix, 2-11. B. C. about 1056. 

2. Another king of Gath, the son of Maachab, to whom two servants of 
Sliimei fled. Shimei went to reclaim them, and thus, by leaving Jerusalem, 
broke his parole and met his death. 1 Kings ii, 39, 40. B. C. 1011. 

ACH'SA, a less correct mode (1 Chron. ii, 49) of anglicizing the name 
Achsah, (q. v.) 

ACH'SAH, (Heb. Aksah HDpy, anklet) the name of Caleb’s daughter. 

1 Chron. ii, 49. Caleb offered her in marriage to the man who should 
capture the city of Debir. B. C. 1444. His own nephew, Othniel, won 
the prize, and on her way to her future home she asked of her father an 
addition to her dower of lands. She received the valley full of springs 
situated near to Debir. Her request was probably secured the more readily 
as it was considered ungracious to refuse a daughter under such circum- 
stances. Josh, xv, 16, 17 ; Judges i, 12, 13. 

A'DAH, (Heb. Adah', my, ornament , beauty) 

1. One of the two wives of Lamech, and mother of Jabel and Jubel. 
Gen. iv, 19-23. B. C. about 3875. 

2. Daughter of Elon the Hittite, the first of the three wives of Esau, 
and mother of Eliphaz. Gen. xxxvi, 2, 4, 10, 12, 16. B. C. about 1796. 
She is elsewhere (Gen. xxvi, 34) confounded with Bashemath. 


ADAIAH — ADAM. 


33 


ADA'IAH, (Heb. Adayah', nHJJ, whom Jehovah adorns.) 

1. A native of Boscatli, ( Bozkath, in the Valley of Judah, Josh, xv, 39.) 
and father of Jedidah, the mother of Josiah, king of Judah, (2 Kings 
xxii, 1,) the latter born B. C. 649. 

2. The son of Ethni and father of Zerah, of the Levitical family of 
Gershom, in the ancestry of Asaph, the celebrated musician. 1 Chron. vi, 41. 
Probably the same with Iddo. Ver. 21. B. C. about 1280. 

3. A son of Shimhi, and one of the chief Benjamites resident in Jerusa- 
lem before the captivity. 1 Chron. viii, 21. B. C. about 1400. 

4. A priest, son of Jeroham, who, after the return from Babylon, was 
employed in the work of the sanctuary. 1 Chron. ix, 12; Neh. xi, 12. B. C. 
about 536. 

5. Father of Maaseiah, who was one of the “ captains of hundreds ” 
during the protectorate of Jehoiada. 2 Chron. xxiii, 1. B. C. 878. 

6. A “ son of Bani,” an Israelite who divorced his Gentile wife after 
the captivity. Ezra x, 29. B. C. 456. 

7. Another of the sons of Bani (probably not the same Bani) who put away 
his Gentile wife. Ezra x, 39. B. C. 456. 

8. Son of Joiarib and father of Hazaiah, of the tribe of Judah, (Nell, xi, 5,) 
some of whose posterity dwelt in Jerusalem after the captivity. B. C. 445. 

ADA'liIAj (Heb. Adalya probably of Persian origin.) one of 

the ten sons of Haman, the enemy of the Jews. He was slain by the 
Jews under the royal edict at Shushan. Esth. ix, 8. B. C. about 509. 

AD' AM. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. D*]S, Adam red; hence Ad- 

amah , the ground .) The first man and “ son of God ” (Luke iii, 38) by 
„ special creation. The name which God gave him (Gen. v, 2) is founded 
upon the earthly side of his being : Adam from Adamah , earth, the earthly 
element, to guard him from self exaltation, not from the red color of his 
body, since this is not a distinctive characteristic of man, but common to 
him and to many other creatures. (Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary, ii, 7.) 

2. Personal History. (1) Creation. In the first nine chapters of Gen- 
esis there appear to be three distinct histories relating more or less to the 
life of Adam. The first (i, 1— ii, 3) records the creation ; the second (ii. 4-iv, 26) 
gives an account of paradise, the original sin of man, and the immediate 
posterity of Adam ; the third (v. 1-ix, 29) contains mainly the history of 
Noah, referring to Adam and his descendants principally in relation to that 
patriarch. “ The Almighty formed man of the dust of the earth, breathed 
into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul.” Chap, 
ii, 7. (2) In Eden. He gave him dominion over all the lower creatures, 

(chap, i, 26,) and placed him in Eden that he might cultivate it and enjoy 
its fruits. Chap, ii, 15, 16. The beasts of the field and the birds of the air 
were brought to Adam, who examined them and gave them names. This 
examination gave him an opportunity of developing his intellectual capac- 
ity, and also led to this result, that there was not found a helpmeet lor 
man. (3) Creation of Eve. “And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall 
upon Adam, and he slept; and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the 
flesh instead thereof. And the rib which the Lord God had taken from 
man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.” The design of 
God in the creation of the woman is perceived by Adam, when she is 


34 


ADBEEL. 


brought to him by God, and he said, “ This is now bone of my bone, and flesh 
of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of man.” 
Tims we find Adam appointed lord of the earth and its inhabitants, endowed 
with every thing requisite for the development of his nature and the ful- 
fillment of bis destiny. In the fruit of the trees he found sustenance ; in 
“the tree of life,” preservation from death; in “the tree of knowledge,” a 
positive law for the training of his moral nature; in the care of the gar- 
den, exercise of his physical strength ; in the animal and vegetable kingdom, 
a capacious region for the development of his intellect; and in the woman, 
a suitable companion and help. “ The first man was a true man, with the 
powers of a man and the innocence of a child.” (4) Fall. But Eve, hav- 
ing been beguiled by the Tempter to eat of the forbidden fruit, persuaded 
her husband to do the same. When called to judgment before God, Adam 
blamed his wife, who in turn blamed the tempter. God punished the 
tempter by degradation and dread, the woman by painful travail and sub- 
mission, (see Eve,) and the man by a life of labor. With the loss of inno- 
cence came a feeling of shame, and they sought to hide their nakedness 
with leaves, but were afterward taught of God to make clothing of the skins 
of animals. Adam and Eve were expelled from the garden, at the eastern 
side of which cherubim and a sword of flame turning every way were 
placed. The object of these were to guard the way of the tree of life, and 
prevent Adam’s return to it. Gen. iii. (5) Subsequent History. It is not 
known how long Adam lived in Eden, and therefore we cannot determine 
the length of his life after the expulsion. Shortly after leaving Eden, Eve 
gave birth to Cain. Gen. iv, 1. Scripture gives the names of only three 
sons of Adam, Cain, Abel, and Seth, but contains an allusion (Gen. v, 4) to 
“ sons and daughters.” He died B. C. 3074, aged 930 years. 

Difficulties.— Many questions of deep interest and of difficult solution arise in 
connection with our first parents. And yet it is wise for us to accept the script- 
ural account as a literal statement of facts, and dismiss the rationalistic theories 
and speculations to which it has given rise. (1) Antiquity of Man. The Script- 
ures teach that man has been in existence about sixty centuries, and his creation 
an act of the personal God. There are many who maintain a much greater an- 
tiquity for man, and his descent from the lower order of animals, and they from 
inorganic matter. Faith, however, against all this opposition, has no reason as 
yet to feel ashamed of its confession that in the creation of man, a new , a sepa- 
rate, word has here been spoken by the Almighty Creator. “ The descent of man 
from apes cannot be demonstrated, either from history, since nowhere is there a 
record that during thousands of years one beast has developed itself into a man ; 
or from natural science, since it cannot show the indispensable links by means of 
which the transition from beast to man is explicable.”— Van Oosterzee, Dog., vol. 
i, p.362. (2) Unity of tbe Human Race. This question has given rise to much 
discussion of late. “ Did the Almighty Creator produce only one man and one 
woman, from whom all other human beings are descended ? or did he create sev- 
eral human pairs, from whom distinct stocks of men have been derived ? ” De- 
litzsch has given this admirable summary of the proofs of unity : “ That the races 
of men are not species of one genus, but varieties of one species, is confirmed by 
the agreement in the physiological and pathological phenomena in them all, by 
the similarity in the anatomical structure, in the fundamental powers, traits of 
the mind, in the limits to the duration of life, in the normal temperature of the 
body, and the average rate of pulsation, in the duration of pregnancy, and in the 
unrestricted fruitfulness of marriages between the various races.”— Keil and De- 
li tzsch, Commentary , Gen. ii, 18-25. 

AD'BEEL, (Heb. Adbeel probably miracle of God,) tbe third- 

named of the twelve sons of Ishmael. Gen. xxv, 13 ; 1 Chron. i, 29. B. C. 
about 1300. 


ADDAN— ADLAI. 35 

AD'DAN, (Heb. Addan ,' another form (Ezra ii, 59) of the name 

(Neh. vii, 61) Addon, (q. v.) 

AD'DAR, (Heb. Addar ', "HX, threshing-floor , or wide, open place,) a son 

of Bela, and grandson of Benjamin, (1 Cliron. viii, 3,) elsewhere (Gen. xlvi, 21) 
called Ard. 

AD'DI, (for Heb. Adi, HK, ornament ,) the son of Cosam and father of 
Melchi, in the maternal ancestry of Jesus. Luke iii, 28. 

AD'DON, (Heb. Addon', }HX, master , or lord,) the name of the second of 

three persons (Neh. vii, 61) who, on returning from the captivity to Pales- 
tine, were unable to “show their father’s house, nor their seed, whether 
they were of Israel.” B. 0. 536. In Ezra ii, 59, he is called Addan. 
Ititto and others think this is the name of one of the places in the land of 
captivity from whicli persons returned to Palestine. 

A'DER, ( Heb. E'der. “HJf, a flock,) a chief Benjamite, son of Beriali, 
resident at Jerusalem. 1 Cliron. viii, 15. 

A'DIEL, (Heb. Adiel', ornament of God.) 

1. One of the family heads of the tribe of Simeon, who seem to have dis- 
possessed the aborigines of Gedor. 1 Cliron. iv, 36. B. C. about 711. 

2. A priest, son of Jahzerah and father of Maasiai, which last was very 
active in reconstructing the temple after the captivity. 1 Cliron. ix, 12. 
B. C. 536. 

3. The father of Azmaveth, which latter was treasurer under David. 
1 Chron. xxvii, 25. B. C. about 1015. 

A'DIN, (Heb. Adin', piy, effeminate.') 

1. The head of one of the Israelitish families, of which a large number 
returned with Zerubbabel to Jerusalem from Babylon. B. C. 536. The 
number is given, in Ezra ii, 15, as 454; in Neh. vii, 20, as 655 — the discrep- 
ancy being occasioned by an error in the hundreds and the including or 
excluding of himself. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v.) Fifty 
more of the family returned (with Ebed, the son of Jonathan) under Ezra. 
Ezra viii, 6. B. C. 457. 

2. One of those who sealed the covenant made by Nehemiah and the 
people after their return to Jerusalem. Neh. x, 16. B. C. about 445. 

AD'INA, (Heb. Adina', slender , delicate ,) the son of Shiza, a 

Reubenite, captain of thirty of his tribesmen — one of David’s mighty men. 
1 Chron. xi, 42. B. C. 1047. 

AD1NO, (Heb. Adino', injM the name given, in 2 Sam. xxiii, 8, as one 

of David’s mighty men. Much difference of opinion respecting it exists. 
Some think the passage has been corrupted. “ It is clear that these words 
‘ Adino the Eznite 1 are not proper names, although their grammatical con- 
si ruction is not verj' - easy.” (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v.) 
See also the parallel passage. 1 Cliron. xi, 11. 

AD'LAI, (Heb. Adlay ', ^“iy, just,) the father of Shaphat, which latter 

was a chief herdsman under David. 1 Chron. xxvii, 29. B. C. 1015. 

3 


36 


ADMATHA— ADONIJAH. 


AD 'MATH A, (Heb. Admatlwf, fctn£>“TN. perhaps earthy, dark- colored.) 

the third-named of the princes or courtiers of Ahasuerus. Esther i, 14. B. C. 
about 519. 

AD'NA, (Heb. Adna ' pleasure.) 

1. An Israelite of the family of Pahath-monb, who divorced his Gentile 
wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 30. B. C. 456. 

2. A chief priest, son of Harim, and contemporary with Joiakim. Neh. 
xii, 15. B. C. about 536. 

AD'NAH, (Heb. Adnahf, pleasure.) 

1. One of the captains of the tribe of Manasseh who joined David at 
Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 20. B. C. 1056. 

2. A warrior of the tribe of Judah, and principal general under Jehosha- 
phat. 2 Chron. xvii, 14. B. C. 912. 

ADONI'-BE'ZEK, (Heb. Adoni'-Be'zek , lord of Bezek.)V\x\ft, or 

lord of Bezek, a city of the Canaanites. He had subdued seventy of the 
petty kings around him, and, after having cut off their thumbs and great 
toes, compelled them to gather their food under his table. At the head of 
the Canaan ites and Perizzites he opposed the men of Judah and Simeon, 
and, being defeated, was served in the same manner as he had treated his 
own captives. B. C. about 1425. He died of his wounds at Jerusalem, 
whither he was carried by his captors. Judg. i, 5-7. 

ADONI'J AH, (Heb. Adoniyah ', rfOIN, my lord is Jehovah.) 

1. The fourth son of David and second by Haggith, born in Hebron while 
his father reigned over Judah only. 2 Sam. iii, 4. B. C. about 1053. Ac- 
cording to Oriental usages Adonijah might have considered his claim su- 
perior to that of his eldest brother, Amnon, who was born while his 
father was in a private station ; but not to that of Absalom, who was not 
only his elder brother, and born while his father was a king, but was of 
royal descent on the side of his mother. When Amnon and Absalom were 
dead, Adonijah became heir-apparent to the throne. But this order had 
been set aside in favor of Solomon, who was born while his father was 
king over all Israel. (1) Anointed king. Adonijah aspired to the throne, 
prepared a guard of chariots and horsemen and fifty foot-runners, and 
gained over to his side Joab and Abiathar, the priest. He was also a man of 
handsome appearance and likely to win the people. Waiting nntil David 
seemed to be at the point of death, he called around him his brothers (ex- 
cepting Solomon) and other influential men, and was proclaimed king at 
Zoheleth. The plot was defeated by the prompt action of the aged king, 
who, through the influence of Nathan and Bathsheba, caused Solomon to be 
proclaimed king and to be anointed by Zadok, the priest. (2) Pardoned. 
Adonijah fled for refuge to the altar, which he refused to leave until par- 
doned by Solomon. He received pardon, but was told that a future at- 
tempt of the same kind would be fatal to him. 1 Kings i, 5-53. B. C. 1015. 
(3) Death. Some time after David’s death he covertly asserted his claim 
in asking for Abishag (the virgin widow of his father, q. v.) in marriage. 
Adonijah was immediately put to death by the order of Solomon. 1 Kings 
ii, 23-25. B. C. 1014. The execution of Adonijah by Solomon must not 


ADONIKAM — ADORAM. 


37 


be judged of by the standards of the present day. According to the custom 
of Eastern princes, a thousand years before Christ, Solomon would probably 
have slain all his brothers upon ascending the throne, whereas we learn of 
the death of Adonijah alone, and that only after his second treasonable 
attempt. 

2. One of the Levites sent by King Jehoshaphat to assist in teaching the 
law to the people of Judah. 2 Chron. xvii, 8. B. C. 912. 

3. A chief Israelite after the captivity, (Neh. x, 16,) probably the same 
elsewhere (Ezra ii, 13; viii, 13 ; Nell, vii, 18) called Adonikam, (q. v.) 

ADONI'KAM, many ADON'IKAM, (Heb. Adonikam ', Dp'JiK, whom 

the Lord sets up , or lord of the enemy,) one whose descendants, to the 
number of 666, returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 13. B. C. 
536, He himself is included in Neh. vii, 18. Somewhat later three of his 
immediate descendants, with 60 male followers, came with Ezra. Ezra * 
viii, 13. B. C. 445. He appears (from the identity of the associated names) 
to have been the Adonijah who joined in the religious covenant of Nehemiah. 
Neh. x, 16. 

ADONI'RAM, (Heb. Adoniram', lord of height , that is, high lord,) 

the son of Abda, and receiver-general of the imposts in the reigns of David, 
Solomon, and Rehoboam. 1 Kings iv, 6. During his extended term of office he 
rendered both himself and the tribute so odious to the people, in sustaining 
the immense public works of Solomon, that when Rehoboam rashly sent him 
to enforce the collection of the taxes the exasperated populace rose upon 
him and stoned him to death. This was the signal for the revolt under 
Jeroboam. 1 Kings xii, 18. B. C. 975. Adoniram is called, by contraction, 
Adoram (2 Sam. xx, 24; 1 Kings xii, 18) and Hadoram. 2 Chron. x, 18. 

ADON'I-ZE'DEK, (Heb. Adoni' -Tse' dek, p*TC’ , oiK, lord, of justice, that 

is, just lord,) the king of Jerusalem when the Israelites invaded Palestine. 
Josh, x, 1. B. C. 1451. After Jericho and Ai were taken, and the Giheon* 
ites had succeeded in forming a treaty with the Israelites, Adonizedek in- 
duced the Amorite kings of Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon to 
join him in a confederacy against the enemy. They began operations by 
besieging the Gribeonites, who sent to Joshua for help. Joshua marched 
all night from G-ilgal, and, falling unexpectedly upon the besiegers, put 
them to utter rout. The five kings took refuge in a cave at Makkedah, but 
were detected, and the cave’s mouth was closed by placing huge stones 
against it. When the Israelites returned from the pursuit the cave was 
opened and the kings taken out. The chief men of Israel then set their feet 
upon the necks of the prostrate monarchs — an ancient mark of triumph. 
The five kings were then slain, and their bodies hung on trees until even- 
ing, when, as the la<v forbade a longer exposure of the dead, (Deut. xxi, 23,) 
they were taken down and cast into the cave, the mouth of which was filled 
up with large stones, which remained long after. Josh, x, 1-27. In con- 
sidering the severe treatment of these kings we must remember that the war 
was one of extermination, and that the war usage of the Jews was neither 
better nor worse than those of the people with whom they fought. (Kitto.) 

ADO'RAM, (Heb. Adoram ', DYltf,) an officer in charge of the tribute, 

(2 Sam. xx, 24 ; 1 Kings xii, 18,) elsewhere called Adoniram, (q. v.) 


38 


ADRAMMELECH — AGAG. 


ADR AM'ME LECH, (Heb. Adramme'lek, glory of the king ,) a 

son of Sennacherib, king of Assyria. The king was dwelling at Nineveh 
after his disastrous expedition against Hezekiah. While worshiping in the 
house of Nisroch, his god, he was murdered by Adrammelecli and his 
brother Shareza. B. C. 709. Having accomplished the crime, the two 
brothers tied into Armenia. 2 Kings xix, 36, 37. 

A'DRIEL, (Heb. Adriel, flock of God,) a son of Barzillai the 

Meholathite. Saul gave to him in marriage his daughter Merab, who had 
been promised to David. 1 Sam. xviii, 17-19. B. C. 1063. His five sons 
were among the seven descendants of Saul whom David surrendered to the 
Gibeonites (2 Sam. xxi, 8) in satisfaction for the endeavors of Saul to 
extirpate them, although a league had been made between them and the 
Israelites. Josh, ix, 15. In 2 Sam. xxi, 8, the name of Michal occurs as the 
mother of these sons of Adrial. In explanation, see Michal. 

AG' ABUS, (Gr. Ag'abos , locust, or to love,) a prophet, supposed to have 
been one of the seventy disciples of Christ. He with others came from 
Jerusalem to Antioch while Paul and Barnabas were there, and predicted 
an approaching famine, which actually occurred the following year. The 
expression “ throughout all the world ” was probably used in a national 
sense, and by it Judea was probably meant, and the words must be under- 
stood to apply to that famine which, in the fourth year of Claudius, over- 
spread Palestine. The poor Jews in general were then relieved by the 
queen of Adiabne, who sent to Egypt to purchase corn for them. Josephus, 
Ant., xx, 2, 5; 5, 2. For the relief of the Christians in Judea contributions 
were raised by their brethren in Antioch, and taken to Jerusalem by Paul 
and Barnabas. Acts xi, 28-30. Many years after, this same Agabus met 
Paul at Cesarea, and warned him of the sufferings which awaited him if 
he prosecuted his journey to Jerusalem. Acts xxi, 10-12. Agabus took 
the girdle of St. Paul, and fastened it round his own hands and feet, and 
said, “ Thus saith the Holy Ghost: so shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind 
the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the 
Gentiles.”. 

A'GAG, (Heb. Agag', flame,) probably a common name of all the 

Amalekite kings, like Pharaoh in Egypt, etc. 

1. The king, apparently, of one of the hostile neighboring nations at the 
time of the Exode. B. C. 1452. He is referred to by Balaaam (Num. xxiv, 
7) in a manner implying that the king of the Amalekites was, then at least, 
a great monarch, and his people a greater people, than is commonly imag- 
ined. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Gyclopcedia, s. v.) 

2. The king of the Amalekites who, being taken prisoner by Saul, was 
spared by him, contrary to the solemn vow of devotement to destruction 
whereby the nation, as such, had of old precluded itself from giving any 
quarter to that people. Exod. xvii, 14; Deut. xxv, 19. When Samuel came 
to the camp of Saul he chided him and told him of his rejection, and ordered 
Agag to be brought to him. Agag came “ delicately,” that is, in a joyous 
state of mind, thinking that his life would still be spared to him. (Keil 
and Delitzsch, in loc.) But the prophet ordered him to be cut in pieces; 
and in the expression which he employed — “As thy sword hath made 


AGAR— AHAB. 


39 


women childless, so shalt thy mother be childless among women ” — indi- 
cates that, apart from the obligations of the vow, some such example of 
retributive justice was intended as had been exercised in the case of Adoni- 
bezek, (q. v.) Perhaps Agag had treated prisoners in the same way lie 
was now treated by Samuel. 1 Sam. xv, 8-33. B. 0. 1079. (Kitto, s. v.) 
See Samuel. 

A'GAR, a Greek form (Gal. iv, 24, 25) of the name Hagar, (q. v.) 

AG'EE, (Heb. Age , fcOX, fugitive ,) a Hararite, father of Shammah, which 
latter was one of David’s chief warriors. 2 Sam. xxiii, 11. B. C. 1018. 

AGRIP'PA, (signification unknown,) the name of two of the members 
of the Herodian family. See Herod. 

A'GUR, (Heb. Agw J , gatherer ,) the author of the sayings contained 

in Prov. xxx, which the inscription describes as composed of the precepts 
delivered by “ Agur the son of Jakeh.” Bej r ond this Svery thing iliat lias 
been stated of him, and of the time in which he lived, is pure conjecture. 
(Kitto, s. v.) 

A'HAB, (Heb. Achab ', 2Kru>5, father's brother.) 

1. The son of Omri, eighth king of Israel, and second of the dynasty of 
Omri, succeeded his father in the 38th year of Asa, king of Judah, and 
reigned twenty-two years in Samaria, B. C. 918-897. His wife was Jeze- 
bel, a heathen princess, daughter of Ethbaal, king of Zidon. (1) Idolatry. 
Jezebel was a decided and energetic character, and soon acquired complete 
control over her husband, so that he eventually established the worship of 
the Phenieian idols, and especially of the sun-god Baal. Ahab built him a 
temple and an altar in Samaria, and made a grove for the impure orgies 
of the goddess Ashtoreth. 1 Kings xvi, 29-33. So strong was the tide of 
corruption that it appeared as if the knowledge of the true God would be 
lost among the Israelites. But a man suited to this emergency was raised 
up iu the person of Elijah, (I Kings xviii,) who opposed the royal power, 
and succeeded in retaining many of his countrymen in the worship of the 
true God. See Elijah. Ahab had a taste for splendid architecture, which 
he indulged by building an ivory house and several cities. 1 Kings xxii, 
39. He erected his royal residence at Jezreel, in the plain of Esdraelon, 
still keeping Samaria as capital of his kingdom. (2) Death of Naboth. 
Refused a neighboring vineyard, which he desired to add to his pleasure- 
grounds, Ahab, through the influence of Jezebel, caused its proprietor, 
Naboth, to be put to death on a false charge of blasphemy. For this crime 
Elijah prophesied the total extinction of the house of Ahab. The execu- 
tion of the sentence was delayed in consequence of Ahab’s repentance. 
1 Kings xxi. B. C. 899. (3) Wars. Ahab undertook three campaigns 

against Benhadad II., king of Damascus, two defensive and one offensive. 
In the first Benhadad had laid siege to Samaria, and Ahab, encouraged by 
God’s prophets, made a sudden attack upon him while at a banquet, and totally 
routed the Syrians. Benhadad was the next year again defeated by Ahab, 
who spared his life and released him on condition of restoring the cities of 
Israel he had held, and allowing Ahab certain commercial and political 
privileges. 1 Kings xx, 34. For three years Ahab enjoyed peace, when, 
with Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, he attacked Ramoth in Gilead. Michaiah 


40 


AHARAH — AHASUERUS. 


told Ahab that the expedition would fail. The prophet was imprisoned for 
giving this warning, but Ahab was so impressed that he took the precau- 
tion of disguising himself when he went into battle. (4) Death. He was 
slain by a man who “ drew a bow at a venture,” and although stayed up in 
his chariot for a time he died at even, and his army was dispersed. 1 Kings 
xxii. When he was brought to be buried in Samaria, the dogs licked up 
his blood as a servant was washing his chariot, thus fulfilling the prophecy 
of Elijah. 1 Kings xxi, 19. 

2. A false prophet who deceived the Israelites at Babylon, and was 
threatened by Jeremiah, who foretold that he should be put to death by the 
king of Babylon, in the presence of those whom he had beguiled ; and 
that in following times it should become a common malediction to saj r , 
“ The Lord make thee like Zedekiah and like Ahab, whom the king of 
Babylon roasted in the fire.” Jer. xxix, 21, 22. B. C. 606. (Kitto.) 

AHARAH, ( Achrach ', rtlPlX, after the brother ,) the third son of Ben- 
jamin, (1 Chron. viii, 1;) elsewhere called Ehi, (Gen. xlvi, 21,) Ahiram, 
(Num. xxvi, 38,) and Auer. I Chron. vii, 12. 

AHAR'HEL, (Heb. AcharcheV , £>ITinK, behind the breastwork ,) a son of 

Harum, whose families are named among the lineage of Coz, a descendant 
of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 8. B. C. 1300. 

AHAS'AI, (Heb. Achzay',' fnx, perhaps a prolonged form of Ahaz, pos- 
sessor , or contracted form of Ahaziah , whom Jehovah holds,) a grandson of 
lmmer, and one whose descendants dwelt in Jerusalem after the return 
from Babylon. Neh. xi, 13. Gesenius thinks him the same with Jahzerah, 
(q. v.,) who is made the grandson of lmmer. 1 Chron. ix, 12. 

AHAS'BAI, (Heb. Achasbay', '3D PIN, I take refuge in Jehovah — Gese- 

~ : : 

nius,) a Maachathite, father of Eliphelet, one of David’s warriors. 2 Sam. 
xxiii, 34. In 1 Chron. xi, 35, he is apparently called Ur, (q. v.) 

AHASUE'RUS, (Heb. Achashverosh, probably Lion king,) the 

title of three Median and Persian monarchs mentioned in the Bible. 

1. The Persian king to whom the enemies of the Jews sent an accusa- 
tion against them, the result of which is not mentioned. Ezra iv, 6. lie 
was probably Cambyses, son of Cyrus, who came to the throne B. C. 529, 
and died after a reign of seven years and five months. 

2. The Persian king mentioned in the Book of Esther. He is probably 
identical with Xerxes, whose regal state and affairs tally with all that is here 
said of Ahasuerus. His kingdom was very extensive, extending from India 
even unto Ethiopia. Esther i, 1. (1) Divorces Vashti. In the third year of 
his reign, B. C. 519, he made a sumptuous banquet for his nobility, and 
prolonged the feast for one hundred and eighty days. On one occasion, 
being partially intoxicated, he ordered Vashti, his wife, to be brought be- 
fore him, that he might exhibit her beauty to his courtiers. She, however, 
refused to appear ; for, in fact, it was contrary to Persian etiquette as well 
as to female propriety. Thereupon Ahasuerus indignantly divorced her, and 
published a royal decree asserting the superiority of husbands over their 
wives. (2) Marries Esther. In the seventh year of his reign (chap, ii, 16) 
he married Esther, the beautiful Jewess, who, however, concealed her 


AHAZ. 


41 


parentage. (3) Hainan’s plot. His prime minister, Haman, was enraged 
with Mordecai, the Jew, because he did not do him reverence; and, in the 
twelfth year of the king’s reign, offered him 10,000 talents of silver for the 
privilege of ordering a general massacre of the Jews in the kingdom on an 
appointed day. The king refused the money, but granted the request. 
Couriers were dispatched to the most distant parts of the realm to order the 
execution of the decree. Mordecai immediately sent word to Esther of the 
impending danger, and, through her intercession, the decree was so far 
annulled as to empower the Jews to defend themselves against their ene- 
mies. Ahasuerus disgraced and hanged Haman and his ten sons, (chap, 
vii, 10 ; ix, 14,) and made Mordecai his prime minister. Chap, x, 3. 
(4) Identity. The following evidence is in favor of the identity of Ahas- 
uerus and Xerxes. (1) In the third year of the reign of Xerxes was held 
an assembly to arrange the Grecian war ; in the third year of Ahasuerus 
was held a great feast and assembty in Shushan, the palace. (2) In the 
seventh year of his reign Xerxes returned defeated from Greece, and con- 
soled himself in the pleasures of his harem ; in the seventh year of his 
reign u fair young virgins were sought” for Ahasuerus, and he replaced 
Vashti by marrying Esther. 

3. The father of Darius, the Mede. Dan. ix, 1. It is generally agreed that 
the person here referred to is the Astyages of profane history, but some 
identify him with Cyaxeres. 

A'HAZ, (Heb. Achaz', fnX, possessor.) 

1. The twelfth king of the separate kingdom of Judah, being the son and 
successor of Jotham. Personal History. He reigned sixteen years, 
(according to some authorities, two years as viceroy.) B. C. 742-726. 

(1) Wars. At the time of his accession Pekah, king of Israel, and Rezin, 
king of Syria, were in league against Judah. They proceeded to lay siege 
to Jerusalem, intending to place on the throne Ben-TabeaL, probably a Syr- 
ian noble. Isa. vii, 6. Isaiah hastened to announce to him the destruction 
of the allied monarehs, who failed in their attack upon Jerusalem, although 
they inflicted serious damage on him elsewhere. Rezin, king of Syria, capt- 
ured Elath, (2 Kings xvi, 6 ;) Zichri, an Ephraimite, slew the king’s son, the 
governor of his house and his prime minister ; and Pekah, king of Israel, 
gained a great advantage over him in a battle in Judah, killing 120,000 
men, and taking captive 200,000 of his people. These, however, were re- 
turned through the remonstrance of the prophet Oded. 2 Chron. xxviii, 6-15. 

(2) Becomes a vassal. In his extremity Ahaz applied to Tiglath-pilezer, 
king of Assyria, for assistance, who freed him from his most formidable 
enemies by invading Syria, taking Damascus, and killing Rezin. He pur- 
chased this help at great cost, becoming tributary to Tiglath-pilezer. He 
sent him the treasures of the temple and of his own palace, and even ap- 
peared before him at Damascus as his vassal. (3) Idolatry. While he was 
there his idolatrous propensities induced him to take the pattern of a hea- 
then altar and have one like it built in Jerusalem. Upon his return he 
offered upon the altar, closed the temple, removed its sacred utensils, and 
raised shrines to heathen deities every- where. (4) Death. He died unla- 
ment d, aud his body was not deposited in the sacred sepulchers. Vers. 16-27. 

Difficulty. — In 2 Kiners xvi, 2, the age of Ahaz, at his accession, is given as 
twenty years. This probably refers to some earlier viceroysbip, otherwise he 


42 


AHAZIAH — AHER. 


would have been only eleven years old at the birth of his son Hezekiah. Compare 
2 Kings xvi, 2, 20 ; xviii, 2. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v. ; Cox, 
Sacred History.) 

2. A great-grandson of Jonathan, son of King Saul, being one of the four 
sons of Micah, and father of Jehoadah or Jarah. 1 Chron. viii, 35, 36 ; ix, 42. 

AHAZI'AH, (Heb. Achazyah n'TnX, held by Jehovah.) 

1. The son of Ahab, king of Israel, whom he succeeded in every sense, 
being as completely under the control of Jezebel and idolatry as was liis 
father. 1 Kings xxii, 51-53. He was the ninth king of Israel, and reigned 
two years, (897, 896.) The most signal public event of his reign was the 
revolt of the vassal king of the Moabites, who took the opportunity of the 
defeat and death of Moab to discontinue the tribute which he bad paid to 
the Israelites, consisting of 100,000 lambs, and as many rams with their wool. 
2 Kings i, 1 ; iii, 4, 5. Ahaziah became a party with Jehoshaphat to revive 
the maritime traffic of the Red Sea. Because of this alliance God was dis- 
pleased with Jehoshaphat, the vessels were destroyed, and the enterprise 
blasted. 2 Chron. xx, 35-37. Soon after Ahaziah was injured by falling 
from the roof-gallery of his palace in Samaria, (the “ lattice ” of the text prob- 
ably meaning a balustrade to keep persons from falling.) He sent to inquire 
of Baal-zebub, the idol of Ekron, what should be the result of his injury. 
But the messengers were met and sent back by Elijah, who announced that 
he should rise no more from the bed upon which he lay. He died shortly 
after, and was succeeded by his brother Jehoram. 2 Kings i, 17; iii, 1. 

2. The son of Jehoram by Athaliah, and sixth king of Judah. B. C. 
895-884. He is also called Jehoahaz (2 Chron. xxi, 1 7 ; xxv, 23) and 
Azariah. 2 Chron. xxii, 6. He followed the example of his father-in-law, 
Ahab, and was given to idolatry. 2 Kings viii, 25-27 ; 2 Chron. xxii, 1-4. 
He joined his uncle, Jehoram, of Israel, in an expedition against Hazael, 
king of Syria, which proved disastrous. The king of Israel was wounded, 
and Ahaziah visited him in Jezreel. During this visit Jehu was secretly 
anointed king of Israel, and conspired against Jehoram. The two kings 
rode out in their several chariots to meet Jehu, and when Jehoram was 
shot through the heart, Ahaziah attempted to escape, but was pursued as 
far as the pass of Gur, and being there mortally wounded, had only strength 
to reach Megiddo, where he died. His body was conveyed by his servants 
to Jerusalem for burial. 2 Kings ix, 1-28. 

Difficulties.— In 2 Kings viii, 26, Ahaziah is said to have been twenty-two 
years old when he began to reign ; but in 2 Chron. xxii, 2, his age is stated to be 
forty-two years. The former is undoubtedly correct, as in 2 Chron. xxi, 5, 20, we 
see that his father was forty when he died, which would have made him younger 
than his son. 2 Chron. xxii, 7-9, informs us that “ the destruction of Ahaziah was 
of God,” since, by fraternizing with the house of Ahab, he was included in the 
commission given to Jehu to root them out. 

AH'BAN, (Heb. Acliban ', |2rtX. brother of the wise,) the first-named of 

the two sons of Abishur by Abihail, of the descendants of Judah. 1 Chron. 
ii, 29. B. C. about 147 1 . 

A'HER, (Heb. Acher', “inK, after,) a descendant of Benjamin, (1 Chron. 

vii, 12;) probably the same person as Ahiram. Num. xxvi, 38. Some 
translators consider it as not a proper name at all, and render it literally 

auother.” (Smith, Dictionary , 5. v.) 


AHI — AHIHUD. 


43 


A'HI, (Heb. A chi', ipIX, my brother.) 

1. A eon of Abdiel, and chieftain of the tribe of Gad, resident in Bashan. 
1 Cliron. v, 15. 

2. The first-named of the four sons of Shamer, a chieftain of the tribo of 
Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 34. 

AHI' AH, (Heb. Achijah n s riN, brother , that is, friend of Jehovah , 

another mode of Anglicising the name Ahijah.) 

1. The son of Ahitub, and high-priest in the reign of Saul. 1 Sam. xiv, 
3, 18. B. 0. about 1087. He is here described as being “the Lord’s priest 
in Shiloh, wearing an ephod.” In chap, xiv, 18, it appears that the ark was 
under his care. There is some difficulty in reconciling this with the state- 
ment (1 Chron. xiii, 3) that they inquired not at the ark in the days of Saul. 
Some avoid the difficulty by inserting “ephod” for “ark.” (Keil and De- 
litzsch, in loco.) Others, by interpreting the ark, in this case, to mean a 
chest for carrying about the ephod in. Others apply the expression only to 
all the latter years of the reign of Saul, when we know that the priestly 
establishment was at Nob, and not at Kirjath-jearim, where the ark was. 
But probably the last time that Ahiah inquired of the Lord before the ark 
was on the occasion related in 1 Sam. xiv, 36, when Saul marred his victory 
over the Philistines by his rash oath, which nearly cost Jonathan his life. 
But God returned no answer in consequence, as it seems, of Saul’s rash 
curse. If, as is commonly supposed, Ahiah is the same person as Ahiui- 
elech, this failure to obtain an answer may have led to an estrangement be- 
tween the king and the high-priest, and predisposed him to suspect Ahim- 
eleclds loyalty, and to take that terrible revenge upon him for his favor to 
David. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia , s. v.) Gesenius supposes 
( Thes . Heb., p. 65,) that Ahimelech may have been a brother to Ahiah, and 
that they officiated simultaneously, the one at Gibeah, or Kirjath-jearim, and 
the other at Nob. (Smith.) 

2. Son of Shisha, and secretary of King Solomon. 1 Kings iv, 3. B. C. 1014. 

3. One of the sons of Bela, son of Benjamin, (1 Chron. viii, 7,) elsewhere 
(ver. 4) called Ahoah, (q. v.) 

AHI' AM, (Heb. Achiarn DN'ntf, perhaps for Achiab', father's brother,) 

a son of Sharar, the Hararite, and one of David’s thirty heroes. 2 Sam. 
xxiii, 33 ; 1 Chron. xi, 35. B. C. 1047. 

AHI' AN, (Heb. Achyan ', pnx, brotherly ,) the first-named of the four 

sons ofShemidah, of the tribe of Manasseh. 1 Chron. vii, 19. B. C. about 1444. 
AHLEj'ZER, (Heb. Achiezer ', -lTJPnK, brother of help , that is, helpful.) 

1. The son of Ammishaddai, and chief of the tribe of Dan when the peo- 
ple were numbered at Sinai. Num. i, 12. B. C. 1490. He made an offer- 
ing for the service of the tabernacle, like the other chiefs. Num. vii, 66. 

2. The chief of the Benjamite warriors who joined David at Ziklag. 
1 Chron. xii, 3. B. C. 1058. 

AHI'HUD. 

1. (Heb. Achihud ', “PiTnK, brother of renown .) The son of Shelomi, and 

prince of the tribe of Asher. He was one of those appointed by Moses to 
oversee the partition of Canaan. Num. xxxiv, 27. B. C. 1452. 


44 


AHIJAH — AHIMAAZ. 


2. (Heb. Achichud ', ‘irpnX, brother of union,) the second -named of the 
two latter sons of Bela, the son of Benjamin. 1 Chron. viii, 7. 

AHI'JAH, (Heb. Achiyah', n s ntf, brother of Jehovah.) 

1. A prophet of Shiloh, (1 Kings xiv, 2,) and hence called the Shilomite. 
Chap, xi, 29. There are two remarkable prophecies of him extant ; the one 
in 1 Kings xi, 31-39, addressed to Jeroboam, B. C. 980. In this he fore- 
told the rending of the kingdom of Solomon, in punishment for his idola- 
tries, and the transference of ten tribes after his death to Jeroboam. Solo- 
mon, hearing of this prophecy, sought to kill Jeroboam, who fled to Shishak, 
king of Egypt, and remained there until Solomon’s death. The other 
prophecy (1 Kings xiv, 6-16) was delivered to the wife of Jeroboam, who 
came to him in disguise (B. C. 956) to inquire concerning the king’s son, 
who was sick. In this he foretold the death of the son, the destruction of 
Jeroboam’s house on account of the images he had setup, and the captivity 
of Israel. In 2 Chron. ix, 29, reference is made to a record of the events 
of Solomon’s reign contained in the “prophecy of Ahijah the Shilomite.” 

2. An Israelite of the tribe of Issachar, father of Baasha, king of Israel. 
1 Kings xv, 27. B. C. before 953. 

3. The last-named of the five sons of Jerahmeel by his first wife. 1 Chron. 
ii, 25. B. C. about 1471. 

4. A Pelonite, one of David’s famous heroes, (1 Chron. xi, 36,) apparent- 
ly the same called Kliam, (q. v.,) the son of Ahithophel the Gilonite in the 
parallel passage. 2 Sam. xxiii, 34. 

5. A Levite appointed, in the arrangement by David, over the sacred 
treasury of dedicated things at the temple. 1 Chron. xxvi, 20. B. C. 1015. 

6. One of those who subscribed the covenant, drawn up by Nehemiuh, 
to serve the Lord. Neh. x, 26. B. C. 445. 

AHI'KAM, (Heb. Achikamf , Dp'HX, brother of support , that is, helper ; 

according to Gesenius, brother of the enemy,) one of the four persons sent 
by King Josiali to inquire of the prophetess Huldah concerning the proper 
course to be pursued in relation to the acknowledged violations of the 
newly-discovered book of the law. 2 Kings xxii, 12-14; 2 Chron. xxxiv, 20. 
B. C. 624. He afterward protected the prophet Jeremiah from the perse- 
cuting fury of Jehoiakim. Jer. xxvi, 24. B. C. about 609. His son, Geda- 
liah, showed Jeremiah a like kindness. Jer. xxxix, 14. He was the son of 
Shaphan, and father of Gedaliah, the viceroy of Judea after the capture of 
Jerusalem by the Babylonians. 2 Kings xxv, 22 ; Jer. xl, 5-16. 

AHFLUD, (Heb. Achilud', brother of one born,) father of Je- 

hoshaphat, recorder under David and Solomon, (2 Sam. viii, 16; xx, 24; 
1 Kings iv, 3,) and also of Baaua, one of Solomon’s purveyors. 1 Bangs iv, 12. 
B. C. 1014. 

AHIM'AAZ, (Heb. Achima'ats , brother of anger.) 

1. The father of Ahinoam, wife of King Saul. 1 Sam. xiv, 50. B. C. ante 
1087. 

2. The son and successor of Zadok (1 Chron. vi, 8, 53) in the high- 
priesthood. When Absalom revolted, David refused to allow the ark to be 
removed from Jerusalem, believing that God would bring him back to the 


AHIMAN — AHIMELECH. 


45 


city. The high-priests, Zadok and Abiathar, necessarily remained in attend- 
ance npon it; but their sons, Ahimaaz and Jonathan, concealed themselves 
outside the city to be in readiness to bear off to David any important move- 
ments and designs of Absalom which they might receive from within. 
When, therefore, Hushai informed the priests that Absalom had preferred 
his own counsel to that of Ahithophel, they sent word to Ahimaaz and Jona- 
than by a girl, doubtless to avoid suspicion. A lad saw the transaction 
and informed Absalom, who dispatched servants after them. They were 
hid by a woman in a dry well, the mouth of which was covered and strewn 
over with corn. She told the pursuers that the messengers had passed on 
in haste, and when all was safe released them, and they made their way to 
David. 2 Sam. xv, 24-27 ; xvii, 15-22. B. 0. 1023. After the death of 
Absalom, Ahimaaz prevailed upon Joab to let him run after the Cushite 
who had been sent to inform David. He outstripped him, being doubtless 
swift of foot and taking another route, and proceeded to break the news 
gently to David, telling him at first only of the victory. While speaking 
the Cushite entered and bluntly revealed the truth. The estimate in which 
he was held by David is shown in his answer to the watchman who an- 
nounced his coming, “ He is a good man, and cometh with good tidings.” 
2 Sam. xviii, 19-32. 

3. Solomon’s purveyor in Naphtali, who married Basmath, daughter of 
Solomon. 1 Kings iv, 15. B. C. 1014. 

AHFMAN, (Heb. Achiman ', |p\nX, brother of a gift , that is, liberal.) 

1. One of the three famous giants of the race of Anak, who dwelt at 
Hebron when the Hebrew spies explored the land, (Num. xiii, 22; B. C. 
1490,) and who (or their descendants) were afterward expelled by Caleb, 
(Josh, xv, 14; B. C. 1444,) and eventually slain by the Judaites. Judg. i, 10. 
B. C. 1425. 

2. A Levite who was one of the porters (wardens) of the temple. 1 Chron. 
ix, 17. 

AHIM'ELECH, (Heb. Achime'lek, TJ^DTIK brother of the king.) 

1. High-priest of the Jews, son of Ahitub (1 Sam. xxii, 16) and father of 
Abiathar, (1 Sam. xxii, 20,) probably the same with Ahiah, (q. v.) He 
was a descendant of the line of Ithamar through Eli. 1 Chron. xxiv, 3, 6. 
Josephus, Ant., v, 11, 5; viii, 1, 3. When David fled from Saul, (B. C. 
1062,) he went to Nob, where the tabernacle then was. His unexpected 
appearance alarmed Ahimelech, whose anxious inquiry was answered by 
David’s falsehood, “ The king hath commanded me a business.” Under thi3 
pretext Ahimelech was induced to give him bread and the sword of Go- 
liath. 1 Sam. xxi, 1-9. A servant of Saul, Doeg, an Edomite, witnessed 
the transaction, and informed King Saul, who immediately sent for Ahime- 
lech and the other priests then at Nob, and charged them with treason. 
But they declared their ignorance of any hostile designs on the part of 
David. This, however, availed them nothing, for the king ordered his 
guard to slay them. Upon their refusing to do so, he commanded Doeg, 
who slew the priests, eighty-five in number. He then marched to Nob 
and put to the sword every thing it contained. 1 Sam. xxii, 9-20. The 
only priest that escaped was Abiathar, Ahimelech’s son, who fled to Da- 
vid, and afterward became high-priest. 1 Sam. xxiii, 6; xxx, 7. The names 


46 


AHIMOTH— AHISHAHAR. 


in 2 Sam. viii, 17, and 1 Chron. xxiv, 6, are commonly regarded as having 
been transposed by a copyist. 

2. A Hittite, one of David’s warriors, whom David invited to accompany 
him at night into the camp of Saul in the wilderness of Ziph, but Abishai 
seems alone to have gone with him. 1 Sam. xxvi, 6, 7. B. C. about 1 060. 

AHI'MOTH, (Heb. Achimoth, nto'ntf, brother of death, that is, destruc- 
tive ,) one of the sons of Elkanah, a Levite. 1 Chron. vi, 25. In ver. 26 he 
is called Mahath. 

AHIN'ADAB, (Heb. AchinadaV, liberal brother ,) son of Iddo, 

and one of the twelve purveyors of Solomon. His district was Mahanaim, 
the southern half of the region beyond Jordan. 1 Kings iv, 14. B. C. 1014. 

AHIN'OAM, (Heb. Achino'am, Dyrns, brother of pleasantness , that is, 
pleasant.) ' : 

1. The daughter of Ahimaaz, and wife of King Saul. 1 Sam. xiv, 50. 
B. C. about 1087. 

2. A Jezreelitess, and one of David’s wives while he was yet a private 
person. 1 Sam. xxv, 43. B. C. 1060. She and his other wife, Abigail, 
lived with him at the court of Achish, (chap, xxvii, 3 ;) were taken prisoner 
by the Amalekites when they plundered Ziklag, (chap, xxx, 5,) but were 
rescued by David. Ver. 18. She went with him to Hebron and resided 
with him while he remaiued there as king of Judah, (2 Sam. ii, 2,) and was 
mother of his eldest son, Amnon. Chap, iii, 2. 

AHI'O, (Heb. Achyo', vntf, brotherly.) 

1. One of the sons of the Levite Aminadab, to whom, with his brother, 
was intrusted the care of the ark when David first attempted to remove it 
to Jerusalem. Ahio probably guided the oxen, while his brother Uzzah 
walked by the cart. 2 Sam. vi, 3, 4 ; 1 Chron. xiii, 7. B. C. 1042. 

2. A Benjamite, one of the sons of Beriali. 1 Chron. viii, 14. B. C. 1400. 

3. One of the sons of Jeliiel, a Gibeonite, by Maaehah. 1 Chron. viii, 31; 
ix, 37. B. C. about 1400. 

AHI'RA, (Heb. Achira JJTntf, brother of evil , that is, unlucky ,) the son 

of Enan, and chief of the tribe of Naplitali. Num. ii, 29. He was appointed 
as “ head man ” of his tribe to assist Moses in numbering the people, (chap, 
i, 15,) and made his contribution to the sacred service on the twelfth day of 
offering. Chap, vii, 78, 83; x, 27. B. C. 1490. 

AHI'RAM, (Heb. Achiram DlVlX, brother of the height, or high,) a son 

of Benjamin, from whom one of the families of the Benjamites was named. 
Num. xxvi, 38. B. C. 1452. He was, apparently, the same w til Ehi, (Gen. 
xlvi, 21,) Aher, (1 Chron. vii, 12,) and Aharah. 1 Chron. viii, 1. 

AHISATVTACHj (Heb. Achisa'mak, 7pD' , nX, brother of help,) father of 

one of the famous workers upon the tabernacle, Aholiab, the Danite. Exod. 
xxxi, 6: xxxv, 34; xxxviii, 23. B. C. 1491. 

AHISH'AHAR, (Heb. Achislia'char, "ln^nX, brother of the dawn , that 

is, early,) a warrior, last-named of the sons of Bilhan, of the tribe of Benja- 
min. 1 Chron. vii, 10. B. C. 1444. 


AHISHAR — AHOLAH. 


47 


AHI'SHAR, (Heb. Achishar "i&jbntf, brother of song, or of the upright ,) 

' the officer who was “ over the household ” of Solomon, (1 Kings iv, 6,) that 
is, steward, or governor of the palace — a place of great importance and 
influence in the East. B. C. 1014. 

AHITH'OPHEL, (Heb. Achito'phel, f>BrpnK, brother of folly,) a coun- 
selor of David, whose wisdom was so highly esteemed that his advice had 
the authority of a divine oracle. 2 Sam. xvi, 23. Absalom, when he revolted, 
sent to Ahithophel, who was at Giloh, his native city, and secured his adhe- 
sion. He, perhaps, thought to wield a greater sway under the prince than 
he had done under David, and also resented David’s conduct to his grand- 
daughter, Bathsheba. (Compare 2 Sam. xi, 3, with chap, xxiii, 34.) When 
David heard of Aliithophel’s defection, he prayed God to turn his counsel “ to 
foolishness,” (doubtless alluding to his name,) and induced Hushai, his 
friend, to go over to Absalom to defeat the counsels of this now dangerous 
enemy. Chap, xv, 31-37. Ahithophel’s advice to Absalom was to show that 
the breach between him and his father was irreparable by publicly taking 
possession of the royal harem. Chap, xvi, 20-23. He also recommended 
immediate pursuit of David, and would probably have succeeded, had not 
Husliai’s plausible advice been accepted by the council. When Ahithophel 
saw that his counsel was rejected for that of Hushai, the far-seeing man 
gave up the cause of Absalom for lost ; and he forthwith returned to his 
home in Giloh, hanged himself, and was buried in the sepulcher of his father. 
2 Sam. xvii. B. C. 1023. (Kitto, Smith, s. v.) 

AHI'TUB, (Heb. AchituV, brother of goodness.) 

1. The son of Phinehas and grandson of Eli. He, probably, succeeded the 
latter in the high-priesthood, his father being slain in battle. B. C. 1141. 
He was succeeded by his son Ahiah, or Ahimelech. 1 Sam. xiv, 3 ; xxii, 9, 
11, 20. B. C. about 1097. 

2. The son of Amariah and father of Zadok, who was made high-priest 
by Saul after the death of Ahimelech. 2 Sam. viii, 17 ; 1 Cliron. vi, 8. B. C. 
1040. It is not probable that this Ahitub was ever high-priest. The coinci- 
dence of names (1 Chron. vi, 8, 11, 12) would lead us to infer that the latter 
list was spurious, or that by the Ahitub found therein is meant Azariah. 
2 Chron. xxxi, 10. Of the Ahitub mentioned in 1 Chron. ix, 11 ; Neh. xi, 11, 
nothing definite is known, save that he was “ ruler of the house of God.” 

AH'LAI, (Heb. Achlay ', Oh that! perhaps ornamental.) 

1. The daughter of Sheshan, a descendant of Judah, married to her 
father’s Egyptian slave, Jarha, (q. v.,) by whom she had Attai. 1 Chron. 
ii, 31, 34, 35. 

2. The father of one of David’s valiant men. 1 Chron. xi, 41. B. C. 1047. 

AHO'AH, (Heb. Acho'ach, ninitf, brotherly ,) the son of Bela, the son of 

Benjamin, (1 Chron. viii, 4 ;) called also Ahiah, (ver. 7,) and perhaps In. 
1 Chron. vii, 7. B. C. probably about 1600. It is probably he whose 
descendants are called Aholiites. 2 Sam. xxiii, 9, 28. 

AHO'LAH, (Heb. Aholah', she has her own tent,) the name of a 

probably imaginary harlot, used by Ezekiel (chap, xxiii, 4. 5. 3G. 44’> as a 


48 


AHOLIAB — AIAH. 


symbol of the idolatry of Samaria, the apostate branch of Judah being 
designated by Aholibah. The terms indicate respectively that, while the 
worship of Samaria had been self-invented, and never sanctioned by Jeho- 
vah, that at Jerusalem was divinely instituted, but now degraded and aban- 
doned for foreign alliances. They are both graphically described as lewd 
women, adulteresses, prostituting themselves to the Egyptians and Assyr- 
ians, in imitating their abominations and idolatries ; wherefore the allegory 
is an epitome of the history of the Jewish Church, (Kitto, s. v.) 

AHO'LIAB, (Heb. Oholiab', afcrfjfiK, tent of his father ,) the son of Ahis- 

T • Tj r 

amach, of the tribe of Dan, an expert workman in the precious metals and 
other materials, and, together with Bezaleel, appointed to superintend the 
preparation of such articles for the . tabernacle. Exod. xxxi, 6; xxxv, 34; 
xxxvi, 1, 2; xxxviii, 23. B. C. 1491. 

AHOLIBAH, (Heb. Oholibah ', rQ^HK, my tent is in her,) a symbolical 

t • t: ▼ 

name given to Jerusalem, (Ezek. xxiii, 4, 11, 22, 36, 44,) under the figure of 
an adulterous harlot, as having onee contained the true worship of Jehovah, 
but having prostituted herself to foreign idolatries. (See Aholah.) 

AHOLIBA'MAH, (Heb. AholiVamah , tent of the height.) 

1. The granddaughter of Zibeon, the Hivite, and one of the wives of Esau. 
Gen. xxxvi, 2. B. C. about 1800. In the earlier narrative (Gen. xxvi, 34) 
Aholibamah is called Judith, the daughter of Beeri, the Hittitd*. The prob- 
able explanation is, that her proper name was Judith, and that Aholibamah 
was the name that she received as the wife of Esau and foundress of the 
three tribes of his descendants. 

2. One of the dukes who sprang from Esau. Gen. xxxvi, 41 ; 1 Chron. 
i, 52. The list of names in which this is included is probably of places, and 
not of persons. This would seem to be evident from the expression in the 
heading, “ after their places by their names," (ver. 40.) as compared with ver. 
43, “ according to their habitations in the land of their possession .” (Keil, in 
loco. Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

AHU'MAI, (Heb. Achumay ', brother of water,) the son of Jaliath, 

a descendant of Judah, and of the family of the Zorathites. 1 Chron. iv. 2. 
B. C. about 1300. 

AHU'ZAM, (Heb. Achuzzam ” their possession ,) the first-named of 

the four sons of Ashur (“ father of Tekoa ”) by one of his wives, Naarah, of 
the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 6. B. C. about 1300. 

AHUZ'ZATH,'(Heb. Acliuzzath', fUnK, possession,) one of the friends 

(perhaps “favorite”) of the Philistine king Abimelech, who accompanied 
him on his visit to Isaac. Gen. xxvi, 26. B. C. about 1800. 

AFAH, (Heb. Ayah', n s N, a cry , often hawk.) 

1. The first-named of the two sons of Zibeon, the Horite, or rather Hivite. 
Gen. xxxvi, 24, where the name is Anglicised Ajah. 1 Chron. i, 40. B. C. 
about 1840. 

2. The father of Rizpah, Saul’s concubine. 2 Sam, iii. 7 ; xxi, 8, 10, 11. 
B. C. about 1053. 


AKAN — ALMODAD. 


49 


A'KAN, (Heb. Akan ', ptf, twisted ,) the last-named of the three sons of 

Ezer, the son of Seir, the Horite, (Gen. xxxvi, 27,) called also (1 Chron. i, 42) 
Jakan. 

AK'KUB, (Heb. Akkub ', insidious.) 

1. The fourth-named of the seven sons of Elioenai, or Esli, a descendant 
of David. 1 Chron. iii, 24. 

2. One of the Levitical gate-keepers of the temple after the captivity. 
1 Chron. ix, 17 ; Ezra xi, 19 ; xii, 25. B. C. 536. Perhaps the same who 
assisted Ezra in expounding the law to the people. Nell. viii, 7. His de- 
scendants appear to have succeeded to the office. Ezra ii, 42. 

3. The head of one of the families of Nethinim that returned from Baby- 
lon. Ezra ii, 45. B. C. 536. 

AL'AMETH, (less correct form of Alemeth, q. v.,) the last-named of 
the nine sous of Becher, the son of Benjamin. 1 Chron. vii, 8. B. C. 1444. 

ALE'METH, (Heb. Ale'meth, covering ,) the first-named of the 

sons of Jehoadah, or Jarah, the son of Ahaz, of the posterity of SauL 
1 Chron. viii, 36 ; ix, 42. B. C. after 1056. 

ALEXANDER, (Gr. Kle^avSpor, helper of men.) 

1. A man, whose father, Simon, a Cyrenian Jew, was compelled to bear 
the cross of Jesus. Mark xv, 21. 

2. A kinsman, probably, of the liigh -priest, and one of the chief men in 
Jerusalem, present at the examination of Peter and John before the Sauhe- 
drin .for the cure of the lame man. Acts iv, 6. A. D. 33. 

3. A Jew of Ephesus, known only from the part he took in the uproar 
about Diana, which was raised there by the preaching of Paul. Acts xix, 
33. A. D. 58. He was probably put forward by the Jews to defend them 
from any connection with the Christians. His appeal to them for oppor- 
tunity was in vain, an uproar following for two hours. 

4. A coppersmith or brazier, who, with Hvmenseus and others, apos- 
tatized. 1 Tim. i, 20. It is not certain, but not at all improbable, that 
ho is the same person as the one mentioned in 2 Tim. iv, 14, who seems 
to have opposed and hindered Paul. 

AIiX'AH, (Heb. Aliah', perhaps evil,) a less, correct form of Alvah, 
(q. v.) The second-named of the- dukes of Edom, descended from Esau. 
1 Chron. i, 51. 

ALI'AN, (Heb. Alvan', tall,) a less correct form of the name At, van, 
(q. v.) The first-named of the five sons of Sliobal, a descendant of Seir. 
1 Chron. i, 40. B. C. about 1853. 

AI/LON, (Heb. Alton', ji^N, an oak,) the son of Jedaiah and father of 

Shiphi, a chief Simeonite, of the family of those who expelled the Hamites 
from the Valley of Gedor. 1 Chron. iv, 37. B. C. about 715. 

ALMO'DAD, (Heb. Almodad', meaning unknown,) the son of 

Joktan, of the family of Shem. Gen. x, 26; 1 Chron. i, 20. B. C. about 
2247. He is supposed to have been the founder of an Arabian tribe, the 
locality of which is unknown. 


50 


ALPHA2US — AMARIAH. 


ALPHiE'US, (Gr. ATupaioc.) 

1. The putative father of James the Less, (Matt, x, 3; Mark iii, 18; 
Luke vi, 15 ; Acts i, 13,) and husband of that Mary who, with the mother 
of Jesus and others, was standing by the cross during the crucifixion. 
John xix, 25. By comparing John xix, 25, with Luke xxiv, 10, and Matt, 
x, 3, it appears that Alphceus is the Greek, and Cleophas, or Clopas, (q. v..) 
the Hebrew or Syraic, name of the same person. (Smith, Dictionary, s. v.) 

2. The father of the evangelist Levi, or Matthew. Mark ii, 14. 

AL'VAH, (Heb. Alvah ', rt6y, perhaps evil,) the second-named of tho 

Edomitish chieftains descended from Esau. Gen. xxxvi, 40. The name is 
translated Aliah in 1 Chron. i, 51. B. C. about 1496. 

AI/VAN, (Heb. Alvan ', tall,) the first-named of the five sons of 

Sliobal, the Horite, of Mount Seir, (Gen. xxxvi, 23;) called also Alian. 

1 Chron. i, 40. B. C. about 1853. 

A'MAL, (Heb. AmaV, toil,) the last-named of the four sons of 
Helem, of the tribe of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 35. B. C. about 1444. 
AM'ALEK, (Heb. AmaleJc', pb'OVi dweller in a valley ,) the son of Eliphaz 

(the first-born of Esau) by his concubine, Timna, (Gen. xxxvi, 12 ; 1 Chron. 
i, 36,) and chieftain of an Idumsean tribe. Gen. xxxvi, 16. B. C. about 
1740. This tribe was probably not the same with the Amalekites so often 
mentioned in Scriptures, for Moses speaks of the Amalekites long before 
this Amalek was born. Gen. xiv, 7. 

AMARFAH, (Heb. Amaryah ', fTHlDK, said [that is, promised] by Je- 
hovah.) t:-- ; 

1. A person mentioned in 1 Chron. vi, 7, 52, in the list of the descend- 
ants of Aaron by his eldest son, Eleazer, as the son of Meraioth and father of 
Ahitub. B. C. about 1300. There is no means of determining whether 
Amariah was ever high-priest, but it is probable that lie was the last of 
the high-priests of Eleazer ’s line prior to its transfer to the line of Ithamar 
in the person of Eli, (q. v.) Josephus calls him Aropliseus, and says he 
lived in private, the pontificate being at the time in the family of Ithamar. 

2. A high-priest at a later date, (B. C. probably 740,) son of another 
Azariah, and father of another Ahitub. 1 Chron. vi, 11 ; Ezra vii, 3. 

3. A Levite, second son of Hebron and grandson of Kohath, and of the 
lineage of Moses. 1 Chron. xxxiii, 19; xxiv. 23. B. C. 1015. 

4. A chief priest active in the reforms instituted by King Jehoshaphat. 

2 Chron. xix, 11. B. C. 896. 

5. One of the Levites appointed by Hezekiah to superintend the distribu- 
tion of the temple dues among the sacerdotal cities. 2 Chron. xxxi, 15. 
B. C. 726. 

6. A Jew, son of Bani, who divorced his Gentile wife, whom he had 
married after the return from Babylon. Ezra x, 42. B. C. 456. 

7. One of the priests who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel, (Neh. 
xii, 2 ; B. C. 536,) and probably the same person who years after (B. C. 445) 
sealed the covenant with Nehemiah. Neh. x, 3. He appears to have been 
identical with the chief priest, the father of Jehohanan. Neh. xii, 13. 

8. The son of Shephatiah and father of Zechariah. His descendant, 


AMASA— AMASIAH. 


51 


Atliaiah, was one of the Judahite residents in Jerusalem after the captivity. 
Neh. xi, 4. B. C. 445. 

9. The great-grandfather of the prophet Zephaniah. Zeph. i, 1. B, C. 
long before 630. 

AM'ASA, (Heb. Amasa ', burden.) 

1. The son of Abigail, a sister of King David, by Jether, or Ithra, 
(q. v.,) an Ishmaelite. 1 Chron. ii, 17; 2 Sam. xvii, 25; 1 Kings ii, 5, 32. 
His paternity probably led David to neglect him in comparison with the 
more honored sons of David’s other sister, Zeruiah. He joined Absalom in 
his rebellion, and was by him appointed eommander-iu-cliief in the place of 
Joab, by whom he was totally defeated in the forest of Ephraim. 2 Sam. 
xviii, 6, 7. David afterward gave him command of his army in the room of 
Joab, who had incurred displeasure by his overbearing conduct and his 
slaying of Absalom. 2 Sara, xix, 13. B. C. 1023. On the breaking out 
of Sheba’s rebellion, Amasa was so tardy in his movements (probably from 
the reluctance of the troops to follow him) that David dispatched Abishai 
with the household troops in pursuit of Sheba, and Joab joined his brother as 
a volunteer. Amasa overtook them at the great stone of Gribeon, and Joab, 
while in the act of saluting him, smote him dead with his sword, thus 
ridding himself of a dangerous rival. Joab continued the pursuit of Sheba, 
and, by his popularity with the army, prevented David from removing him 
from eommand, or calliug him to account for his bloody' deed. 2 Sam. xx, 
4-13. B. C. 1022. Whether Amasa be identical with the Amasai who is 
mentioned among David’s commanders (1 Chron. xii, 18) is uncertain. 

2. A son of Hadlai and chief of Ephraim, who with others vehemently 
and successfully resisted the retention as prisoners of the persons whom 
Pekah, king of Israel, had taken captive in a campaign against Ahaz, 
king of Judah, 2 Chron. xxviii, 12. B. C. about 738. 

AM'ASAIj (Heb. Amasay% burdensome) 

1. A Levite, son of Elkanah, and father of Mahath, of the ancestry of 
Samuel. 1 Chron. vi, 25, 35. B. C. about 1300. 

2. One of the chief captains of Judah who, with a considerable body of 
men from Judah and Benjamin, joined David while an outlaw at Ziklag. 
He with others was made captain of David’s band. 1 Chron. xii, 18. B. C. 
about 1058. This is the Amasai who is supposed by some to be identical 
with Amasa. 

3. One of the priests appointed to precede the ark with blowing of 
trumpets on its removal from the house of Obed-edom to Jerusalem. 

1 Chron. xv, 24. B. 0. about 1042. 

4. Another Levite, and father of the Mahath who assisted Hezekiah in 
restoring the worship of God, and was active in cleansing the temple. 

2 Chron. xxix, 12. B. C. 726. 

AM'ASHAI, (probably an incorrect form of the name Amasai ,) the son 
of Azareel, and one of the priests appointed by Nehemiah to reside at Jeru- 
salem and do the work of the temple. Neh. xi, 13* B. C. 445. 

AM'ASIAH, (Heb. Amasyah ' fppOg, burden of Jehovah .) the son of 

Ziehri, a chieftain of Judah, who volunteered to assist King Jehoshaphat in his 
religious reform, with 200,000 chosen troops. 2 Chron. xvii, 16. B. C. 912. 
4 


52 


AM AZ r A n — A M I TTA I. 


AMAZI'AH. (Heb. Amatsyah', , whom Jehovah strengthens.') 

1. The son and successor of Jehoash or Joash, and the ninth king of 
Judah. He ascended the throne at the age of 25 years, and reigned 29 
years. 2 Kings xiv, 1,2; 2 Chron. xxv, 1. B. C. 839-810. He com- 
menced his reign by slaying the persons who had murdered his father, 
but spared their children, according to the Mosaic injunction. Dent. xxiv, 
16. In the twelfth year of his reign he prepared a great expedition for 
the recovery of Edom, which had revolted from Jehoram. He raised a 
large army (300,000) of his own, and increased it by hiring 100,000 Isra- 
elites, the first example of a mercenary army that occurs in the history of 
the Jews. At the command of the prophet he dismissed these merce- 
naries, who returned in anger and sacked several of the cities of Judah. 
The obedience of Amaziah was rewarded by a great victory over the 
Edomites, 10,000 of whom were slain in battle, and 10,000 more dashed 
to pieces from the rocks of Selah, which Amaziah took, and called Jokteeh 
Among the spoil # whieh lie took were the idols of Mount Seir, in the wor- 
ship of which Amaziah suffered himself to be engaged. Then began his 
disasters. A prophet was sent to reprove him, and he resented his faith- 
ful admonition. The prophet then foretold his downfall. Urged by arro- 
gance, or provoked by the conduct of the disbanded mercenaries, lie sent a 
challenge to the king of Israel to meet him in battle. The king returned 
him a scornful reply through a parable, and advised him to remain at 
home. Amaziah, still belligerent, was met by Jehoash, and by him defeated, 
taken prisoner, and brought to Jerusalem, his own metropolis. The north 
city wall was broken down, the temple and palace despoiled, and hostages 
taken. Amaziah was allowed to remaiu upon the throne and survived 
about fifteen years, when a conspiracy was formed against h'm, and be 
was slain at Lachish. His body was brought “upon horses ” to Jerusalem, 
and buried in the royal sepulcher. 2 Kings xiv, 3-20; 2 Chron. xxv, 2-28. 

2. The father of Josliah, which latter was one of the Simeonite chiefs 
who expelled the Amalekites from the valley of Gedor in the time of 
Hezekiah. 1 Chron. iv, 34. B. 0. about 775. 

The son of Hilkiah and father of Hashabiah, a Levite of the aneestry of 
Ethan, a singer of the temple. 1 Chron. vi, 45. B. C. considerably before 
1014. 

4. The priest of the golden calves at Bethel, in the time of Jeroboam II. 
He complained to the king of Amos’s prophecies of coming evil, and urged 
the prophet to withdraw into the kingdom of Judah and prophesy there. 
Amos in reply told him of the severe degradation his family should under- 
go in the approaching captivity of the northern kingdom. Amos vii. 10-17. 
B. C. 787. 

A'MI, (Heb. Ami*, one of the servants of Solomon, whose descend- 
ants went up from Babylon. Ezra ii, 57. In Neh. vii, 59, he is called Amon. 

AMIN' AD AB, a Greek form (Matt i, 4 ; Luke iii, 33) of Amminadab, 
(q. v.) 

AMIT'TAI, (Heb. Amittay', true,) a native of Gath-hepher, of 

the tribe of Zebulun, and father of the prophet Jonah. 2 Kings xiv, 25 • 
Jonah i, 1. B. C. before 820. 


AMMIEL — AMMISHADDAI. 


53 


AM'MIEL, (Heb. Ammiel ', people [that is, friend\ of God. 

1. The son of Gemalli, of the tribe of Dan, one of the twelve spies sent 
by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. Num. xiii, 12. B. C. 1490. He 
was, of course, one of the ten who perished by the plague for their “evil 
report.” Num. xiv, 37. 

2. The father of Machir of Lo-debar, which latter entertained Mephibo- 
sheth until he was befriended by David. 2 Sam. ix, 4, 5 ; xvii, 27. B. C. 
before 1040. 

3. The father of Bathsheba, wife of Uriah, and afterward of David. 
1 Chron. iii, 5. B. C. before 1030. In 2 Sam. xi, 3, he is called Eliam, 
(q. v.,) by the transposition of the first and last syllables. 

4. The sixth son of Obed-edom, and one of the door-keepers of the tem- 
ple. 1. Chron. xxvi, 5. B. C. 1015. 

AMMIH'UD, (Heb. Ammihud ', *nrpE>JJ, people of glory.) 

1. An Ephraimite, whose son, Elishama, was appointed chief of the 
tribe at the time of the Exode. Num. i, 10; ii, 18; vii, 48, 53; x, 22; 

1 Chron. vii, 26. B. C. before 1490. 

2. The father of Shemuel, which latter was the Simeonite chief who was 
appointed for the division of the Promised Land. Num. xxxiv, 20. B. C. 
before 1452. 

3. A man of the tribe of Naphtali, whose son, Pedahel, was prince of 
the tribe, and was appointed for the division of the land. Num. xxxiv, 28. 
B. C. before 1452. 

4. The father of Talmai, king of Geshur, to whom Absalom fled after his 
murder of Amnon. 2 Sam. xiii, 37. B. C. before 1030. 

5. The son of Omri, and descendant of Pharez, and father of Uthai, 
which last was one of the first to live at Jerusalem on the return from 
Babylon. 1 Chron. ix, 4. B. C. before 536. 

AMMIN'ADAB, (Heb. Amminadab ', 2"T3 , 1£>5h kindred of the prince .) 

1. Son of Ram, or Aram, and father of Nashon, (or Naasson, Matt. i. 4; 
Luke iii, 32,) who was prince of the tribe of Judah at the first numbering 
of Israel in the second year of the Exodus. Num. i, 7 ; ii, 3. B. C. before 
1490. He was the fourth in descent from Judah, the sixth in ascent from 
David, (Ruth iv, 19, 20; 1 Chron. ii, 10,) and one of the ancestors of Jesus 
Christ. Matt, i, 4; Luke iii, 33. He is the same Amminadab, probably, 
whose daughter, Elisheba, was married to Aaron. Exod. vi, 23. 

2. A son of Kohath, the second son of Levi. 1 Chron. vi, 22. In verses 

2 and 18 he seems to be called Izhar, (q. v.) 

3. A Levite of the sons of Uzziel, who, with 112 of his brethren* was ap- 
pointed by David to assist in bringing up the ark to Jerusalem. 1 Chron. xv, 
10, 11. B. C. 1042. 

AMMIN'ADIB, (Heb. 2 , ‘p"' , ?2y, perhaps another form of Ammina- 
dab,) a person whose chariots are mentioned as proverbial for their swift- 
ness, (Song of Sol. vi, 12 ;) from which he appears to have been, like Jehu, 
one of the most celebrated charioteers of his day. 

AMMISHAD'DAI, (Heb. Ammishadday', ''KP'lpy, people ( servants ) of 
the Almighty,) the father of Ahiezer, chief of the tribe of Dan at the 


54 


AM MIZ A BAD — AMOS. 


time of the Exodus. Num. i, 12; ii, 25; vii, 66, 71; x, 25. B. C. before 
1490. 

AMMIZ'ABAD, (Heb. Ammizabad', IDT'Eiy, people of the Giver, that is, 

servant of Jehovah,) the son and subaltern of Benaiah, which latter was 
David’s captain of the host commanding in the third month. 1 Chron. 
xxvii, 6. B. C. 1015. 

AM'MON, (Heb. Ammon', fifty, another form of Ben-ammi, q. v.,) the 

son of Lot by his youngest daughter. Gen. xix, 38. B. C. 1897. His de- 
scendants were called Ammonites, (Deut. ii, 20,) children of Ammon, (Gen. 
xix, 38,) and sometimes simply Ammon. Neh. xiii, 23. 

AM'NON, (Heb. Amnon', pjfttf, faithful.) 

1. The eldest son of David by Aliinoam, the Jezreelitess, born in Hebron. 
2 Sam. iii, 2 ; 1 Chron. iii, 1. B. C. about 1053. By the advice and as- 
sistance of Jonadab, he violated his half-sister Tamar, (B. C. about 1032,) 
which her brother Absalom revenged two years after by causing him to be 
assassinated. 2 Sam. xiii. 

2. The first-named of the four sons of Shimon, or Shammai, of the chil- 
dren of Ezra, the descendant of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 20. 

A'MOK, (Heb. Amolc', pifty, deep,) the father of Eber, and a chief among 

the priests who went up from Babylon with Jerubbabel. Neh. xii, 7, 20. 
B. C. 536. 

A'MON, (Heb. Amon ', fifttf, builder.) 

1. The governor of “ the city” (probably Samaria) in the time of Ahab, 
who was charged to keep Micaiah till the king should return from the siege 
of Ramoth-Gilead. 1 Kings xxii, 26 ; 2 Chron. xviii, 25. B. C. 897. 

2. The fifteenth king of Judah, who succeeded his father Manasseh at 
the age of twenty-two years, (B. C. 643,) and reigned two years. He fol- 
lowed Manasseh’s idolatries without sharing his repentance. Falling a vic- 
tim to a court conspiracy, the people avenged his death by slaying the con- 
spirators and placing upon the throne his son Josiali, aged eight years. 
Amon was buried with his father in the garden of Uzza. 2 Kings xxi, 19-25 ; 
2 Chron. xxxiii, 20-25; Jer. i, 2; xxv, 3; Zeph. i, 1. 

2. The head, or ancestor, of one of the families of the Nethinims who 
returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel after the captivity. Neh. vii, 59. 
B. C. ante 536. 

A'MOS, (Heb. Arnos ' , Difty, borne up, sustained.) 

1. One of the twelve minor prophets and a native of Tekoah, a town 
about six miles south of Bethlehem. He belonged to the shepherds there, 
and was not trained in any school of the prophets. And yet, without dedi- 
cating himself to the calling of a prophet, he was called by the Lord to 
prophesy concerning Israel in the reigns of Uzziah, king of Judah, and 
Jeroboam, king of Israel, two years before the earthquake. Amos i, 1. B. C. 
about 797. The exact date of his appearing, or the length of his ministry, 
cannot be given. The two kingdoms were at the summit of their prosper- 
ity. Idleness, luxury, and oppression were general, and idolatry prevalent. 
It was at such a time as this that the plain shepherd of Tekoah was sent 


AMOZ— AN AH. 


55 


into Israel, and prophesied at Bethel. This is almost a solitary instance of 
a prophet being sent from Judah into Israel, and, doubtless, attracted uni- 
versal attention. His prophetic utterances were directed against Judah as 
well as Israel, and close with promises of divine mercy and returning favor 
to the chosen race. He was charged with a conspiracy against Jeroboam, 
the king, and threatened by Amaziah, the high-priest of Bethel. After ful- 
filling his mission, he probably returned to Judah. The time and rnanuer 
of his death are unknown. 

2. The ninth in the line of ascent from Christ, being the son of Naum and 
father of Mattathias. Luke iii, 25. B. C. about 400. 

A'MOZ, (Heb. Amots\ pDN, strong ,) the father of the prophet Isaiah. 

2 Kings xix, 2 ; Isa. i. 1. B. C. before 760. According to Rabbinical tradi- 
tion, he is also the brother of King Amaziah, and a prophet ; but of this there 
is no proof. 

AM'PLIAS, a Christian at Rome, and mentioned by Paul as one whom 
he particularly loved. R&n. xvi, 8. A. D. 60. 

AM'RAM, (Heb. Arnram, kindred of the High.) 

1. The first-named of the sons of Kohath, a Levite. He married his 
father’s sister, Jochebed, and by her became the father of Miriam, Aaron, 
and Moses. Exod. vi, 18, 20 ; Num. xxvi, 59. He died aged 137 years, 
probably before the Exode. The marrying of a father’s sister was forbid- 
den in the law given at Sinai. Lev. xviii, 12. 

2. A son of Dislion and descendant of Esau. 1 Chron. i, 41. In Gen. 
xxxvi, 26, he is called more correctly Hemdan, (q. v.) 

3. • One of the sons of Bani, who, after the return from Babylon, sepa- 
rated from his Gentile wife. Ezra x, 34. B. C. 456. 

AM'RAPHEIi, (Heb. Amraphel ', keeper of the gods,) a king of 

Shinar, (that is, Babylonia,) who, with Chedorlaomer, king of Elam, (q. v.,) 
and two other kings, made a victorious incursion against Sodom, Gomorrah, 
and the three neighboring cities, which they plundered. Among the captives 
whom they carried off was Lot, who was afterward retaken by Abraham. 
Gen. xiv, 1, 9, 16. B. C. about 1913. 

AM'ZI, (Heb. Amlsi ', strong.) 

1. Son of Bani, of the family of Merari, and in the ancestry of Ethan, 
who was appointed one of the leaders of the temple music. 1 Chron. vi, 46. 
B. C. long before 1018. 

2. Son of Zechariah and ancestor of Adaiah, which latter was actively 
engaged in the building of the second temple. Neh. xi, 12. B. C. before 
445. 

A'NAH, (Heb. Anahf, ptfy, speech or affliction ,) the son of Zibeon and 

grandson of Seir. His daughter Aholibamah is the second-named of 
Esau’s wives. Gen. xxxvi, 2, 14, 25. An Anah is mentioned in Gen. 
xxxvi, 20, as one of the sons of Seir, and head of an Idumsean tribe. Both 
passages probably refer to the same person, the word “ son ” being used, in 
ver. 20, in the larger sense of descendant. While feeding his father’s asses 
in the desert he discovered warm springs, from which circumstance he 
probably obtained the name Beeri, “ the man of the wells.” Gen. xxvi, 24. 


56 


ANAIAH— ANANIAS. 


ANAI'AH, (Heb. Anaya h', rny, whom Jehovah answers ,) one of the 

tt" : 

persons (probably priests) who stood at the right hand of Ezra, while he 
read the law to the people, (Neh. viii, 4,) and perhaps the same with one 
of the chiefs of the people who joined Neliemiah in a sacred covenant. 
Neh. x, 22. B. C. 445. 

A'NAK, (Heb. Anakf, pjy, long-necked , that is, a giant,) the son of Arba, 

the founder of Kirjath-Arba. He was the progenitor of a race of giants 
called Anakim. These Anakim were a terror to the children of Israel. 
(Num. xiii, 22, 28,) but were driven out by Caleb, who came into possession of 
Hebron. Jos. xv, 13, 14. B. C. before 1490. 

A'NAN, (Heb. Anan' y »»• a cloud,) one of the chief Israelites that sealed 
the covenant on the return from Babylon. Neh. x, 26. B. C. 445. 

ANA'NI, (Heb. Anani ', V)jy, protected, probably a shortened form of 

Ananiah.) the last-named of the seven sons of Elioenai, a descendant of 
David, after the captivity. 1 Chron. iii, 24. B. C. about 400. 

ANANI' AH, (Heb. Ananyah ', protected by Jehovah,) the father of 

Maaseiah, and grandfather of Azariah. The latter repaired a portion of the 
wall of Jerusalem after the return from exile. Neh. iii, 23. B. C. about 
445. 

ANANI' AS, (’A vaviac, Greek form of Ananiah , protected by Jehovah.) 

1. A member of the early Christian Church at Jerusalem, who, conspiring 
with his wife, Sapphira, to deceive and defraud the brethren, was overtaken by 
sudden death, and immediately buried. Acts v, 1, sq. The members of the 
Jerusalem Church had a common fund, which was divided by the apostles 
among the poor. Those who carried into full effect the principle that 
“nought of the things which he possessed was his own,” sold their lands 
and houses and laid the price at the apostles’ feet. One Joses, surnamed 
Barnabas, had done this, and, it would seem, had received hearty commen- 
dation therefor. Probably incited thereby, and desirous of applause, Ana- 
nias, in concert with his wife, Sapphira, sold a possession, and brought the 
pretended price to the apostle. Either their covetousness or fear of want 
influenced them to keep back part of the price — an acted lie. Peter was 
moved by the Spirit to uncover the deceit ; and instead of extenuating it 
because the lie had not been uttered, he passed on all such prevarication the 
awful sentence, “Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.” Upon hear- 
ing these words Ananias “ fell down and gave up the ghost,” and was car- 
ried out and buried by the young men present. See Sapphira. 

Difficulties.— 14 They had all things common.” Acts v, 32. “ By becom- 
ing Christians the Jewish converts suffered the loss of all things, unless they had 
property independent of the will, favor, or patronage of others, and the pro- 
portion of these was few. So deep an offense against Jewish prejudices cast 
them loose from Jewish charities, and involved loss of employment to such as 
were traders, and dismissal from their employments to such as were workmen and 
servants, producing a state of destitution which rendered extraordinary exertions 
necessary on the part of the more prosperous brethren. This is illustrated and 
proved by what we actually see in operation- at this day in Jerusalem.”— Kitto, 
Med. The first Christians did not adopt the fantastical and impracticable theory 
known in modern times by the name of communism , divesting themselves of 
individual property, and throwing all they had and earned into a common stock. 
They had a common fund, but that it was not binding upon all to contribute every 


ANANIAS, 


57 


thin? thereto is evident from what Peter said to Ananias, that he might have kept 
the land if he had chosen, or even have used its price after it was sold. The 
principle universally accepted was, that none should want while any of their 
brethren had the means of helping them. 

2. A devout and lionored Christian of Damascus, to whom the Lord 
appeared in a vision, and bade him go to a street called Straight, and inquire 
at the house of Judas for Saul of Tarsus. Ananias at first hesitated, because 
of his knowledge of his former character and conduct. But, assured of 
Saul’s conversion and God’s purpose concerning him, he consented. He 
went his way, and entered the 
house; and putting his hands 
on him said, “Brother Saul, 
the Lord, even Jesus, that ap- 
peared unto thee, as thou earn- 
est, hath sent me, that thou 
mightest receive thy sight, and 
be filled with the Holy Ghost. 

And immediately there fell 
down from his eyes as it had 
been scales,” and recovering 
his sight which he had lost 
when the Lord appeared to him 
on the way to Damascus, Paul, 
the new convert, arose, was 
baptized, and preached Jesus 
in the synagogues. Acts ix, 

10-20; xxii, 12. A. D. 35. 

Tradition makes Ananias to 
have been afterward bishop of i.1 
Damascus, and to have suffered 
martyrdom. 

3. The high -priest before 
whom Paul was brought pre- 
vious to being taken to Felix. 

Acts xxiii. He was made high- 
priest by Herod, king of Chal- 
cis, who for this purpose re- 
moved Joseph, son of Camy- 
dus. (Josephus, Ant., xx, 1, 3.) 

Being implicated in the quar- 
rels of the Jews and the Samar- 
itans, he with others was sent 
to Rome to answer for His con- 
duct before Claudius Cffisar. (Josephus, Ant., xx, 6, 2.) The emperor decided 
in favor of the accused party, and Ananias returned with credit, and remained 
in office until Agrippa gave it to Ismael. (Josephus, Ant., xx, 8, 8.) When 
Paul appeared before Ananias he made the declaration, “ I have lived in all 
good conscience before God until this day.” Thereupon the high-priest 
ordered the apostle to be smitten in the face. Paul, indignant at so 
unprovoked an assault, replied, “ God shall smite thee, thou whited wall.” 
Being asked, “ Revilest thou God’s high-priest?” Paul said, “I wist not 



STRAIGHT STREET, DAMASCUS. 



58 


ANATH— ANDREW. 



that he was the high- priest,” perhaps, having- overlooked in Tiis warmth the 
honor due him in his official station. A plot having been formed against 
Paul, he was sent by Claudius Lysias to Felix, whither he was followed by 
Ananias, (accompanied by the orator, Tertollus,) who appeared against 
him. Ananias was deposed shortly before Felix quitted his government, 
and was finally assassinated. (Josephus, War, ii, 17, 9. B. C. 67. M’Clin- 
tock and Strong’s Cyclopedia, s. v.) 

A'NATH, (Heb. Anath', rijy, cm answer, that is, to prayer,) the father 

of Shamgar, the third of the judges of Israel after the death of Joshua. 
Judges iii, 31; v, 6. B. C. 1336. 

AN'ATHOTH, (Heb. Anathoih', nfrlJJh answers, that is, to prayer,) the 
name of two men. T : 

1. One of the sons of Becher, the son of Benjamin. 1 Chron. vii, 8. B. C. 
before 1490. 

2. One of the chief Israelites who sealed the covenant after the return 
from Babylon. Neh. x, 19. B. C. about 445. 


SEA OF GALILEE. 


ANDREW. 1. Name and Family. (’Avdpeac, from avrjp, a man) 
A native of the city of Bethsaida in G-alilee, (John i, 44,) the son of Jonas, 
(John xxi, 15,) and brother of Simon Peter. Matt iv, 18; x, 2; John i, 4o! 

2. Personal History. (1) Receives Christ. At first a disciple of John 
Baptist Andrew was led to receive Jesus by John pointing him out as “the 
Lamb of God.” John i, 36-40. He then brought his brother Simon to the 
Master, telling him that he had “found the Messiah.” Ver. 41. They both 
returned to their occupation as fishermen on the Sea of Galilee, and there 


ANDRONICUS— ANNAS. 


59 


remained until, afW John Baptist’s imprisonment, they were c .lle<l by 
Jesus to follow him. Matt, iv, 18, sq. ; Mark i, 14-18. (2) As apostle. 

The further mention of him in the gospels is, his being ordained as one of 
the twelve, (Matt, x, 2; Mark iii, 18; Luke vi, 14;) his calling the atten- 
tion of our Lord to the lad with the loaves and fishes at the feeding of the 
live thousand, (John vi, 8;) his introducing to Jesus certain Greeks who 
desired to see him, (John xii. 20-22 ;) and his asking, along with his brother 
Simon and the two sons of Zebedee, for a further explanation of what the 
Master had said in reference to the destruction of the temple. Mark xiii, 3. 
He was one of those who, after the ascension, continued at Jerusalem in 
the “upper room.’’ Acts i, 13. Scripture relates nothing of him beyond 
these scattered notices. (3) Traditions. The traditions about him are 
various. Eusebius makes him preach in Scythia; Jerome and Theodore t 
in Acliaia, (Greece ;) Nicephorus in Asia Minor and Thrace. It is supposed 
that he founded a church in Constantinople, and ordained Stachys, (q. v..) 
named by Paul, (Rom. xvi, 9) as its first bishop. At length, the tradition 
states, he came to Patrae, a city of Acliaia, where vEgeas, the proconsul, 
enraged at his persisting to preach, commanded him to join in sacrificing to 
tne heathen gods; and upon the apostle’s refusal, he ordered him to be 
severely scourged and then crucified. To make his death more lingering 
he was fastened to the cross, not with nails, but with cords. Having hung 
two days, praising God, and exhorting the spectators to embrace, oradhire 
to, the faith, he is said to have expired on November 30, but in what year 
is uncertain. The cross is stated to have been of the form called Crux 
decu-ssata, and commonly known as “ St. Andrew’s cross, X-” Some aucient 
writers speak of an apocryphal Acts of Andrew. 

ANDRONI'CUS, (Gr. ’A vfipovircoc, man-conquering,) a Jewish Christian, 
kinsman and fellow-prisoner of Paul. He was converted before Paul, and 
was of note among the apostles. Rom. xvi, 7. A. D. 60. According to 
Hippolytus, he became bishop of Pannonia ; according to Dorotheus, of 
Spain. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopcedia , s. v.) 

A'NER, (Heb. Aner', ipy, a youth , an exile,) a Canaanitish chief near 

Hebron who, with Eshcol and Mamre, was confederate with Abraham. 
He joined in pursuit of Chedorlaomer and shared in the spoil, not following 
the example of Abraham. Gen. xiv, 13, 24. B. C. 1913. 

A'NIAM, (Heb. Aniam', DJflJfcjh sighing of the people,) the last-named of 

the sons of Shemidah, of the tribe of Manasseh. 1 Chron. vii, 19. 

AN'NA, (*A vva, Greek form of Hannah ,) the prophetess, and daughter of 
Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. Married in early life she, after seven years, 
lost her husband. From that time she devoted herself to attendance upon 
the temple services, and probably by reason of her great piety was allowed * 
to reside in some one of the chambers of the women’s court. Anna was 
81 years old when the infant Jesus was presented to the Lord. Entering 
as Simeon was thanking God, Anna also broke forth in praise for the ful- 
fillment of the divine promises. Luke ii, 36. 

ANNAS, (a contracted form of Ananias,) a high-priest of the Jews. He 
is called by Josephus An anus , the son of Seth; and was first appointed 
high priest by Quirinus, pro-consul of Syria, about A . D. 7, but was removed 


60 


ANTIPAS — APOLLOS. 


after seven years (Kitto says fifteen years) by Valerius Gratus, procurator 
of Judea, (Josephus, Ant., xviii, 2, 1 and 2.) Annas is mentioned in Luke 
iii, 2, as being high-priest along with Caiaplias. Our Lord’s first hearing was 
before Annas, (John xviii, 13,) who sent him bound to Caiaplias. Verse 24. 
In Acts iv, 6, lie is plainly called high-priest. He had four sons who filled 
that office, besides his son-in-law, Caiaphas. There have been several the- 
ories advanced to reconcile the application of high-priest to Annas and 
Caiaphas at the same time. Kitto thinks that Annas was regarded as being 
high-priest jure divino , and having authority in spiritual matters, while 
Caiaphas was the pontiff recognized by the government. The probability 
is that his great age, abilities, and influence, and his being the father-in- 
law of Caiaphas, made him practically the high-priest, although his son-in- 
law held the office. (Whedon’s Commentary. M’Cliutock and Strong’s 
Cyclopaedia, s. v .) 

AN'TIFAS, (Gr. ’Avnnac.) 

1. Herod Antipas was the son of Herod the Great by Malthace, a Sa- 
maritan. He inherited of his lather’s dominions Galilee and Perea, as 
tetrarch. He was the Herod who executed John the Baptist. (See Herod.) 

2. A “faithful martyr” mentioned in Rev. ii, 13. A. D. ante 100. H3 
is said to have been one of our Saviour’s first disciples and a bishop of Per- 
gamus, and to have been put to death in a tumult there by the priests of 
Aesculapius, who had a celebrated temple in that city. Tradition relates 
that he was burned in a brazen bull under Domitiau. (M’Clintock and 
Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v.) 

ANTOTHI'JAH, (Heb. Anthothiyahf , IVnhjy, answers from Jehovah ,) 
a Benjamite, one of the sons of Jeroham. 1 Chron. viii, 24. 

A'NUB, (Heb. Anub', bound together, confederate ,) son of Coz and de- 
scendant of Judah through Ashur. 1 Chron. iv, 8. 

APEI/LES, a Christian in Rome, whom Paul salutes in his epistle to 
the church there, (Rom. xvi, 10,) and calls him “approved in Christ.” 
A. D. 60. According to the old Church traditions, Apelles was one of the 
seventy disciples, and bishop either of Smyrna or Heracleia. (Kitto, s. v.) 

AFHFAH, (Heb. Aphi'ach, JVSX, blown upon, that is, refreshed ,) the fa- 
ther of Bechorath, a Benjamite and ancestor of Saul. 1 Sam. ix, 1. B. C. 
before 1095. 

APH'SES, (Heb. Hap-Pitsets, dispersion ,) the head of the eight- 

eenth sacerdotal family of the twenty-four into which the priests were divided 
by David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 15. B. C. 1015. 

APOL'LOS, (Gr. 'An oAAwf,) a learned (or eloquent) Jew of Alexandra, 
well acquainted with the Scriptures and the Jewish religion. Acts xviii, 24. 
About A. D. 56 he came to Ephesus, where he began to teach in the syna- 
gogue “ the things of the Lord, knowing outy the baptism of John.” Verse 
25. Here he met Aquila and Priscilla, who “expounded unto him the way 
of God more perfectly,” and Apollos preached Christ with great zeal and 
power. Ver. 26. After this he preached in Achaia, and especially at Cor- 
inth, (chap, xviii, 27, 28 ; xix, 1,) having been recommended by the breth- 
ren in Ephesus. Ver. 27. On his arrival at Corinth he was useful in wa- 


APPATM — ARAH. 


61 


tering the seed which Paul had sown. 1 Cor. iii, 6. Many of the Corinth- 
ians became so much attached to him as to well-nigh produce a schism in 
the Church, some saying “ I am of Paul,” others, “ I am of Apollos.” 1 Cor. 

iii, 4-7. That this party feeling was not encouraged by Apollos is evident 
fiom the manner in which Paul speaks of him, and his unwillingness to re- 
turn to Corinth. 1 Cor. xvi, 12. Apollos was, doubtless, at this time with 
Paul in Ephesus. Paul again mentions Apollos kindly in Tit. iii, 13, and 
recommends him and Zenas, the lawyer, to the attention of Titus, knowing 
that they designed to visit Crete, where Titus was. Jerome thinks that 
Apollos remained thereuntil he had heard that the divisions in the Church 
at Corinth had been healed by Paul’s letter, and then returned and became 
bishop of that city. Other authorities make him bishop of Duras, of Colo- 
phon, of Iconium, (in Phrygia,) of Caesarea. (Conybeare and Howson, Life 
of St. Paul , ii, 13, sq. ; Kitto, s. v.) 

APPA'IM, (Heb. Appa'yim, D'QN, the nostrils ,) the second-named of the 

sons of Nadab, and the father of Ishi, of the posterity of Jerahmeel, of the 
tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 30. 

APPHIA, (pronounced Affia , Or. 'Airdia,) the name of a female affec- 
tionately saluted by Paul (A. D. 64) as a Christian at Colossae, (Phil. 2.) 
supposed by Chrysostom and Theodoret to have been the wife of Philemon, 
with whom, according to tradition, she suffered martyrdom. (See Philemon.) 

AQ'UILA, (Gr. ’A/cvAaf, an eagle ,) a Jew and a native of Pontus, and by 
occupation a tent-maker. Fleeing from Rome in consequence of an order 
of Claudius commanding all Jews to leave that city, he went to Corinth, 
where he was living when Paul found him ; and, being of the same handi- 
craft, abode with him. B. C. 54. Some time after, being opposed by the 
Jews, and perhaps to remove any obstacle to his acceptance by the Gentiles, 
Paul left the house of Aquila and dwelt with one Justus. It is not certain 
when Aquila aud his wife. Priscilla, were converted to Christianity, but it 
was before Paul left Corinth, for they accompanied him to Ephesus. While 
there they instructed Apollos in “ the way of God more perfectly,” (Acts 
xviii,) and appear to have been zealous promoters of the Christian cause in 
that city. 1 Cor. xvi, 19. At the time of Paul’s writing to Corinih Aquila 
and his wife were still at Ephesus, (1 Cor. xvi, 19,) but in Rom. xvi, 3, we 
find them again at Rome, and their house a place of assemblage for Chris- 
tians. Some years after they appear to have returned to Ephesus, for Paul 
sends salutations to them during his second imprisonment at Rome, (2 Tim. 

iv, 19,) as being with Timothy. Nothing further concerning them is known. 
Tradition reports that he and his wife were beheaded. 

A'RA, (Heb. Am', fcOK, lion,) the last-named of the three sons of Jetlier, 
▼ : 

of the tribe of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 38. 

A'RAD, (Heb. Arad', T)X, perhaps to flee.) In Numbers xxi, 1, “king 

Arad” should read “king of Arad.” One of the “ sons” of Beriah, of the 
tribe of Benjamin. 1 Chron. viii, 15. 

A'RAH, (Heb. Arach ', mX, wayfaring .) 

1. The first-named of the three sons of Ulla, of the tribe of Asher. 
1 Chron. vii, 39. B. C. perhaps about 1000. 


62 


ARAM— ARBA. 


2. An Israelite, whose posterity (variously stated as 71 5 and 652 in 
number) returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 5 ; Neh. vii, 10. 
B. C. 536. He is probably the same with the A rah whose son, Shechaniah, 
was father-in-law of Tobiah. Neh. vi, 18. (Smith, s. v.) 

A'RAM, (Heb. Aram', D"lK, high region.) 

▼ “I 

1. The fifth-named of the sons of Shem, and father of the people inhab- 
iting Syria, who, from him, were called Arameans, or Aramites. Gen. x, 22. 
B. C. about 2218. 

2. The son of Kemuel and grandson of Nahor. Gen. xxii, 21. B. C. 
about 1900. According to Smith, (s. v.,) he is probably identical with Ram. 
Job xxxii, 2. 

3. The last-named of the sons of Shamer, of the tribe of Asher. 1 Chron. 
vii, 34. B. C. 1400. 

4. The son of Ezrom and father of Aminadab, among the ancestors of 
Christ. Matt, i, 3, 4 ; Luke iii, 33. The Greek form of Bam. 1 Chron. ii, 9. 

A'RAN, (Heb. Aran', n* wild goat,) the second-named of the two sons 

of Dishon, and grandson of Seir, the Horite. Gen. xxxvi, 28 ; 1 Chron. i, 42. 
B. C. 1853. 

ARAU'NAH, (Heb. Aravndh ', meaning doubtful,) a Jebusite 

who had a threshing-floor on Mount Moriah, which he sold to David as a 



site for an altar to Jehovah. B. C. 1011. The angel of pestilence, sent to 
punish King David for taking a census of the people, was stayed in the 
work of deaih near the plot of ground belonging to this person. When 
David desired to purchase it, he liberally offered the ground to him as a free 
gift. David insisted upon paying Araunah, giving him, according to 2 Sam. 
xxiv, 24, fifty shekels of silver, and according to 1 Chron. xxi, 25, six hun- 
dred shekels of gold. 

Difficulty.— Many efforts have been made to reconcile this difference, some 
saying that the fifty shekels were given for the oxen, and the six hundred shekels 
for the land ; others, that the fifty shekels were for the threshing-floor and oxen, 
and the six hundred shekels for additional ground. This land was the site of the 
temple. 2 Chron. iii, 1. Araunah’s name is sometimes written Oman. (See 
Chronicles.) 

AR'BA, (Heb. Arba', J four,) a giant, father of Anak. From him 

Hebron derived its early name of Kirjath-Arba, that is, city of Arba. Gen. 
xxxv, 27 ; Josh, xiv, 15; xv, 13; xxi, 11, 


ARCHELAUS— ARETAS. 


63 


ARCHE L A'US, (Gr. ’A px&ac, ruler of the people ,) son of Herod the 
Great by a Samaritan woman, Malthace, (Josephus, War , i, 28, 4,) and brought 
up, with his brother Antipas, at Rome, (Josephus, 'War, i, 31, J.) Upon his 
father’s death, Caesar divided his kingdom, giving to Archelaus (B. C. 4) 
Idumea, Judea, and Samaria, with the important cities, Caesarea, Sebaste, 
Joppa, and Jerusalem. His share of the kingdom brought him a yearly in- 
come of 600 talents. He was made ethnarch, with promise of becoming 
king if he ruled virtuous^, (Josephus, Ant ., xvii, 11,4.) After Herod’s 
death, and previous to going to Rome to receive the government, Archelaus 
ordered his soldiers to attack the Jews, who were becoming very tumultu- 
ous, at the temple. The attack resulted in the death of about 3,000 Jews. 
On iris going to Rome the Jews sent a deputation of the principal citizens 
protesting against his cruelty, and asking to be permitted to live according 
to their own laws, under a Roman governor. Some have thought that our 
Lord alludes to this circumstance in Luke xix, 12-27. Archelaus returned 
to Judea, and, under pretense that he had countenanced the seditions 
against him, he deprived Joazar of the high-priesthood, and gave that dig- 
nity to his brother Eleazar. He governed Judea with so much violence 
that, in the tenth (ninth according to Dio Cassius) year of his reign he was 
dethroned, deprived of his property, and banished to Vienna, in Gaul, (Jo- 
sephus, Ant., xvii, 13, 2.) His cruelty was manifested toward Samaritans 
as well as Jews. The parents of our Lord turned aside, from fear of him, 
on their way back from Egypt, and went to Nazareth, in Galilee, in the 
domain of his gentle brother Antipas. Matt, ii, 22. Archelaus illegally 
married Glaphyra, the wife of his brother Alexander, during the life-time of 
the latter. 

ARCHIP'PUS, (Gr. ’Ap^47r7rof, master of the horse,) a Christian minister 
at Colossse, to whom Paul sends a salutation, calling him “ our fellow- 
soldier,” (Philem. 2,) and whom he exhorts to increased activity. Col. iv, 
17. B. C. 64. In the Epistle to Philemon he is addressed jointly with 
Philemon and Apphia, from which it has been inferred that he was a mem- 
ber of Philemon’s family. Tradition states that he was one of Jesus’s seventy 
disciples, and suffered martyrdom at Chonse, near Laodicea. 

ARD, (Heb. TIN, perhaps, fugitive, or descent ,) named in Gen. xlvi, 21, 

as a son of Benjamin, and in Num. xxvi, 40, as a son of Bela, and grandson 
of Benjamin. B. C. about 1700. Both passages probably refer to the same 
person, the former mentioning him as a descendant, the latter giving the 
exact relationship. In 1 Chron. viii, 3, he is called Addar. His descendants 
were called Ardites. 

AR'DON, (Heb. Ardon', pTitf, fugitive, or descendant ,) the last-named of 

the three sons of Caleb, but whether by Azubah or Jerioth is uncertain. 
1 Chron. ii, 18. B. C. about 1471. 

ARE 'Ll, (Heb. Areli', heroic ,) the last-named of the seven sons 

of Gad, and founder of the family of Arelites. Gen. xlvi, 16; Num. xxvi, 17. 
B. C. about 1706. 

AR'ETAS, (Gr. 'kperag, graver ,) the father-in-law of Herod Antipas. 
Herod afterward married the wife of his brother Philip, and in cousequenco 
of this the daughter of Aretas returned to her father. Enraged at the 


64 


ARGOB — ARISTOBULUS. 


conduct of Herod, Aretas instituted hostilities against him, and destroyed 
his army. Complaint being made to the emperor, he sent Vitellius to 
punish Aretas ; but while on the march news was received of the death of 
Tiberius, and the Roman army was withdrawn. It is probable that Caligula 
gave Damascus to Aretas as a free gift, (A. D. 38,) and he is mentioned as 
being king of that city by the apostle Paul. 2 Cor. xi, 32. 

AR'GOB, (Heb. Argob ', ni-ntf, stone-heap ) either an accomplice of 

Pekah in the murder of Pekahiah, or with Arieh'a prince of Pekahiah, 
whose influence Pekah feared, and whom he therefore slew with the king. 
2 Kings xv, 25. B. C. 759. 

ARID'AI, (Heb. Ariday', perhaps strong ,) the ninth of the ten 

sons of Haman, slain by the Jews in Babylonia. Esth. ix, 9. B. C. about 
509. 

ARID'ATHA, (Heb. Aridatha ', NDT^lS!, strong) the sixth son of 
Haman, slain by the Jews. Esth. ix, 8. B. C. about 509. 

ARTEH, (Heb. Ary eh', iTHXn, the lion) either one of the accomplices 

of Pekah in his conspiracy against Pekahiah, king of Israel, or one of the 
princes of Pekahiah, who was put to death with him. 2 Kings xv, 25. 
B. C. 759. 

A'RIEL, (Heb. Ariel', lion of God) one of the “ chief men ” sent 

by Ezra to Iddo at Casiphia to bring ministers for the house of God to go 
with the people to Jerusalem. Ezra viii, 16. B. C. about 457. 

A'RIOCH, (Heb. Ary ok', Tji’HN, venerable, lion-like) 

1. A king of Ellasar, confederate with Chedorlaomer against Sodom 
and Gomorrah. With Chedorlaomer and his other allies Arioch was slain 
by the force under Abraham. Gen. xiv, 1, 9, 17. B. C. 1913. 

2. The captain of the royal guard at the corut of Babylon, who was 
ordered by Nebuchadnezzar to slay the wise men because they could not 
reveal and interpret his dream. Arioch delayed carrying out the king’s 
command at the request of Daniel, who told both the dream and its inter- 
pretation. Dan. ii, 14, 15, 24, 25. B. C. 603. 

ARIS'AI, (Heb. Arisay', arrow of Aria) the eighth of the ten 

sons of Haman, slain by the Jews in Babylonia. Esth. ix, 9. B. C. about 
509. 

ARISTAR'CHUS, (Gr. ’A plarapxoc, the best ruler) a native of Thessa- 
lonica. and a faithful adherent of the apostle Paul in his labors. He became 
ihe companion of Paul in his third missionary tour, accompanying him to 
Ephesus, where he was seized and nearly killed in the tumult raised by the 
silversmiths under Demetrius. Actsxix. 29. B. C. 59. He left that city accom- 
panying Paul to Greece, thence to Asia, (Acts xx, 4,) and subsequently to 
Rome, (Acts xxvii, 2,) whither he was sent as a prisoner, or became such 
while there, (Philem. 24,) for Paul calls him “ his fellow-prisoner.” Col. iv, 10. 
Tradition makes him to have suffered martyrdom in the time of Neio. 

ARISTOBU'LUS, (Gr. ’A pioTopovXoe, best counselor) a person to whose 
household at Rome Paul sends salutation. Rom. xvi, 10. A. D. 60. 


AKMONI— ASA. 


65 


Tradition represents him as a brother of Barnabas, ordained a bishop by 
Barnabas or Paul, and as laboring and dying in Britain. 

ARMQ'NI, (Heb. Armoni of a fortress ,) the first-named of the 

two sons of Saul, by Rizpah, who was given up by David to be hanged by 
the Gibeonites. He was slain with six of li s brethren in the beginning of 
the barley harvest. 2 Sam. xxi, 8, sq. B. C. 1021. 

AR'NAN, (Heb. Arnan ', nimble ,) probably the great-grandson of 

Zerubbabel, in the line of David’s descendants, (1 Chron. iii, 21,) perhaps 
the same with Joanna , (Luke iii, 27.) an ancestor of Jesus. 

A'ROD, (Heb. Arod ThiSh a wild ass,) the sixth son of Gad, (Nura. 

xxvi, P7,) whose descendants were called Arodites. He is called Arodi. 
Gen. xlvi, 16. B. C. about 1700. 

AR'ODI, the same with Arod, (q. v.) 

ARPHAX'AD, (Heb. Arpakshad border or fortress of the 

Chaldeans ,) the first antediluvian patriarch, son of Shem, and father of 
Salah, born two years after the deluge, and died B. 0. 1911, aged 438 years. 
Gen. xi, 10-13; 1 Chron. i, 17, 18. 

ARTAXER'XES, (Gr. ’A pra^ep^r/c, probably the great warrior ox king.) 

1. The Persian king who, at the instigation of the enemies of the Jews, 
obstructed the rebuilding of the temple, (Ezra iv. 7-24; B. C. 522,) which 
ceased until the second year of Darius. B. C. 520. He is doubtless the 
same with the Magian impostor, Smerdis, who seized the throne B. C. 522, 
and was murdered after a usurpation of eight months. 

2. Probably Longimanus, who reigned over Persia forty years. B. C. 
464-425. In the seventh year of his reign he commissioned Ezra to return 
to Jerusalem, granting large privileges to him and those accompanying 
him. Ezra vii, 1, sq. B. C. 457. About thirteen years later (B. C. 445) 
he granted permission to Nehemiah to assume control of the civil affairs at 
Jerusalem. Neh. ii, 1-8. 

ARTE'MAS, (Gr. A prepay given by Diana,) the name of a disciple 
ment ioned in connection with Tychicus, one of whom Paul designed to send 
into Crete to supply the place of Titus, when he invited the latter to visit 
him at Kicopolis. Tit. iii, 12. A. D. 65. According to tradition, he was bishop 
of Lystra. 

AR'ZA, (Heb. Artsa ', XyiN, the earth,) a steward over the house of 

Elah, king of Israel, in whose house at Tirzah, Zimri, the captain of half 
his chariots, conspired against Elah, and killed him during a drunken 
debauch. 1 Kings xvi, 8-10. B. C. 929. 

A'SA, (Heb. Asa', XDK, healing, ox physician.) 

T T 

1. The son and successor of Abijah, king of Judah, who reigned forty- 
one years. B. C. 955-914. (1) Religious Conduct. On assuming the reins 

of government, Asa was conspicuous for his support of the worship of God, 
and opposition to idolatry. Even his grandmother, Maachah, was deposed 
from the rank of “ queen mother,” because she had set up an idol, which 
Asa overthrew and “ burnt by the brook Kidron.” 1 Kings xv, 13. Stilt, 
the old hill-sanctuaries were retained as places of worship. He placed in 


66 


ASAHEL. 


the temple gifts dedicated by his father, and rich offerings of liis own, and 
renewed the altar, which had apparently been desecrated. 2 Chron. xv, 8. 
The first ten years of his reign his kingdom enjoyed peace, which Asa 
improved in fortifying his frontier cities, and raising an army, which num- 
bered at the beginning of hostilities 580,000 men, (2 Chron. xiv, 8 ;) though 
this number has been thought an exaggeration of the copyist. (2) Wars. 
In the eleventh year of his reign, Zerah, the Ethiopian, invaded Judah 
with an army of a million men. Asa besought God for help, and marching 
against Zerah, met and defeated him at Mareshah. He returned to Jerusa- 
lem with the spoil of the cities around Gerar, and with innumerable sheep 
and cattle. 2 Chron. xiv, 9-15. The prophet Azariah met Asa on his return, 
and encouraged him and the people to continue their trust in God. (3) Re- 
forms. Asa carried on his reforms ; a gathering of the people was held 
at Jerusalem, sacrifices offered, and a covenant made with Jehovah. To 
these ceremonies there came many from the kingdom of Israel, believing 
that God was with Asa. 2 Chron. xv. In the 36th year (according to some 
26th) of his reign hostilities were begun by Baasha, king of Israel, who 
fortified Ramah, to prevent his subjects from going over to Asa. (4) Al- 
liance with Benhadad. The good king then committed the great error 
of Ms life. He resorted to an alliance with Benhadad I., of Damascus, 
purchasing his assistance with treasures from the temple and the king’s 
house. Benhadad made a diversion in Asa’s favor by invading Northern 
Israel, whereupon Baasha left Ramah. Asa took the material found there 
and built therewith Geba and Mizpah. His want of faith was reproved by 
the seer Hanani, who told him that he had lost the honor of conquering 
the Syrians because of this alliance, and also prophesied war for the rest of 
his days. Asa, angered at Hanani, put Mm in prison, and oppressed some 
of the people at the same time. (5) Sickness and Death. In the 39th 
year of his reign he was afflicted with a disease in his feet, and “ sought 
not to the Lord,” but depended upon the physicians. The disease proved 
fatal in the 41st year of his reign. He died, greatly beloved, and was hon- 
ored with a magnificent burial. 2 Chron. xv, xvi. 

2. A Levite, son of Elkanah and father of Berechiah, which latter resided 
in one of the villages of the Netophathites after the return from Babylon. 

1 Chron. ix, 16. B. C. after 536. 

A'SAHEL, (Heb. Asah-el', God's creature .) 

1. The son of David’s sister, Zeruiah, and brother of Joab and Abishai. 

2 Sam. ii, 18; 1 Chron. ii, 16. He was an early adherent of David, being 
one of the famous thirty, (2 Sam. xxiii, 24,) and, with his son Zebadiah, 
was commander of the fourth division of the royal army. 1 Chron. xxvii, 7. 
He was renowned for his swiftness of foot, and after the battle of Gibeon he 
pursued and overtook Abner, who reluctantly, and in order to save his own 
life, slew Asahel with a backthrust of his spear. 2 Sam. ii, 18-23. B. C. 
about 1053. Joab, to revenge Asahel’s death, slew Abner some years after 
at Hebron. 2 Sam. iii, 26, 27. 

2. One of the Levites sent by Jehoshaphat into Judah to teach the law of 
the Lord. 2 Chron. xvii, 8. B. C. 912. 

3. One of the Levites appointed by Hezekiah as overseer of the con- 
tributions to the house of the Lord. 2 Chron. xxxi, 13. B. C. 726. 

4. The father of Jonathan, who was one of the elders that assisted Ezra 


ASAHIAH — ASENATH. 67 

in putting away the foreign wives of the Jews on the return from Babylon. 
Ezra x, 15. B. C. 457. 

ASAHI'AH, (Heb. Asayah ', created by Jehovah ,) an officer of 

tt 

Josiah, who was sent with others to consult Huldah, the prophetess, con- 
cerning the book of the law found in the temple. 2 Kings xxii, 12-14. 
B. C. 624. 

ASAI'AH, (Heb. Asayah whom Jehovah made.) 

TT “S 

1. A prince of one of the families of the tribe of Simeon who, in the time 
of Hezekiah, drove out the Hamite shepherds from the rich pastures near 
Gedor. 1 Chron. iv, 36. B. C. about 715. 

2. Tne son of Haggiah, (1 Chron. vi, 30,) and chief of the 220 Levites of 
the family of Merari, appointed by David to remove the ark from the house 
ofObed-edom. 1 Chron. xv, 6, 11. B. C. about 1042. 

3. The “ first-born ” of the Shilonites who returned to Jerusalem after the 
captivity. 1 Chron. ix. 5. B. C. about 536. 

4. The same (2 Chron. xxxiv, 20) with Asahiah, (q. v.) 

A'SAFH, (Heb. Asaph', assembler.) 

1. The father (or ancestor) of Joah, which latter person was u recorder” 
in the time of Hezekiah. 2 Kings xviii, 18, 37 ; Isa. xxxvi, 3, 22. B. C. 
710. 

2. A Levite, son of Berachiah, of the family of Gershom, (1 Chron. vi, 
39 ; xv, 17,) eminent as a musician, and appointed by David to preside over 
the sacred choral services. 1 Chron. xvi, 5. B. C. about 1042. The “ sons of 
Asaph” are afterward mentioned as choristers of the temple, (l Chron. 
xxv, 1, 2; 2 Cliron. xx, 14, and elsewhere;) and this office appears to have 
been made hereditary in the family. 1 Chron. xxv, 1, 2. Asaph was cele- 
brated iu after times as a prophet and poet, (2 Chron. xxix, 30; Neh. xii, 
46,) and the titles of twelve of the Psalms (I, Ixxiii-lxxxiii) bear his name, 
though in some of these (Ixxiv, lxxix, lxxv) the “sons of Asaph ” should 
be understood, as matters of late occurrence are referred to. (Kitto, s. v.) 

3. A “ keeper of the king’s forest,” probably in Lebanon. Nehemiah 
requested Artaxerxes to give him an order on Asaph for timber to be used 
in the rebuilding of the. temple. Neh, ii, 8. B. C. about 445. 

ASA'REEL, (Heb. Asarel', bound by God,) tlie last-named of 

the four sons of Jehaleleel, of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 16. B. C. 
about 1300. 

ASARE'LAK, (Heb. Asharelah ', upright toward God,) one of 

the sous of the Levite, Asaph, who was appointed by David in charge of 
the temple music. 1 Chron. xxv, 2. He is probably the same with Jesarelah , 
(verse 14.) and if so, was in the seventh of the (twenty-four) courses. B. C. 
about 1015. 

AS'E NATH, (Heb. Asenath', D3DX, probably who belongs to Neiih ; that 

is, the Egyptian Minerva,) the daughter of Poti-pherah, priest of On, whom 
the king of Egypt gave in marriage to Joseph. Gen. xli, 45. B. C. 1715. 
She became the mother of Ephraim and -Manasseh. Gen. xlvi, 20. Beyond 
this nothing is known concerning her. 


68 


ASER —ASHPENAZ. 


A'SER, the Graecized form of Asher . Luke ii, 36; Rev. vii, 6. 

ASH'BEA, (Heb. As'bed, adjuration ,) the head of a family men- 

tioned as working in fine linen, a branch of the descendants of Shelah, the 
son of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 21. 

ASH'BEL, (Heb. Ashbel the second son of Benjamin. Gen. 

xlvi, 21 ; 1 Chron. viii, 1. B. C. about 1700. His descendants were called 
Ashbelites. Num. xxvi, 38. 

A SH'CHE N AZ, a less correct form of Anglicizing Ashkenaz, (q. v.,) 
found in 1 Chron. i, 6, and Jer. li, 27. 

ASETER, (Heb. Asher', happiness,) the eighth son of Jacob, and 

second of Zilpah, the maid of Leah. Gen. xxx, 13. B. C. 1747. 

1. Personal History. Of this we have no record. 

2. The Tribe of Asher. (1) Number. Asher had four sons and one 

daughter. Upon quitting Egypt the tribe numbered 41,500, ranking ninth ; 
and at the second census the number had increased to 53,400 men of war, 
ranking fifth in population. (2) Position. During the march through li e 
desert Asher’s place was between Dan and Naphtaii, on the north side of 
the tabernacle. Num. ii, 27. (3) Territory. The general position of the 

tribe was on the sea-shore from Carmel northward, with Manasseh on the 
south, Zebulun and Issachar on the south-east, and Naphtaii on the north- 
east. The boundaries and towns are given in Josh, xix, 24-31 ; xvii, 10, 
11 ; Judg. i, 31, 32. (4) Subsequent History. The richness of live soil, and 

their proximity to the Phoenicians, may have contributed to the degeneracy of 
the tribe. Judg. i, 31 ; v. 17. In the reign of David the tribe had become 
so insignificant that its name is altogether omitted from the list of the chief 
rulers. 1 Chron. xxvii, 16-22. With the exception of Simeon, Asher is the 
only tribe west of the Jordan which furnished no judge or hero to the nation. 
“One name alone shines out of the general obscurity — the aged widow 
‘Anna, the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Aser,’ who in the very close 
of the history departed not from the temple, but ‘ served God with fastings 
and prayers night and day.’ ” — Stanley, Sinai and Palestine. 

ASH'KENAZ, (Heb. Ashkenaz? signification unknown,) the first- 

named of the three sons of Gomer, son of Japhet. Gen. x, 3. B. C. about 
2347. The name is spelled Ashchenaz in 1 Chron. i, 6, and Jer. li, 27. In 
the latter, reference is made to his descendants as constituting a kingdom 
in Armenia, or, at least, not far from it. “ There are various conjectures as 
to its precise locality.” 

ASHKENAZ, (Heb. Ashpenaz' , possibly nose of the horse.) mas- 

ter of the eunuchs, a chamberlain of Nebuchadnezzar, (B. C. about 607,) who 
was commanded to select certain Jewish captives to be instructed in “the 
learning and tongue of the Chaldeans.” Dan. i, 3. Among those whom he 
selected were Daniel and his three companions, Hananiah, Mishael, and 
Azariah, whose Hebrew names he changed to Chaldee. Dan. i, 7. The 
request of Daniel, that he might not be compelled to eat the provisions sent 
from the king’s table, filled Ashpenaz with apprehension. But God had 
brought Daniel into favor with Ashpenaz, and he did not use constraint 
toward him, which kindness the prophet gratefully records. Dan. i, 16. 


ASHRIEL — ASYNCRITUS. 


69 


ASH'RIEL, in 1 Chron. vii, 14, more properly Asriel, (q. v.) 

ASH'UR, (Heb. Ashchur ', blackness,) a posthumous son of Hez- 

ron, (grandson of Judah, Gen. xlvi, 12,) by his wife Abiah. 1 Chron. ii, 24. 

B. C. about 1471. He had two wives, Helah and Naarah, by each of whom 
he had several sons, (l Chron. iv, 5,) and through these he is called the 
“ father ” (founder) of Tekoa, which appears to have been the place of their 
eventual settlement. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopcedia, s. v.) 

ASH'VATH, (Heb. Ashvath', JYlKty, perhaps bright,) the last-named of 
the three sons of Japhlet, great-grandson of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 33. 

A'SIEL, (Heb. Asiel', created by God,) the father of Seraiah, and 

progenitor of one of the Simeonite chiefs that expelled the Hamites from 
the Valley of Gedor, in the time of Hezekiah. 1 Chron. iv, 35. B. C. before 
715. 

AS'NAH, (Heb. Asnah ', H3DK, thorn, or perhaps store-house ,) the head 

of one of the families of the Nethinim (temple servants) that returned from 
the Babylonian captivity with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 50. B. C. about 536. 
AS'NAFFER, (Heb. Osnapper', *1Q3DS ; ) the name of an Assyrian king 

2 T 

or satrap, - who is said to have planted colonies in Samaria. Ezra iv, 10. 

B. C. about 678. On the supposition that a king of Assyria is meant, and 
by comparison with 2 Kings xvii, 24, many identify him with Shalmaneser. 
Others identify him with Esarhaddon and Sennacherib. 

AS'PATHA, (Heb. Aspatha ', W13DX) given by a horse,) the third of the 
sons of Haman, slain by the Jews of Babylonia. Esth. ix, 7. B. C. about 509. 
AS'RIEL, (Heb. AsrieV t vow of God,) a son of Gilead and 

great-grandson of Manasseh. Num. xxvi, 31 ; Josh, xvii, 2. B. C. about 
1450. In 1 Chron. vii, 14, the name is Anglicized Ashriel. 

AS'SHUR, (Heb. Ashshur ', "Vl$N, a step,) the second-named of the sons 

of Shem. Gen. x, 22 ; 1 Chron. i, 17. B. C. about 2218. His descendants 
peopled the land of Assyria. The word appears in Gen. x, 1 1 , as if it were 
the name of a person, but the verse should be rendered as in the margin, 
“he went out into Assyria.” 

AS'SIR', (Heb. Assir', TDK, prisoner.) 

1. A Levite, son of Korah, (Exod. vi, 24; 1 Chron. vi, 22. B. C. about 
1530. His descendants constituted one of the Korhite families. 

2. Son of Ebiasaph, great-grandson of the preceding, and father of Ta- 
hath. 1 Chron. vi, 23, 37. There is some suspicion, however, that the name , 
here has crept in by repetition from the preceding. (M’Clintock and Strong’s j 
Cyclopcedia, s. v.) 

3. Son of Jeconiah, a descendant of David, (1 Chron. iii, 17,) unless the 
true rendering is, “ Jeconiah the captive,” referring to the captivity of that 
prince in Babylon. 

ASYN'CRITUS, (Gr. AcvyicpiToc, not to be compared ,) the name of a 
Christian at Rome to whom St. Paul sends salutation. Rom. xvi, 14. 

A. D. 60. 


70 


ATAD — ATHALIAH. 


A'TAD, (Heb. Atad', ItpX. a, thorn.) It is uncertain whether Atad is the 

name of a person or a descriptive appellation given to a “ thorny ” locality. 
At the threshing-floor of Atad the sons of Jacob, and the Egyptians who 
accompanied them, “made a mourning” for Jacob seven days. Gen. 1, 10, 
11. B. C. 1689. 

AT'ARAH, (Heb. A tar ah', rnpy, a crown,) the second wife of Jerah- 

meel, of the tribe of Judah, and mother of Onam. 1 Chron. ii, 26. B. C. 
about 1471. 

A'TER, (Heb. A ter', “iBN, shut up.) 

1. A person “ of ” (probably descendant of) Hezekiah, whose family to 
the number of 98 returned from the captivity. Ezra ii, 16; Neh. vii, 21. 
B. C. ante 536. 

2. The head of a family of Levitical “porters” to the temple, whose de- 
scendants went up to Jerusalem at the same time with the above. Ezra ii, 
42 ; Nell, vii, 45. B. C. before 536. 

3. One of the chief Israelites that subscribed the sacred covenant with 
Nehemiah. Neh. x, 17. B. C. about 445. 

ATHAFAH, (Heb. Athayah', JTny, perhaps the same as Asaiah,) a 

son of Uzziah, of the tribe of Judah, who dwelt in Jerusalem after the 
return from Babylon. Neh. xi, 4. B. C. 445. 

ATHALI'AH, (Heb. Athalyah', JT^ny, afflicted by Jehovah .) 

1. The daughter of Ahab, king of Israel, doubtless by his wife Jezebel. 

She is called (2 Chron. xxii, 2) the daughter of Omri, who was father of 
Ahab, but by a comparison of texts it would appear that she is so called only 
as being his granddaughter. (1) Idolatry, She was married to Jehoram, 
king of Judah, who “walked in the way of the house of Ahab,” no doubt 
owing to her influence, “for he had the daughter of Ahab to wife.” 2 Chron. 
xxi, 6. After the death of Jehoram, Ahaziah came to the throne, arid he 
also walked in the way of Ahab’s house, following the wicked counsel of 
his mother. 2 Chron. xxii, 2, 3. (2) Reign. Ahaziah reigned one year, 

and was slain by Jehu, whereupon Athaliah resolved to seat herself upon 
the throne of David. She caused all the male members of the royal family 
to be put. to death; one only, Joash, the son of Ahaziah, escaping. 2 Kings 
xi, 1. B. C. 884, Athaliah usurped the throne for six years, 884-878. 
Joash, in the meantime, had been concealed in the temple by his aunt, Jeho- 
sheba, the wife of Jehoiada, the high-priest. In the seventh year, Jehoiada 
resolved to produce the young prince, and arrangements having been made 
for defense in case of necessity, Joash was declared king. Athaliah, who 
was probably worshiping in the house of Baal, was aroused by the shouts 
of the people, and repaired to the temple, where her cry of “ treason ” only 
secured her own arrest. (3) Death. She was taken beyond the sacred 
precincts of the temple and put to death. The only other recorded victim 
of this revolution was Mattan, the priest of Baal. 2 Kings xi, ], sq.; 2 Chron. 
xxiii, 1-17. 

2. A Benjamite, one of the sons of Jeroham, who dwelt at Jerusalem. 
1 Chron. viii, 26. 

3. The father of Jeshaiah, which latter was one of the “ sons ” of Elam 


AT H LAI — AZAREEL. 71 

that returned with TO dependents from Babylon under Ezra. Ezra viii, 7. 
B. C. about 457. 

ATH'LAI, (Heb. Athlay', oppressive ,) one of the “ sons of Bebai,” 

who put away his strange wife on the return from Babylon. Ezra x, 28. 
B. C. 456. 

AT'TAI, (Heb. Attay ', opportune.) 

1. The son of a daughter of Sheshan, of the tribe of Judah, by his Egyp- 
tian servant, Jarha. He was the father of Nathan. 1 Chron. ii, 35, 36. 

2. One of David’s mighty men, of the tribe bf Gad, who joined David at 
Ziklag, whither he had fled from Saul. 1 Chron. xii, 11. B. C. about 1058. 

3. The second of the four sons of king Rehoboam, by his second wife, 
Maachah, the daughter of Absalom. 2 Chron. xi, 20. JB. C. 974. 

AUGUS'TUS, the imperial title assumed by Octavius, the successor of 
Julius Caesar. He was born A. U. C. 691, B. C. 63, and was principally 
educated by his great-uncle, Julius Caesar, who made him his heir. After 
the death of Caesar, he acquired such influence that Antony and Lepidus 
took him into their triumvirate. He afterward shared the empire with An- 
tony, and attained supreme power after the battle of Actium, B. C. 31, being 
saluted imperator by the senate, who conferred on him the title Augustus 
in B. C. 27. He forgave Herod, who had espoused the cause of Antony, 
and even increased his power. After the death of Herod (A. D. 4) his 
dominions were divided among his sons by Augustus, almost in exact ac- 
cordance with his will. Augustus was emperor at the birth and during 
half the life-time of our Lord, but his name occurs only once (Luke ii, 1) in 
the New Testament, as the emperor who ordered the enrollment in conse- 
quence of which Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem, the place where the 
Messiah was to be born. 

AZALI'AH, (Heb. Atsalya'hu , , reserved by Jehovah ,) the son of 

Meshullam and father of Shaphan the scribe. The latter was sent with 
others by Josiah to repair the temple. 2 Kings xxii, 3 ; 2 Chron. xxxiv, 8. 
B. C. about 624. 

AZANI'AH, (Heb. Azanyah', JT3TN, whom Jehovah hears ,) the father of 

Jesliua, which latter was one of the Levites that subscribed the sacred cov- 
enant after the exile. Neh. x, 9. B. C. 445. 

AZAR'AEIi. Neh. xii, 36. See Azareel, (5.) 

AZA'REEL, (Heb. Azarel', helped by God.) 

1. One of the Korhites who joined David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 6. 
B. C. about 1058. 

2. The head of the eleventh division of the musicians of the temple, 
(1 Chron. xxv, 18,) called Uzziel in verse 4. B. C. about 1015. 

3. The son of Jeroham, and prince of the tribe of Dan, when David num- 
bered the people. 1 Chron. xxvii, 22. B. C. about 1015. 

4. An Israelite, descendant of Bani, who renounced his Gentile wife after 
the return from Babylon. Ezra x, 41. B. C. 456. 

5. The son of Ahasai and father of Amashai, which last was one of the 
chiefs of 128 mighty men who served at the temple under the supervision 
of Zabdiel on the restoration from Babylon. Neh. xi, 13, 14. B. C. 445. 



AZARIAH. 


He is probably the same with one of the first company of priests who were 
appointed with Ezra to make the circuit of the newly-completed walls with 
trumpets in their hands, (Neh. xii, 36,) where the name is rendered 
Azarael. 


It is 


AZAR'IAH, (Heb. Azaryah ', fTHTJJ, helped by Jehovah ,) a common 

name in Hebrew, and especially in the families of the priests of the line of 
Eleazar, whose name has precisely the same meaning as Azariah. 
nearly identical and is often 
confounded with Ezra, as well 
as with Zeraiah and Serai ah. 

1. A son or descendant of 
Zadok, the high-priest, in the 
time of David and one of Solo- 
mon’s princes. 1 Kings iv, 2. 

B. C. 1014. He is probably the 
same with No. 6 below. 

2. A son of Nathan, and cap- 
tain of King Solomon’s guards. 

1 Kings iv, 5. B. C. 1014. 

3. Son and successor of Am- 
aziah, king of Judah, (2 Kings 
xiv, 2 1 ; xv, 1, sq. ; 1 Chron. 
iii, 12,) more frequently called 
Uzziah, (q. v.) 

4. Son of Ethan, and great- 
grandson of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 

8. B. C. about 1727. 

5. The son of Jehu and fa- 
ther of Helez of the tribe of 
Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 38, 39. 

6. A high-priest, son of Ahi- 
maaz, and grandson of Zadok, 

(1 Chron. vi, 9,) whom he seems 
to have immediately succeeded. 

1 Kings iv, 2. He is probably 
the same with No. 1 above. 

7. The son of Johanan and 
father of Amariah, a high- 
priest. 1 Citron, vi, 10, 11. He 
was probably high-priest in the 
reigns of Abijah and Asa, as his 
son Amariah was in the days 
of Jehoshaphat. (Smith, s. v.) 

8. The son of Hilkiah and father of Seraiah, which latter was the last 
high-priest before the captivity. 1 Chron. vi, 13, 14; ix, 11; Ezra vii, 1. 
B. C. about 600. 

9. A Levite, son of Zephaniah and father of Joel. 1 Chron. vi, 36. In 
verse 24 he is called Uzziah. It appears from 2 Chron. xxix, 12, that his 
son Joel lived under Hezekiah, and was engaged in the cleansing of the 
temple. B. C. ante 726. 


HIGH-PRIEST IN FULL COSTUME. 


AZAZ — AZAZIAH, 


73 


10. The proohet who met king Asa on his return from a victory over 
Zerah, the Ethiopian, (2 Chron. xv, 1,) where he is called the son of Oded, 
but Oded simply in verse 8. B. C. 941. He exhorted Asa to put away 
idolatry and restore the altar of G-od before the porch of the temple. A 
national reformation followed, participated in by representatives out of all 
Israel. Keil ( Commentary ) thinks Obed in ver. 8 is an interpolation. 

11. Two sons of King Jelioshaphat. 2 Chron. xxi, 2. B. G. 889. M’Clintock 
and Strong ( s . v.) conjecture that there is a repetition of name, and that 
there was but one son of that name. 

12. A clerical error (2 Chron. xxii, 6) for Ahaziah, (q. v.,) king of Judah. 

13. A son of Jeroham, one of the “ captains ” who assisted Jehoiada in 
restoring the worship of the throne, opposing Athaliah and placing Joash 
on the throne. 2 Chron. xxiii, 1. B. C. 878. 

14. The son of Obed, another of the “ captains ” who assisted in the 
same enterprise. 2 Chron. xxiii, 1. B. C. 878. 

15. High-priest in the reign of Uzziah. When the king, elated by his 
success, ‘‘went into the temple of the Lord to burn incense,” Azariah went 
in after him, accompanied by eighty of his brethren, and withstood him. 
2 Chron. xxvi, 17, sq. B. C. about 765. 

16. Son of John nan, and a chief of the tribe of Ephraim, one of those who 
protested against enslaving their captive brethren, that were taken in the 
invasion of Judah by Pekah. 2 Chron. xxviii, 12. B. C. about 741. 

17. A Merarite, son of Jehalelel, who was one of those who cleansed the 
temple in the time of Hezekiah. 2 Chron. xxix, 12. B. C. 726. 

18. A high-priest in the time of Hezekiali. 2 Chron. xxxi, 10, 13. B. 0. 
*726. He appears to have co-operated zealously with the king in that thor- 
ough purification of the temple and restoration of the temple services which 
was so conspicuous a feature in his reign. 

19. The lather of Amariah, and an ancestor of Ezra. Ezra vii, 3. 

20. Son of Maaseiah, who repaired part of the wall of Jerusalem, (Neh. 
iii, 23, 24;) was one of the Levites who assisted Ezra in expounding the 
law, (Neh. viii, 7;) sealed the covenant with Nehemiah, (Neh. x, 2;) and 
assisted at the dedication of the city wall. Neh. xii, 33. 

21. One of the nobles who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Neh. 
vii, 7. B. C. 536. Called Seraiah in Ezra ii, 2. 

22. One of the “proud men” who rebuked Jeremiah for advising the 
people that remained in Palestine, after their brethren had been taken to 
Babylon, not to go down into Egypt; and who took the prophet himself 
and Baruch with them to that country. Jer. xliii, 2-7. B. C. 588. 

23. The Hebrew name of Abednego, (q. v.,) one of Daniel’s three friends 
who were cast into the fiery furnace. Dan. i, 7. B. C. 606. 

A'ZAZ, (Heb. Azaz', Tty, strong,) a Reubenite, the son of Shema and 
father of Bela. 1 Chron. v, 8. 

AZAZTAH, (Heb. Azazya'hu , ^ITTTfy strengthened by Jehovah.) 

1. One of the Levites who were appointed to play the harp in the serv- 
ice of the tabernacle at the time when the ark was brought up from Obed- 
edom. 1 Chron. xv, 21. B. C. about 1042. 

2. The father of Hoshea, who was prince of the tribe of Ephraim when 
David numbered the people. 1 Chron. xxvii, 20. B. C. about 1015. 


74 


AZBUK— AZRIKAM. 


3. One of those who had charge of the temple offerings in the time of 
Hezekiah. 2 Chron. xxxi, 13. B. C. 726. 

AZ'BUK, (Heb. Azbuk', psQfy, strong devastation ,) the father of Nehe- 

miah, who was the ruler of the half of Beth-zar, and who repaired part of the 
wall after the return from Babylon. Nell, iii, 16. B. C. before 445. 

A'ZEL, (Heb. Atsel', noble,) the son of Eleasah, of the descendants 

•* T 

of King Saul. 1 Chron. viii, 37, 38 ; ix, 43. . 

AZ'GAD, (Heb. Azgad', ‘Bity, strong in fortune ,) an Israelite whose de- 
scendants, to the number of 1,222, (2,322 according to Neh. vii, 17,) returned 
from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 12. A second detachment of 110, 
with Johanan at their head, accompanied Ezra. Ezra, viii, 12. Probably 
the Azgad (Neh. x, 15) is the same person, some of whose descendants joined 
in the covenant with Nehemiah. 

A'ZIEL, a shortened form (1 Chron. xv, 20) for Jaaziel, (q. v.,) in 
verse 18. 

AZrZA, (Heb. Aziza', KPTJJ, strong,) an Israelite, descendant of Zattu, 

who divorced the Gentile wife he had married after his return from Baby- 
lon. Ezra x, 27. B. C. 456. 

AZMA'VETH, (Heb. Azma'vefh , JTltDtSh strong as death) 

1. A Barhumite, (or Baharumite,) one of David’s thirty warriors, (2 Sam. 
xxiii, 31 ; 1 Chron. xi, 33,) and father of two of his famous slingers. 1 Chron. 
xii, 3. B. C. about 1060. 

2. The second of the three sons of Jehoadah, (1 Chron. viii, 36,) or Jarah, 
(ix, 42,) a descendant of Jonathan. B. C. after 1030. 

3. A son of Adiel, and keeper of the royal treasury of David. 1 Chron. 
xxvii, 25. B. C. about 1015. 

A'ZOR, (Gr. ’AC<wp, from "fly, to help, the son of Eliakim and father of 
Sadoc, in the paternal ancestry of Christ Matt i, 13. 

AZ'RIEL, (Heb. Azriel', help of God.) 

1. A mighty man of valor, and one of the heads of the half-tribe of Ma- 
nasseh beyond Jordan, who were taken into captivity by the king of Assyria 
as a punishment for their national idolatry. 1 Chron. v, 24. B. C. about 
740. 

2. The father of Jerimoth, which latter was ruler of the tribe of Naphtali 
under David. 1 Chron. xxvii, 19. B. C. about 1015. 

3. The father of Seraiah, who with others was appointed by king Jehoia- 
kim to apprehend Baruch, the scribe, and Jeremiah, for sending him a threat- 
ening prophecy. Jer. xxxvi, 26. B. C. 606. 

AZ'RIKAM, (Heb. Azrikam ', DjT“lTy> help against the enemy) 

1. The last-named of the three sons of Neariah, a descendant of Zernbba- 
bel. 1 Chron. iii, 23. B. C. about 404. He is perhaps the same as Azor, 
(q. v.) 

2. The first of the six sons of Azel, of the tribe of Benjamin. 1 Chron. 
viii, 38 ; ix, 44. 


AZUBAH — BAANAH. 75 

3. A Levite, son of Hasliabiah and father of Hasshub. 1 Chron. ix, 14; 
Neh. xi, 15. B. C. before 536. 

4. The governor of the king’s bouse in the time of Ahaz, slain by Zichri, 
a mighty man of Ephraim. 2 Chron. xxviii, 7. B. C. 741. 

AZU'BAH, (Heb. Azubah' , rmy, ruins, forsaken.) 

1. The daughter of Shillii and mother of King Jehoshaphat. 1 Kings xxii, 
42; 2 Chron. xx, 31. B. C. 949. 

2. The wife of Caleb, the son of Hezron. 1 Chron ii, 18, 19. B. C. about 
1471. See Jerioth. 

A'ZUR, (a less correct form of Azzur, helper.) 

1. The father of Hananiah of Gibeon, winch latter was the prophet who 
falsely encouraged King Zedekiah against the Babylonians. Jer. xxviii, 1. 
B. C. about 596. 

2. The father of Jaazaniah, who was one of the men whom the prophet 
in vision saw devising false schemes of safety for Jerusalem. Ezek. xi, 1. 
B. C. 594. 

AZ'ZAN, (Heb. Azzan', jftj, perhaps a thorn,) the father of Paltiel, the 

prince of the tribe of Issachar, and commissioner from that tribe in the 
dividing of Canaan. Num. xxxiv, 26. B. C. 1452. 

AZ'ZUR, (Heb. Azzur', “tfj/, helper,) one of the chief Israelites who signed 

the covenant with Nehemiah on the return from Babylon. Neh. x, 17. 
B. C. 445. 

BA'AL, (Heb. the same, lord or master.) 

1. A Reubenite, son of Reaia. His son Beerah was among the captives 
carried away by Tiglath-Pilezer. 1 Chron. v, 5. B. C. before 740. 

2. The fourth-named of the sons of Jehiel, the founder of Gibeon, by his 
wife Maachah. 1 Chron. viii, 30; ix, 36. B. C. before 1200. 

BA'AL-HA'NAN, (Heb. Ba'dl-chanan', lord of gra.ce. ) 

1. An early king of Edom, son of Achbor, successor of Saul, and suc- 
ceeded by Hadar. Gen. xxxvi, 38, 39; 1 Chron. i, 49, 50. B. C. after 1676. 

2. A Gederite, David’s overseer of “ the olive-trees and sycamore-trees in 
the low plains.” 1 Chron. xxvii, 28. B. C. 1017. 

BA'ALIS, (Heb. Badlis ', son of exultation ,) king of the Ammon- 

ites about the time of the Babylonian captivity, whom Johanan reported to 
Gedaliah, the viceroy, as having sent Ishraael to slay him. Jer. xl, 13, 14. 
B. C. 588. 

BA' AN A, (Heb. Baana', son of affliction.) 

1. The son of Ahilud, one of Solomon’s twelve purveyors, whose district 
comprised Taanach, Megiddo, and all Beth-shean, with the adjacent region. 
1 Kings iv, 12. B. C. 1014. 

2. The father of Zadok, which latter person assisted in rebuilding the 
walls of Jerusalem under Nehemiah. Neh. iii, 4. B. C. 445. 

BA' AN AH, (Heb. Baanah', HOT, another form of Baana ) 

1. A son of Rimmon, the Beerothite. He, with his brother Rechab, slew 


76 


BAARA— BALAAM. 


Ishbosheth while he lay in his bed, and took the head to David in Hebron. 
For this David caused them to be put to death, their hands and feet to be 
cut off, and their bodies, thus mutilated, hung up over the pool at Hebron. 
2 Sam. iv, 2-12. B. C. about 1048. 

2. A Netophathite, father of Heleb, or Heled, which latter person was one 
of David’s mighty men. 2 Sam. xxiii, 29 ; 1 Chron. xi, 30. B. C. before 1060. 

3. The son of Hushai, and purveyor of King Solomon. His district was in 
Asher and Aloth. 1 Kings iv, 16. B. C. 1014. The name should be trans- 
lated Baana. 

BAARA, (Heb. Ba'ara , fcoyil, brutish ,) one of the wives of Shaharaim, 

of the tribe of Benjamin. 1 Chron. viii, 8. In verse 9, by some error, she 
is called Hodesh. 

BAASEI'AH, (Heb. Baaseyah ', work of Jehovah ,) a Gershonile 

Levite, son of Malchiah and father of Michael, in the lineage of Asaph the 
singer. 1 Chron. vi, 40. B. C. about 1300. 

BA' ASH A, (Heb. Basha ', to he had , or to work,) the third sov- 

ereign of the separate kingdom of Israel, and the founder of its second 
dynasty. He reigned B. C. 953-930. Baasha was the son of Ahijah, of the 
tribe of Issacliar, and conspired against King Nadab, the son of Jeroboam, 
(when he was besieging the Philistine town of Gibbethon,) and killed him 
and his whole family. 1 Kings xv, 27, sq. He was probably of humble 
origin, as the prophet Jehu speaks of him as being “ exalted out of the 
dust.” 1 Kings xvi, 2. In matters of religion his reign was no improve- 
ment on that of Jeroboam, and he was chiefly remarkable for his hostility to 
Judah. He built Ramah “ that he might not suffer any to go out or come 
in to Asa, king of Judah.” 1 Kings xv, 17. He was compelled to desist by 
the unexpected alliance of Asa with Benhadad I. of Damascus. Baasha 
died in the 24th year of his age, and was honorably buried in Tirzah, which 
he had made his capital. 1 Kings xv, 33 ; xvi, 6. For his idolatries the 
prophet Jehu declared to him the determination of God to exterminate his 
family, which was accomplished in the days of his. son Elah, by Zimri. 
1 Kings xvi, 10-13. 

BAKBAK'KAR, (Heb. Bakhakkar ', “lgapa, perhaps wasting of the 

mount,) one of the Levites inhabiting the villages of the Netophathites, 
after the return from Babylon. 1 Chron. ix, 15. B. C. about 536. 

BAK'BUK, (Heb. Bakhuk ', pJQpa, « bottle,) the head of one of the fami- 
lies of the Nethinim that returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra 
ii, 51 ; Neh. vii, 53. B. C. about 536. 

BAKBUKI'AH, (Heb. Bakhukyah ', rPp3p2, probably wasting of Jeho- 
vah,) a Levite, “ second among his brethren^” who dwelt at Jerusalem on 
the return from Babylon. Neh. xi, 17. He was also employed on the 
watches, and porter of the gates. Neh. xii, 9, 25. B. C. about 536. 

BALAAM, (Heb. Bilamf, Dy^Q, foreigner ,) the son of Beor, and living 

at Pethor, which is said, in Deut. xxiir, 4, to have been a city of Mesopotamia. 
Although doubtless belonging to the Midianites, (Nura. xxxi, 8,) he pos- 


BALAC— BALAK. 


77 


sessed some knowledge of the true God, and acknowledged that his supe- 
rior powers as poet and prophet were derived from God, and were his gift. 
His fame was very great, and he became self-conceited and covetous. 
The Israelites having encamped in the plains of Moab, (B. C. 1452,) Balak, 
the king of Moab, entered into a league with the Midianites against them, 
and sent messengers to Balaam with “ the rewards of divination in their 
hands.” Nura. xxii, 5, sq. Balaam seems to have had some misgivings as to 
the lawfulness of their request, for he invited them to remain over night, 
that he might know how God would regard it. These misgivings were 
confirmed by the express prohibition of God upon his journey. Balaam in- 
formed the messenger of God’s answer, and they returned to Balak. A 
still more honorable embassy was sent to Balaam, with promises of reward 
and great honor. He replied that he could not be tempted by reward, but 
would speak what God should reveal. He requested them to tarry for the 
night, that he might know what the Lord would say unto him more. His 
importunity secured to him the permission to accompany Balak’s messengers 
with the divine injunction to speak as God should dictate. Balaam in the 
morning proceeded with the princes of Moab. But “ God’s anger was kindled 
against him, and the angel of the Lord stood in the way for an adversary 
against him.” Though Balaam saw not the angel, the ass which he rode 
was aware of his presence. At first it turned into the field; again, in its 
terror, it pressed against the wall, squeezing Balaam’s foot ; upon the third 
appearance of the angel, there being no way of escape, it fell down. This 
greatly enraged Balaam, who smote her with a stick, whereupon the ass 
questioned Balaam as to the cause of the beating. He soon became aware 
of the presence of the angel, who accused him of perverseness. Balaam 
offered to return, the angel, however, told him to go on, but to speak only as 
God should tell him. Meeting Balak he announced to him his purpose of 
saying only what the Lord should reveal. According to his directions 
seven altars were prepared, upon each of which Balak and Balaam offered 
a bullock and a ram. Thrice Balaam essayed to speak against Israel, but 
his utterances were overruled by God, so that, instead of cursings, there 
were blessings and magnificent prophecies, reaching forward until they 
told of “a star” rising “out of Jacob.” Num. xxiv, 17. Balaam advised 
the expedient of seducing the Israelites to commit fornication. Num. xxxi, 
16. The effect of this is recorded in chap. xxv. A battle was afterward 
fought with the Midianites, in which Balaam sided with them, and was 
slain. Num. xxxi, 8. B. C. 1452. 

BA'LAC, another form of Balak. Rev. ii, 14. 

BAL'ADAN, (Heb. Baladan ', worshiper of Bel, or wealthy.) 

1. The father of Merodach-baladan, king of Babylon in the time of Hez- 
ekiah, king of Judah. 2 Kings xx, 12'; Isa. xxxix, 1. B. C. before 713. 

2. A surname of Merodach-baladan, (Isa. xxxix, 1,) or Berodach-baladan 
himself. 2 Kings xx, 12. 

BA'LAK, (Heb. Balak', empty , emptier ,) the son of Zippor, and king 

of the Moabites. Num. xxii, 2, 4. He was so terrified at the approach of 
the victorious army of the Israelites, who, in their passage through the 
desert, had encamped near the confines of his territory, that he applied to 
Balaam to curse them. B. C. 1452. His designs being frustrated in this 


78 


BANI— BARAK. 


direction, he acted upon Balaam’s suggestion, and seduced the Israelites to 
commit fornication. Num. xxv, 1 ; Rev. ii, 14. (Kitto.) 

BA'NI, (Heb. Bani', *03, built.) 

1. A Gadite, one of David’s mighty men. 2 Sam. xxiii, 36. B. C. 1046. 

2. A Levite, son of Shamer and father of Amzi, a descendant of Merari. 
1 Chron. vi, 46. B. C. before 1300. 

3. A descendant of Pharez and father of Imri, one of whose descendants 
returned from Babylon. 1 Chron. ix, 4. B. C. long before 536. 

4. One whose “ children,” (descendants or retainers,) to the number of 
642, returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 10. He is elsewhere 
(Neh. vii, 15) called Binnui. He is probably the one mentioned (Nell, x, 14) 
as having sealed the covenant. 

5. The name of Bani is given (Ezra x, 29, 34, 38) three times as one who, 
either himself or his descendants, had taken strange wives after the 
captivity. 

6. A Levite, whose son, Relium, repaired a portion of the wall of Jeru- 
salem. Neh. iii, IT. Apparently the same Bani was among those who 
were conspicuous in all the reforms on the return from Babylon. Nehemiah 
viii, 7 ; ix, 4, 5 ; x, 13. He had another son named Uzzi, who was ap- 
pointed overseer of the Levites at Jerusalem ; his own father’s name was 
Hashabiah. Neh. xi, 22. 

BARAB'BAS, (G-r. B apaC3/3dc, for Chald. X3X * 13 , son of Abba,) a robber 

who had committed murder in an insurrection (Mark xv, 7 ; Luke xxiii, 19) 
in Jerusalem, and was lying in prison at the time of the trial of Jesus be- 
fore Pilate. A. D. 29. The latter, in his anxiety to save Jesus, proposed 
to release him to the people, in accordance with their demand that he 
should release one prisoner to them at the Passover. Barabbas was guilty 
of the crimes of murder and sedition, making him liable to both Roman 
and Jewish law. But the Jews were so bent on the death of Jesus,' that 
of the two they preferred pardoning this double criminal. Matt, xxvii, 20 ; 
Mark xv, 11; Luke xxiii, 18; John xviii, 40. “Pilate, willing to content 
the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus ... to be 
crucified.” Mark xv, 15. 

BAR'ACHEL, (Heb. Barakel' , $>N333, whom God has blessed,) the father 

of Elihu, the Buzite, one of the three “friends” who visited Job in his 
affliction. Job xxxii, 2, 6. B. C. about 1520. 

BARACHTAH. See Berechiah. 

BARACHFAS, (Gr. B apaxiac = Barachiah ,) the father of the Zechariah 
(Zacharias) mentioned in Matt, xxiii, 35, as having been murdered by the 
Jews. See Zechariah. 

BA'RAK, (Heb. Bar ah', p33, lightning ,) the son of Abinoam of Kadesli, 

a city of refuge in the tribe of Napthali. 

Personal History. He was summoned by the prophetess Deborah to 
take the field against the army of the Cahaanitisli king, Jabin, commanded 
by Sisera, with a force of 10,000 men from the tribes of Naphtali and 
Zebulun. He was further instructed to proceed to Mount Tabor, for Jeho- 
vah would draw Sisera and his host to meet him at the river Kishon, and 


BARIAH— BARKOS. 


79 


deliver him into his hand. Barak consented only on the condition that Deb- 
orah would go with him, which she readily promised. Sisera, being in- 
formed of Barak’s movements, proceeded against him with his whole 
army, including 900 chariots. At a signal given by the prophetess, the 
little army, seizing the opportunity of a providential storm, boldly rushed 
down the hill and utterly routed the host of the Canaanites. The victory 
was decisive: Harosheth was taken, Sisera murdered, and Jabin ruined. 
Judges iv. B. C. 1296. The victory was celebrated by the beautiful hymn 
of praise composed by Bafak in conjunction with Deborah. Judges v. 
Barak is included in the list of the faithful worthies of the Old Testament. 
Heb. xi, 32. 



PROBABLE BATTLE GROUND OF BARAK AND SISERA. 


BARI'AH, (Heb. Bari'ctch, fTO, fugitive ,) one of the five sons of Shem- 

aiah, of the descendants of David, (who are counted as six, including their 
father.) 1 Chron. iii, 22. B. 0. before 410. 

BAR-JE'SUS, (son of Joshua.) otherwise called Elymas, (q. v.,) who 
withstood Barnabas and Paul. Acts xiii, 6. 

BAR-JO'NA, (son of Jonah,) the patronymic of the apostle Peter. Matt, 
xvi, 17 ; comp. John i, 42. 

BAR'KOS, (Heb. Barkos ', Dip*13 ; probably painter ,) the head of one of 

the families of Hethinim that returned from the captivity with Zerubbabel. 
Ezra i : , 53 ; Hell, vii, 55. B. C. 536. 


80 


BARNABAS — BARTHOLOMEW. 


BAR'NABAS, (G-r. Ba.pva.8ac, son of prophecy,) the name given by the 
apostles to Joses, (Acts iv, 36,) probably on account of his eminence as a 
Christian teacher. 

Personal History. Barnabas was a native of Cyprus T and a Levite by 
extraction. (1) Charity. Being possessed of land, he generously disposed 
of it for the benefit of the Christian community, and laid the money at the 
apostles’ feet. Acts iv, 36, 37. As this transaction occurred soon after the 
day of Pentecost, lie must have been an early convert to Christianity. 
(2) Associated with Paul. When Paul made his first appearance in Jeru- 
salem, Barnabas brought him to the apostles and attested his sincerity. Acts 
ix, 27. Word being brought to Jerusalem of the revival at Antioch, Bar- 
nabas (who is described as “ a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and 
of faith ”) was sent to make inquiry. Finding the work to be genuine, ho 
labored among them for a time, fresh converts being added to the Church 
through his personal efforts. He then went to Tarsus to obtain the assist- 
ance of Saul, who returned with him to Antioch, where they labored for a 
whole 3 r ear. Acts xi, 19-26. In anticipation of the famine predicted by 
Agabus, the Christians at Antioch made a contribution for their poor breth- 
ren at Jerusalem, and sent it by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. Acts 
xi, 27-30. A. D. 44. They, however, speedily returned, bringing with 
them John Mark, a nephew of the former. Acts xii, 25. (3) First Mis- 

sionary Journey. By divine direction (Acts xiii, 2) they were separated to 
ti e office of missionaries, and as such visited Cyprus and some of the prin- 
cipal cities in Asia Minor. Acts xiii, 14. At Lystra, because of a miracle 
performed by Paul, they were taken for gods, the people calling Barnabas 
Jupiter. Chap, xiv, 8-12. Returning to Antioch, they found the peace of 
the Church disturbed by certain from Judea, who insisted upon the Gentile 
converts being circumcised. Paul and Barnabas, with others, were sent to 
Jerusalem to consult with the apostles and elders. They returned to com- 
municate the result of the conference, accompanied by Judas and Silas. 
Chap, xv, 1-32. (4) Second Missionary Journey. Preparing for a second 

missionary journey, a dispute arose between Paul and Barnabas on account 
of John Mark. “ Barnabas determined to take Mark with them ; Paul 
thought it not good to take him.” The contention became so sharp that 
they separated, Barnabas with Mark going to Cyprus, while Paul and Silas 
went through Syria and Cilicia. Chap, xv, 36-41. At this point Barnabas 
disappears from the record of the Acts. Several times he is mentioned in 
the writings of St. Paul, but nothing special is noted save that Barnabas 
was at one time led away by Judaizing zealots. All else is matter of 
inference. 

BAR'SABAS, (Gr. Bapoa/3uc,) a surname. 

1. Of Joseph, a disciple who was nominated along with Matthias to suc- 
ceed Judas Iscariot in the apostlesliip. Acts i, 23. 

2. Of Judas, who, with Silas, was sent to Antioch in company of Paul 
and Barnabas. Acts xv, 22. 

BARTHOL'OMEW, (Gr. B ap8o2.ofj.aloc, son of Tolmai ,) one of the 
twelve apostles of Jesus, and generally supposed to have been the same per- 
son who, in John’s gospel, is called Nathanael. 

1. Name and Family. In the first three gospels (Matt, x, 3; Mark 
iii, 18 ; Luke vi, 14) Philip and Bartholomew are constantly named together, 


BARTIMEUS — BARUCH. 


81 


while Nathanael is nowhere mentioned. In the fourth gospel Philip and 
Nathanael are similarly combined, but nothing is said of Bartholomew. 
Nathanael must therefore be considered as his real name, while Bartholo- 
mew merely expresses his filial relation. (Kitto.) 

2. Personal History. If this may be taken as true, he was born in 
Cana of Galilee. John xxi, 2. Philip having accepted Jesus, told Bartholomew 
that he had “ found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did 
write, Jesus of Nazareth.” To his question, “ Can there any good thing come 
out of Nazareth ? ” Philip replied, “ Come and see.” His fastidious reluc- 
tance was soon dispelled. Jesus, as he saw him coming to him, uttered the 
eulogy, “ Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile ! ” John i, 45, sq. 
He was anointed with the other apostles, (Matt, x, 3 ; Mark iii, 1 8 ; Luke 
vi, 14,) was one of the disciples to whom the Lord appeared after the res- 
urrection, (John xxi, 2,) a witness of the ascension, and returned with the 
other apostles to Jerusalem. Acts i, 4, 12, 13. Tradition only speaks of 
his subsequent history. He is said to have preached the Gospel in India, 
(probably Arabia Felix ;) others say in Armenia, and report him to have 
been there flayed alive and then crucified with his head downward. 

3. Character. Nathanael “seems to have been one of those calm, retir- 
ing souls, whose whole sphere of existence lies not here, but 

Where, beyond these voices, there is peace. 

It was a life of which the world sees nothing, because it was ‘hid with 
Christ in God.’ ” — Farrar, 

BARTIME'US, (Gr. B apri/taio?, son of Timmai ,) a blind beggar of Jeri- 
cho, who sat by the way-side begging as our Lord went out of the city on 
his last journey to Jerusalem. Mark x, 46. Hearing that Jesus was pass- 
ing, he cried for mercy, and in answer to his faith he was miraculously 
cured, and “followed Jesus in the way.” 

BA'RUCH, (Heb. Baruk', Tpna, Messed.) 

1. The son of Zabbai. He repaired (B. C. 445) that part of the walls of 
Jerusalem between the north-east angle of Zion and the house of Eliashib, 
the high-priest, (Nell, iii, 20,) and joined in NehemialTs covenant. Neh. x, 6. 

2. The son of Col-hozeh, a descendant of Perez, son of Judah. His son, 
Maaseiah dwelt in Jerusalem after the captivity. Neh. xi, 5. 

3. The son of Neriah and brother of Seraiah, who held an honorable of- 
fice in the court of Zedekiah. Jer. xxxii, 12 ; xxxvi, 4; li, 59. Baruch was 
the faithful friend and amanuensis of Jeremiah. In the fourth year of the 
reign of Jehoiachim, king of Judah, (B. C. about 607,) Baruch was directed 
to write all the prophecies delivered by Jeremiah 
up to that period, and to read them to the people, 
which he did in the temple, both this and the suc- 
ceeding year. He afterward read them privately 
to the king’s counselors, and, in answer to inquiry, 
told how lie had written them from the dictation 
of the prophet. They ordered him to leave the 
roll, and advised him and Jeremiah to conceal them- 
selves. They then informed the king, who ordered 
the roll to be brought and read to him ; upon which he cut it with his pen- 
knife and threw it into the fire. He ordered the arrest of Jeremiah and 



82 


BA RZILLAI— BATHSHEBA. 


Baruch, but they could not be found. Baruch wrote another roll, including 
all that was in the former and an additional prediction of the ruin of Jehoi- 
akim and his house. Jer. xxxvi. Terrified by the threats in the prophetic 
roll, he received the assurance that he should be spared from the calamities 
which would befall Judah. Jer. xlv. During the siege of Jerusalem Jere- 
miah purchased the territory of Hanameel, and deposited the deed with 
Baruch. Jer. xxxii, 12. B. C. 590. Baruch was accused of influencing 
Jeremiah in favor of the Chaldeans, (Jer. xliii, 3 ; compare xxxvii, 13,) and he 
was thrown into prison with that prophet, where he remained until the capt- 
ure of Jerusalem. (Josephus, Ant. , x, 9, 1.) By the permission of Nebu- 
chadnezzar he abode with Jeremiah at Mizpeli, but was afterward forced to 
goto Egypt. Chap, xliii, 6. Nothing certain is known of the close of his 
life. According to one tradition, he went to Babylon upon the death of Jere- 
miah, where he died the twelfth year after the destruction of Jerusalem. There 
are two apocryphal books which purport to be the productions of Baruch. 

BARZIL'LAI, (Heb. Barzillay'. ^p3, of iron.) 

1. A wealthy and aged Gileadite of Rogelim, who showed great hospital- 
ity to David when he fied beyond Jordan from his son Absalom. B. C. 
1023. He sent in a liberal supply of provisions, beds, and other conven- 
iences for the use of the king’s followers. 2 Sam. xvii, 27. On the king’s 
triumphant return Barzillai accompanied him over Jordan, but declined, on 
the score of age, (being eighty years old.) and perhaps from a feeling of in- 
dependence, to proceed to Jerusalem and end his days at court. He, how- 
ever, recommended his son Chimham to the royal favor. 2 Sam. xix, 31-39. 
On his death-bed David recalled to mind this kindness, and commended 
Barzillai’s children to the care of Solomon. 1 Kings ii, 7. 

2. A Meholathite, father of Adriel, which latter was the husband of Michal, 
Saul’s daughter. 2 Sam. xxi, 8. B. C. before 1021. 

3. A priest who married a descendant of Barzillai, (1,) and assumed the 
same name. His genealogy became so confused that his descendants, on 
the return from captivity, were set aside as unfit for the priesthood. Ezra 
ii, 61; Neh. vii, 63. B. C. before 536. 

BASH'EMATH, (Heb. Basmath', fifths, elsewhere, more correctly, 

“ Basmath,’’ /ragrantf,) a daughter of Ishmael, the last married of the three 
wives of Esau (Gen. xxxvi, 3, 4, 13,) from whose son, Reuel, four tribes of 
the Edomites were descended. When first mentioned she is called Maha- 
lath, (Gen. xxviii, 9,) while, on the other hand, the name Basliemath is in 
the narrative (Gen. xxvi, 34) given to another of Esau’s wives, the daughter 
of Elon the Hittite. It may be that the name (Bashemath) has been as- 
signed to the wrong person in one or other of the passages. Or it may 
have been the original name of one, and the name given to the other upon 
her marriage, for “ as a rule, the women received new names when they 
were married.” 

BAS'MATH, (Heb. Basmath ', fragrant ,) a daughter of Solomon, 

who became the wife of Ahimaas, one of the king’s purveyors. 1 Kings 
iv, 15. B. C. 1014. 

BATH'SHEBA, (Heb. Bath- She'ba, daughter of the oath,) 

daughter of Eliam, (2 Sam. xi, 3,) or Ammiel, (1 Chron. iii, 5,) the grand- 


BATHSHUA — BECHER. 


83 


daughter of Ahithophel, (2 Sam. xxiii, 34,) and wife of Uriah. She had il- 
licit intercourse with David while her husband was absent at the siege of 
Rabbah. B. C. about 1036. Uriah being slain by a contrivance of David, 
after a period of mourning for her husband Bathsheba was legally married 
to the king. 2 Sam. xi, 3-27. The child which was the fruit ofher adulter- 
ous intercourse with David died, but she became the mother of four sous — 
Solomon, Shimea, (Shamtnuah,) Shobab, and Nathan. 2 Sam. v, 14 : 1 Cliron. 
iii, 5. When Adonijah attempted to set aside in his own favor the succes- 
sion promised to Solomon, Bathsheba was employed by Nathan to inform 
the king of the conspiracy, and received from him an answer favorable to 
Solomon. 1 Kings i, 11-31. After the accession of Solomon she, as queen- 
mother, requested permission of her son for Adonijah to take in marriage 
Abishag the Shunamite. 1 Kings ii, 21. B. 0. 1014. The request was 
refused, and became the occasion of the execution of Adonijati. Chap, 
ii, 24, 25. 

BATH'SHUA, a variation of the name Bath-sheba, (q. v.,) the mother 
of Solomon. 1 Chron. iii, 15. 

BAV'AI, (Heb. Bavvay ', 33,) a son of Henadad, and ruler of the half 

part of Keilah. He repaired a portion of the wall of Jerusalem on the re- 
turn from Babylon. Neh. iii, 18. B. C. 445. 

BAZ'UTH, (Heb. Batslith ', J"p^*3, nakedness ,) the head of one of the 

families of Nethinim that returned to Jerusalem from the exile. Neh. 
vii, 54. He is called Bazluth in Ezra ii, 52. 

BAZ'LUTH, (Heb. Batsluth ', ]"l^*3, another form of Bazlith, (q. v.) 

BEALFAH, (Heb. Bedlyah ', iT^3, whose Lord is Jehovah,) one of the 

Benjamite heroes who went over to David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 5. B. C. 
about 1058. « 

BEB'AI, (Heb. Behay ', ’>33., father.) 

1. The head of one of the families that returned with Zerubbabel ffom 
Babylon (B. C. about 536) to the number of 623 (Ezra ii, 11) or 628. Neh. 
vii, 16. At a later period 28 more, under Zechariah, returned with Ezra. 
Ezra viii, 11. B. C. about 457. Several of his sons were among those who 
had taken foreign wives. Ezra x, 28. 

2. The name of one who sealed the covenant with Nehemiah. Neh. x, 15. 
B. C. 445. Probably the same as No. 1. 

BE'CHER, (Heb. Be'ker, 333, first-horn , or a young camel) 

1. The second son of Benjamin, according to the list both in Gen. xlvi, 21, 
and 1 Chron. vii, 6, but omitted in 1 Cliron. viii, 1. Some suppose that the 
word “tirst-born” in the latter passage is a corruption of Becher; others, 
that Becher in the two passages above is a corruption of the word signify- 
ing “tirst-born.” Yet 1 Chron. vii, 8, gives Becher as a person, and names 
his sons. He was one of the sons of Benjamin that came down to Egypt 
with Jacob, being one of the fourteen descendants of Rachel who settled 
there. At the numbering of the Israelites in the plain of Moab (Num. xxvi) 
there is no family named after him. But there is a Becher and a family of 
Bachrites among the sons of Ephraim. This has given rise to the suppo- 
6 


84 


BECHORATH — BELA. 


sition that the slaughter of the sons of Ephraim by tlie mcu of Gath bad 
sadly thinned the house of Ephraim of its males, and that Becher, or his 
heir, married an Ephraimitish heiress, a daughter of ShutheJah, (1 Chron. 
vii, 20, 21,) and so his house was reckoned in the house of Ephraim. B. 0. 
about 1706. 

2. Son of Ephraim; his posterity were called Bacbrites, (Num. xxvi, 35,) 
called Bered. 1 Chron. vii, 20. He is probably the same as the preceding. 

BECHO'RATH, (Heb. Bekorath', nil'll, first-born,) the son of Aphiuh, 

of the tribe of Benjamin, one of the ancestors of King Saul. 1 Sam. ix, 1 . 
B. C. long before 1095. 

BE'DAD, (Heb. Bedad', separation , or Tftt”j3, son of Adad ,) the 

father of Hadad, a king in Edom. Gen. xxxvi, 35 ; 1 Chron. i, 46. 
BE'DAN, (Heb. Mm' p 3 .) 

1 . The name of a judge of Israel, not found in Judges, but only in 1 Sam. 
xii, 11. It is difficult to identify him with any of the judges mentioned else- 
where, but it is probable that Bedan is a contracted lorm for the name of 
the judge Abdon, (q. v.) 

2 . The son of Ulam, the great-grandson of Manasseh. 1 Chron. yii, 17. 
B. C. probably after 1600. 

BEDE'IAH, (Heb. Bedeyah ' HH3, servant of Jehovah ,) one of the family 

of Bani, who divorced his Gentile wife on the return from Babylou. Ezra 
x, 35. B. C. 456. 

BEELI'ADA, (Heb. Beelyada JfpSy 3 , whom Baal knotcs,) one of Da- 
vid’s sons, born in Jerusalem, 1 Chron. xiv, 7. B. C. after 1043. He is 
called Eliada, 2 Sam. v, 16; 1 Chron. iii, 8 . 

BEE'RA, (Heb. Be’era', j<“)X3, well,) the last given of the sous of Zophah, 
a descendant of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 37. B. C. after 1600. 

BEE'RAH, (Heb. Beerah ' mS3, the well,) the son of Baal, a prince of 

the tribe of Reuben, and carried into captivity by the Assyrian Tiglath-Pile- 
ser. 1 Chron. v, 6 . B. C. about 740. 

BEE'RI, (Heb. Beeri ' *1^3, of a fountain, illustrious.) 

1. A Hittite, and father of Judith, a wife of Esau. Gen. xxvi, 34. B. C. 
about 1796. 

2 . The father of the prophet Hosea. Hosea i, 1 . B. C. before 785. 

BE 'LA, (Heb. Be'la, 5 ^ 3 , swallowed.) 

1. A king of Edom, the son ofBeor, and a native of the city of Dinhabah. 
Gen. xxxvi, 32, 33; 1 Chron. i, 43. B. C. about 1676. From the name of 
his father, Beor, we may infer that he was a Chaldean by birth, and reigned 
in Edom by conquest. He may have been contemporary with Moses and 
Balaam. 

2. The eldest son of Benjamin. Gen. xlvi, 21 ; 1 Chron. vii, 6 , 7 ; viii, 3. 
B. C. about 1700. From him came the family of the Belaites. Num. xxvi, 38. 

3. A son of Azaz, a Reubenite, (1 Chron. v, 8 ,) “ who dwelt in Aroer 
even unto Nebo and Baal-meon.” B. C. before 1300. 


BELAH— BEN. 


85 


BE'LAH, a less correct mode of Anglicising (Gen. xlvi, 21) the name 
Bela, (q. v.,) the son of Benjamin. 

BELSHAZZAR. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. and Chald. Belsliat- 
star\ Bel's prince, that is, whom Bel favors,) probably the son of 

Nabonnedus, (or Labynetus,) and the last king of the Chaldees, under whom 
Babylon was taken by the Medes and Persians. 

2. Personal History. Mention is made in Daniel (chaps, vii. 1 ; viii, 1) 
of Belshazzar, as having visions which were interpreted by Daniel. The 
only other mention in Scripture is the account of his impious feast and vio- 
lent death. Chap. v. B. C. 538. While Babylon was besieged by Cyrus, 
Belshazzar made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and, in the excess 
of his revelry and impiety, commanded the vessels of gold and silver, which 
his grandfather had taken out of the temple at Jerusalem, to be brought into 
the hall of festivity. This was, doubtless, intended as a proud defiance of 
God, and to throw contempt upon the religious service of the Jews. While 
the king, his lords, wives, and concubines were drinking and praising their 
gods, the fingers of a man’s hand appeared writing upon the wall. The king, 
smitten with terror, called for the astrologers and soothsayers, who endeav- 
ored in vain to decipher the inscription. The queen-mother recommended 
that Daniel be brought, who, rejecting all offers of reward, proceeded to ex- 
plain the mysterious writing, which contained a severe denunciation against 
the king. The last act of Belshazzar was his rewarding Daniel with gifts 
and office ; for that night he was slain. Chap, v, 1-30. 

Difficulties.— Dan. v, 2. In this verse Nebuchadnezzar is called the father 
of Belshazzar. This, of course, need only mean grandfather, or ancestor. Capture 
of Babylon. “Profane historians of unimpeachable character * relate that the 
capture of Babylon by the Medo-Persians took place in the reign of a Babylonian 
king called Nabonnedus, (or Labynetus,) not of one called Belshazzar ; they say 
that this Nabonnedus was not of the royal stock of Nebuchadnezzar, to which, ac- 
cording to Daniel, (chap, v, 11,) Belshazzar belonged ; they state, moreover, that he 
was absent from Babylon at the time of its capture ; and that, instead of being 
slain in the sack of the town, as Belshazzar was, (Dan. v, 30,) he was made pris- 
oner and kindly treated by the conqueror. Thus the profane and the sacred narra- 
tives seem to be contradictory at all points. A very simple discovery, made a few 
years ago in Lower Babylon, has explained in the most satisfactory way all these 
apparent contradictions. Nabonnedus, the last native king of Babylon, according 
to Berosus, Herodotus, and Ptolemy, states that his eldest son bore the name of 
Bel-shar-ezer, and speaks of him in a way which shows that he had associated him 
in the government. Hence we learn that there were two kings of Babylon at the 
time of the last siege — Nabonnedus, (or Labynetus,) the father, and Belsharezer, 
(or Belshazzar,) the son. The latter was intrusted with the command within the 
city, while the former occupied a stronghold in the neighborhood ; the latter alone 
perished, the former escaped. It is the former only of whom trustworthy histo- 
rians relate that he was not of the royal stock ; the latter may have been, if his 
father took the ordinary precaution of marrying into the deposed house.” — Raw- 
linson, Historical Illustrations of the Old Testament, p. 180. 

BELTESHAZ'ZAR, (Heb. Belteshatstsar Bel's prince ,) the 

name given to Daniel at the court of Nebuchadnezzar, in Babylon. Dan. i, 
1, etc. See Daniel. 

BEN, (Heb. same, |3, son,) a Levite “ of the second degree,” one of the 

porters appointed by David to the service of the ark. 1 Chron. xv, 18. 
B. C. 1042. 

* Berosus, Abydenus, and Herodotus. 


86 


BEXAIAH— BENHADAD. 


BENAFAH, (Heb. Benayah ', iT33, built by Jehovah.) 

tt : 

1. The son of Jehoiada, the chief priest, (1 Chron. xxvii, 5,) and a native 
of Kabzeel. 2 Sam. xxiii, 20 ; 1 Chron. xi. 22. He was placed by David 
(1 Chron. xi, 25) over his body-guard of Cherethites and Pelethites, (2 Sain, 
viii, 18; 1 Kings i, 38; 1 Chron. xviii, 17; 2 Sam. xx, 23,) and given a 
position above “the thirty,” but not included among the “first three” of 
the mighty men. 2 Sam. xxiii, 22, 23; 1 Chron. xi, 24, 25; xxvii, 6. He 
was a very valiant man, and his exploits against man and beast which gave 
him rank are recorded in 2 Sam. xxiii, 21 ; 1 Chron. xi, 22. He was captain of 
the host for the third month. 1 Chron. xxvii, 5. Benaiah remained faithful 
to Solomon during Adonijah’s attempt on the crown. 1 Kings i, 8, sq. Act- 
ing under Solomon’s orders, he slew Joab, and was appointed to fill his posi- 
tion as commander of the army. 1 Kings ii, 35 ; iv, 4. B. C. 1014. Jehoi- 
ada, the son of Benaiah, succeeded Aliithophel about the person of the king, 
according to 1 Chron. xxvii, 34. This is possibly a copyist’s mistake for 
“ Benaiah the son of Jehoiada.” 

2. A man of Pirathon, of the tribe of Ephraim, one of David’s thirty 
mighty men, (2 Sam. xxiii, 30; 1 Chron. xi, 31,) and the captain of the 
host for the eleventh month. 1 Chron. xxvii, 14. B. C. 1046. 

3. One of the princes of the families of Simeon, who dispossessed the 
Amalekites from the pasture-grounds of Gedor. 1 Chron. iv, 36. B. C. 
about 715. 

4. A Levite in the time of David, who “ played with the psaltery on 
Alamoth,” at the removal of the ark. 1 Chron. xv, 18, 20 ; xvi, 5. B. C. 
about 1042. 

5. A priest appointed to blow the trumpet before the ark when David 
caused it to be removed to Jerusalem. 1 Chron. xv, 24; xvi, 6. B. C. about 
1042. 

6. A Levite of the sons of Asaph, the son of Jeiel, and grandfather of 
Jahaziel, which latter was sent by God to encourage the army of Jehosha- 
phat against the Moabites. 2 Chron. xx, 14. B. C. before 896. 

7. A Levite in the time of Hezekiah, who was one of the overseers of 
the offerings to the temple. 2 Chron. xxxi, 13. B. C. 726. 

8-11. Pour Jews who had taken Gentile wives after the return from 
Babylon. B. C. 456. They were respectively of the “ sons ” of Parosh, 
(Ezra x, 25,) Pahaih-moab, (verse 30.) Bani, (verse 35,) and Nebo. Yerse 43. 

12. The father of Pelatiah, which latter was a “ prince of the people ” in 
the time of Ezekiel. Ezek. xi, 1. B. C. before 594. 

BEN'-AMMI, (Heb. Ben-ammi ', "EilTpl, son of my kindred ,) son of 

Lot by his youngest daughter. He was the progenitor of the Ammonites. 
Gen. xix, 38. B. C. 1897. 

BEN'-HADAD, (Heb. Ben-Hadad', Yirrj3, son of Hadad,) the name of 
three kings of Damascus. “ ! v 

1. Probably the son (or grandson) of Rezon. In his time Damascus was 
supreme in Syria, and as an energetic and powerful sovereign he was 
courted by Baasha, kins: of Israel, and Asa, king of Judah. He finally closed 
with the latter on receiving a large amount of treasure, and conquered a 
great part of the north of Israel, thereby enabling Asa to pursue his vic- 
tories in the south. 1 Kings xv, 18-20 ; 2 Chron. xvi, 2-4. B. C. 940. He 


/ 


BENHADAD. 87 

probably continued to wage war successfully against Israel in Omri’s time 
1 Kings xx, 34. 

. 2 * Sou of tIie preceding, and a king of great power and extended domin- 
ion. Tins is proven by the fact that thirty-two vassal kings accompanied 
him to his first siege of Samaria. 1 Kings xx, 1. Ahab submitted as a vas- 
sal until he was required to give up his wives and children to Ben-hadad, 
when he rebelled. Vers. 2-9. Ben-hadad ordered his forces to be set in 
array against the city. Ahab’s army, preceded by 232 princes, went out 
against the Syrians while at their cups, and defeated them with great 
slaughter. Upon the supposition that Jehovah was a god of the hills, he 



DAMASCUS. 


resolved to fight the Israelites in the low country, and offered battle at 
Aphek. The Syrians were defeated with a loss of 100,000 men, while 
27,000 were crushed by the fall (perhaps in an earthquake) of the wall of 
Aphek, in which they had taken refuge. Ben-hadad threw himself upon the 
mercy of Ahab, who spared his life on condition that he would restore the 
towns taken from Omri by Ben-hadad I. Vers. 10-34. B. C. 901-900. 
Some time after the death of Ahab, Ben-hadad renewed the war, but his 
plans and operations were defeated, being made known to Jehoram by 
Elisha. 2 Kings vi, 8, sq. B. C. 893. Once more he attacked Samaria, and 
pressed the siege so closely that a terrible famine ensued, but the Syrians 


88 


BENHAIL — BENJAMIN. 


withdrew because of a panic infused among them by the Almighty. 2 Kings 
vi, 24-vii, 1-16. B. C. 892. Seven years later Ben-hadad, being sick, sent 
for Elisha, who was in Damascus, to inquire of him as to the result of his 
siekuess. The prophet announced that his sickness was not mortal, but 
that lie should die, which prophecy was fulfilled by the king being smothered 
by Hazael, who succeeded him. 2 Kings viii, 7-15. B. C. 885. 

3. A third king of Damascus, sou of Hazael, and his successor on the 
throne of Syria. His reign was disastrous lor Damascus, and the vast 
power wielded by his father sank into insignificance. The dying Elisha 
prophesied that the Syrians should be smitten at Aphek, (2 Kings iii, 17,) and 
his prophecy was fulfilled by Jehoash beating Ben-hadad three times, and 
recovering the cities taken from Israel. Ver. 25. B. 0. about 836. The 
misfortunes of Ben-hadad III. are noticed by Amos. Amos i, 4. 

BEN HA'lL, (Heb. Ben-Cha'yil, ^nf3, son of strength, that is, warrior ,) 

one of the “princes ” of the people sent by Jehoshaphat to teach the inhab- 
itants of Judah. 2 Chron. xvii, 7. B. C. 912. 

BEN-HA'NAN, (Heb. Ben- Chanan', |^ri"| 3 , son of one gracious ,) the 

third-named of the four “sons” of Shimon, of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. 
iv, 20. B. C. probably before 1300. 

BENTNU, (Heb. Beninu ', ^ 33 , our son,) a Levite who sealed the cove- 
nant with Nehemiah. Neh. x, 13. B. C. 445. 

BEN / JAMIN, (Heb. Binyamin', pp'33- son of my right hand.) 

1. The youngest of the sons of Jacob, and the second by Rachel. Gen. 
xxxv, 18. Born B. C. about 1729. 

1. Personal History. Benjamin was probably the only son of Jacob 
born in Palestine. His birth took place on the road between Bethel and 
Ephrath, (Bethlehem,) a short distance from the latter. His mother died 
immediately, and with her last breath named him Ben-oxi, ( son of my pain,) 
which name the father changed. We hear nothing more of Benjamin until 
the time when his brethren went into Egypt to buy food. Jacob kept him 
at home, for he said, “Lest peradventure mischief befall him.” Gen. xlii, 4. 
The story of his going to Joseph, the silver cup, his apprehension, etc., is 
familiar, and discloses nothing beyond a very strong affection manifested 
for him by his father and brethren. 

2. The tribe of Benjamin. In Gen. xlvi, 21. the immediate descendants 
of Benjamin are given to the number of ten , whereas in Num, xxvi, 38-40, 
only seven are enumerated, and some even under different names. This 
difference may probably be owing to the circumstance that some of the 
direct descendants of Benjamin died at an early period, or, at least, child- 
less. (1) Numbers. At the first census the tribe numbered 35,400, rank- 
ing eleventh, but increased to 45,600 at the second census, ranking seventh. 
(2) Position. During the wilderness journey Benjamin’s position was on 
the west side of the tabernacle with his brother tribes of Ephraim and 
Manasseh. Num. ii, 18-24. We have the names of the “captain” of the 
tribe when it set out on its long road, (Num. ii, 22;) of the spy, (xiii 9;) 
of the families of which the tribe consisted when it was marshaled at the 
great halt in the plains of Moab, near Jericho, (Num. xxvi, 38-41. 63;) and 
of the “ prince ” who was chosen to assist at the dividing of the land. 


BENO— BEOR. 


89 


Num. xxxiv, 21. (3) Territory. The proximity of Benjamin to Ephraim 
during the march to the Promised Land was maintained in the territo- 
ries allotted to each. Benjamin lay immediately to the south of Ephraim, 
and between him and Judah. (4) Subsequent History. We may men- 
tion, among the events of note, that they assisted Deborah, (Judges v, 14;) 
they were invaded by the Ammonites, (x, 9;) that they were almost ex- 
terminated by the other tribes because they refused to give up the miscre- 
ants of Gribeah, (xix, xx;) that the remaining 600 were furnished with 
wives at Jabesh-gilead and Shiloh. Chap. xxL To Benjamin belongs the 
distinction of giving the first king to the Jews, Saul being a Benjamite. 
1 Sam. ix, 1 ; x, 20, 21. After the death of Saul they declared themselves 
for Ish-bosheth. 2 Sam. ii, 15, sq.; 1 Chron. xii, 29. They returned to 
David. 2 Sam. iii, 19; xix, 16, 17. David having at last expelled the Jeb- 
usites from Zion, and made it his own residence, the close alliance between 
Benjamin and Judah (Judges i, 8) was cemented by the circumstance that 
while Jerusalem actually belonged to the district of Benjamin, that of 
Judah was immediately contiguous to it. After the death of Solomon Ben- 
jamin espoused the cause of Judah, and the two formed a kingdom by them- 
selves. After the exile also, these two tribes constituted the flower of the 
new Jewish colony. Comp. Ezra iv, 1; x, 9. The prediction of Jacob re- 
garding Benjamin’s future lot, or the development of his personal character 
in his tribe, is brief: “ Benjamin shall raven as a wolf; in the morning he 
shall devour the prey, and at night he shall divide the spoil.” Gen. xlix, 27. 
The events of history cast light on that prediction, for the ravening of the 
wolf is seen in the exploits of Ehud the Benjamite. (Judges iii,) and in 
Saul’s career, and especially in the whole matter of Gibeah, so carefully 
recorded in Judges xx. So, again, the fierce wolf is seen in fight in 2 Sam. 
ii, 15, 16. at Gibeon, and again in the character of Shimei. Some find much 
of the wolf of Benjamin in Saul of Tarsus, u making havoc of the Church.” 

2. A man of the tribe of Benjamin, second-named of the seven sons of 
Bilhan, and the head of a family of warriors. 1 Chron. vii, 10. 

3. An Israelite, one of the “ sons of Harim,” who divorced his foreign 
wife after the exile. Ezra, x, 32. B. C. 456. He seems to be the same 
person who had previously assisted in rebuilding (Nell, iii, 23) and purifying 
(Nell, xii, 34) the walls of Jerusalem. 

BE'NO, (Heb. Beno\ his son,) is given as the only son, or the first 

of the four sons, of Jaaziah the Levite, of the family of Merari, in 1 Chron. 
xxiv, 26, 27, B. C. 1015. 

BEN-O'NI, (Heb. Btn-Oni, son of my pain,) the name given 

by the dying Rachel to her youngest son, but afterward changed by his 
father to Benjamin, (q. v.) Gen. xxxv, 18. 

BEN-ZO'HETH, (Heb. Ben-Zocheth', nmrfc son of Zoheth ,) a person 

named (1 Chron. iv, 20) as the second son of Islii, a descendant of Judah, 
Or it may be that he was grandson of Islii, being the son of Zoheth himself. 

BE'OR, (Heb. Bear a torch.) 

1. The father of Bela, one of the kings of Edom. Gen. xxxvi, 32 ; 1 Chron. 
i, 43. B. C. about 1676. 


90 


BERA — BERIAH. 


2. The father of Balaam, the prophet hired by Balak to curse the children 
of Israel. Num. xxii, 5. B. C. before 1452. In 2 Peter ii, 15, he is called 
Bosor. 

BE'RA, (Heb. same, jna, gift, evil,) king of Sodom at the time of the 

invasion of the five kings under Chedorlaomer, which was repelled by 
Abraham. Gen. xiv, 2, 17, 21. B. C. about 1913. 

BER'ACHAH, (Heb. Berakah rD"Q, a blessing ,) one of the thirty 

Benjamite warriors who joined David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 3. B. C. 
about 1058. 

BERACHFAH, 1 Chron. vi, 39. See Berechiah, (2.) 

BERAFAH, (Heb. Berayah ', created by Jehovah ,) next to the 

last-named of the sons of Shimhi, and a chief Benjamite of Jerusalem. 
1 Chron. viii, 21. 

BERECHFAH, (Heb. Berehyah', rP3"l3. blessed by Jehovah .) 

1. One of the sons, (according to most authorities,) but a brother, 
(M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopoedia , s. v.,) of Zerubbabel, of the royal line 
of Judah. 1 Chron. iii, 20. B. C. 536. 

2. The son of Shimea and father of Asaph, the celebrated singer. 1 Chron. 

vi, 39; xv, 17. B. C. 1042. He was one of the “ door-keepers for the ark ” 
when it was removed from the house of Obed-edom. 1 Chron. xv, 23. 

3. The son of Asa, and one of the Levites that dwelt in the villages of the 
Netophathites after the return from Babylon. 1 Chron. ix, 16. B. C. about 
536. 

4. The son of Meshillemoth, and one of the chiefs of Ephraim, who en- 
forced the prophet Obed’s prohibition of the enslavement of their Judaite 
captives by the warriors of the northern kingdom. 2 Chron. xxviii, 12. 
B. C.*741. 

5. The son of Meshezabeel and father of Meshullam, who repaired a part 
of the walls of Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 4, 30. His granddaughter was mar- 
ried to Johanan, the son of Tobiah. Neh. vi, 18. 

6. The son of Iddo and lather of Zechariali the prophet. Zech. i, 1, 7. 
B. C. before 520. 

BE'RED, (Heb. same, *ri3, hail,) a son of Shuthelah and grandson of 

Ephraim, (1 Chron. vii, 20,) supposed by some to be identical with Becher. 
Num. xxvi, 35. B. C. after 1690. 

BE'RI, (Heb. Beri', i“i 2 , well, fountain ,) a son of Zophah, aud a mighty 
warrior of the tribe of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 36. B. C. perhaps 1016. 
BERFAH, (Heb. Beriah ', in evil, or son of evil.) 

1. The last-named of the four sons of Asher, and father of Heber and 
Malchiel. Gen. xlvi, 17 ; 1 Chron. vii, 30. B. C. about 1700. His descend- 
ants were called Beriites. Num. xxvi, 44, 45. 

2. A son of Ephraim, so named on account of the state of his father’s 
house when he was born. Some of Ephraim’s sons had been slain by men 
of Gath “ because they came down to take away their cattle.” 1 Chron. 

vii, 20-23. B. C. about 1700. 


BERNICE — BEZAI. 


91 


3. A Benjamite, and apparently son of ElraaL He and his brother 
Shema were ancestors of the inhabitants of Aijalon, and expelled the people 
of Gath. 1 Chron. viii, 13. B. C. 1400. His nine sons are enumerated in 
vers. 14-16. 

4. The last-named of the four sons of Sliimei, a Levite of the family of 
Gershom. 1 Chron. xxiii, 10, 11. B. C. 1015. His posterity was not nu- 
merous, and was reckoned with that of his brother Jeush. 

BERNI'CE, (Gr. BepviKrj,) the eldest daughter of Agrippa I., by his wife 
Cvpros ; she was espoused to Marcus, the son of Alexander, and upon his 
death was married to her uncle Herod, king of Chalcis, by whom she had 
two sons. (Josephus, Ant, xviii, 5, 4; xix, 5, 1.) After the death of Herod 
she lived for some time with her own brother, Agrippa II., probably in in- 
cestuous intercourse. She was afterward married to Polemon, king of 
Cilicia ; but soon deserted him and returned to her brother. With him she 
visited Festus on his appointment as procurator of Judea, when Paul de- 
fended himself before them all. Acts xxv, 13, 23 ; xxvi, 30. She afterward 
became the mistress of Yespasian and his son Titus. 

BERO'DACH-BAL'ADAN, (Heb. BerodaU Baladan f, 

the king of Babylon who sent friendly letters and a gift to Hezekiah, upon 
hearing of his sickness, (2 Kings xx, 12 ;) called, in Isa. xxxix, 1, Merodach- 
Baladan, (q. v.) 

BE / SAI, (Heb. Besay', subjugator , victory ,) one of the heads of the 

Nethinim, whose descendants returned from Babylon. Ezra ii, 49 ; Neh. 
vii, 52. B. C. 536. 

BE SODEI'AH, (Heb. Besodyah', IT*liD3, in the council of Jehovah ,) the 

father of Meshullam, which latter repaired “ the old gate ” of Jerusalem. 
Neh. iii, 6. B. C. 445, 

BETH-GA'DER (Heb. Beyth-Gader ', nrn'3, house of the wait) appears 

in the genealogies of Judah as a person, (1 Chron. ii, 51,) but was doubtless 
a place, with Hareph as founder, (or “ father/’) 

BETH-RATHA, (Heb. Beytli Rapha f, 1Y3, house of Raplia, or giant.) 

a name occurring in the genealogy of Judas as a son of Eshton. 1 Chron. 
iv, 12. 

BETHU'EL, (Heb. Bethuel', ^na, man of God,) the son of Nahor by 

Milcah ; the nephew of Abraham, and father of Rebekah. Gen. xxii, 22, 23 ; 
xxiv, 15, 24, 47. In chap, xxv, 20, and xxviii, 5, he is called “ Bethuel the 
Syrian.” In the narrative of Rebekah’s marriage he is mentioned as saying, 
“ The thing proceedeth from the Lord,” (chap, xxiv, 50,) while her brother 
Laban takes the leading partin the transaction. B. C. 1857. 

BE'ZAI, (Heb. Betsay', 'V3, probably subjugator,) the head of one of the 

families who returned from Babylon to the number of 324. including him- 
self. Ezra ii, 17 ; Neh. vii, 23. B. C. 536. Either he or his family is prob- 
ablv referred to (Neh. x, 19) as sealing the covenant. B. C. 445. 


92 


BEZALEEL — BILDAD. 


BEZAL'EEL, (Heb. Betsalel ', in the shadow [protection] of God.) 

1. The artificer to whom was intrusted the design and construction of the 
tabernacle and its furniture in the wilderness. For this work he was spe- 
cially chosen and inspired by Jehovah. With him was associated Aholiab, 
though Bezaleel appears to have been chief. He was the son of Uri, the 
son of Hur. Exod. xxxi, 2-11; xxxv, 30; xxxviii, 22. B. C. 1491. 

2. One of the sons of Pahath-moab, who divorced his foreign wife after 
the captivity. Ezra x, 30. B. C. 456. 

BE'ZER, (Heb. Be'tser, “i¥3, ore,) the sixth-named of the eleven sons 
of Zophah, of the descendants of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 37. B. C. 1444. 

BICH'RI, (Heb. Bikri ', '"133, youthful ,) a Benjamite, whose son Sheba 

stirred up a rebellion against David after the death of Absalom. 2 Samuel 
xx, 1, sq. B. 0. about 1022. 

BID'KAR, (Heb. Bidkai J , njrr^, assassin , or, according to Fiirst, servant 

of the city,) Jehu’s captain and, originally, fellow-officer, who cast the body 
of Jehoram. the son of Ahab, into the field of Naboth after Jehu had slain 
him. 2 Kings ix, 25. B. C. 884. 

BXG'THA, (Heb. Bigtha xri53, perhaps garden ,) one of the seven cham- 
berlains who had charge of the harem of Xerxes, (Ahasuerus,) and were 
commanded by him to bring in Queen Yashti to the banquet. Esther i, 10. 
B. C. 519. 

BIG'THAN, or BIGTHA'NA, (Heb. jn33, perhaps fortune- given,) one 

of the chamberlains of Xerxes (Ahasuerus) who u kept the door.” He con- 
spired with Teresh against the life of the king, and, being exposed by Mor- 
decai, was hanged with his fellow-conspirator. Esther ii, 21; vi, 2. B. C. 
about 510. 

BIQ' VAX, (Heb. Bigvay ', *^3, husbandman .) 

1. The head of one of the families of Israelites who returned from Baby- 
lon with Zernbbabel (Ezra ii, 2; Neh. vii, 7) with a large number of retain- 
ers — 2.056, Ezra ii, 14 ; 2,067, Neh. vii, 19. B. 0. 536. At a later period 72 
males of his farmlv returned with Ezra. Chap, viii, 14. B. C. about 457. 

2. One of the chiefs of the people who subscribed to the covenant with 
Neliemiah. Neh. x, 16. B. C. 445. Perhaps the same with No. 1. 

BII/DAD, (Heb. Bildad ', son of contention ,) the Shuhite, and the 

second of the three friends of Job, who disputed with him as to his afflic- 
tion and character. Job ii, 11. In his first speech (chap, viii) he attributes 
the death of Job’s children to their own transgression. In his second speech 
(chap xviii) he recapitulates his former assertions of the temporal calami- 
ties of the wicked, insinuating Job’s wrong-doing. In his third speech, 
(chap, xxv,) unable to answer Job’s arguments, he takes refuge in a 
declaration of God's glory and man’s nothingness. Finally, with Eliphaz 
and Zophar, he availed himself of the intercession of Job, in obedience to the 
divine command. Chap, xlii, 9. 


BILGAH — BINNUT. 


93 


BII/GAH, (Heb. Bilgah', nab, cheerfulness.) 

1. Head of the fifteenth course for the temple service, as arranged by Da- 
vid. 1 Chron. xxiv, 14. B, C. 1015. 

2. A priest who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel and Jeshua. 
Nell, xii, 5, 18. B. C. 536. Perhaps the same as Bilgai, infra. Neh. 
x, 8. 

BII/GAI, (Heb. Bilgay ', ^ab, signification same as above,) one of the 

priests whose descendants were sealed with Nehemiah after the restoration. 
Neh. x, 8. B. C. 445. Probably the same as Bilgah, supra. 

BIL'HAH, (Heb. Bilhah f, nr6a faltering ,) the handmaid of Rachel, given 

to her by Laban, (Gen. xxix, 29,) and bestowed by her upon her husband, 
Jacob, that through her she might have children. B. C. about 1749. Bil- 
hah thus became the mother of Dan and Naphtali. Gen. xxx, 3-8 ; xxxv, 25 ; 
xlvi, 25. Her stepson Reuben afterward lay with her, (Gen. xxxv, 22,) 
and thus incurred his father’s dying reproof. Gen. xlix, 4. 

BII/HAN, (Heb. Bilhan ', tender.) 

1. AHorite chief, son of Ezer, son of Seir, dwelling in mount Seir, in thd 
land of Edom. Gen. xxxvi, 27 ; 1 Chron. i, 42. B. C. about 1840. 

2. A Beniamite, son of Jediael, (q. v.,) and father of seven sons. 1 Chron. 
vii, 10. B. C. before 1444, 

BII/SHAN, (Heb. Bilshan', je>b, son of the tongue , that is, eloquent ,) the 

name of one of the princes of the Jews who returned to Jerusalem with 
Zerubbabel after the captivity. Ezra ii, 2 ; Neh. vii, 7. B. C. 536. 

BIM'HAL, (Heb. BirnhaV , bp3* son of circumcision , that is, circumcised,) 

a son of Japhlet, and great-great-grandson of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 33. B. C. 
about 1444. 

BIN'EA, (Heb. Binaf, and Binali ', fljpa, a gushing forth, fountain,) 

a Benjamite, son of Moza and father of Rapha, of the descendants of King 
Saul. 1 Chron. viii, 37 ; ix, 43. B. C. about 850. 

BIN'NUi, (Heb. Binnu'y, rj32, a building.) 

1. A Levite whose son, Noadiah, was one of those that assisted in 
weighing the gold and silver designed for the divine service on the restora- 
tion from Babylon. Ezra viii, 33. B. C. about 457. 

2. One of the “ sons ” of Pahath-moab, who put away his strange wife on 
the return from Babylon. Ezra x, 30. B. C. 456. 

3. Another Israelite, of the “ sons ” ofBani, who did the same. Ezra x, 38. 
B. C. 456. 

4. A Levite, son of Henadad, who returned with Zerubbabel from Baby- 
lon. Neh. xii, 8. B. C. 536. He also (if the same) assisted in repairing the 
walls of Jerusalem, (Neh. ill, 24 ; B. C. 446,) and joined in the covenant. 
Nell, x, 9. B. C. 410. 

5. The head of one of the families of Israelites whose followers, to the 
number of 648, returned from Babylon. Neh. vii, 15. In Ezra ii, 10, he is 
called Bani, (q. v.,) and his retainers are numbered at 642. 


94 


BIRSHA — BOOZ. 


BIR'SHA, (Heb. Birsha', for y£h-j3, son of wickedness,) a king of 

Gomorrah, succored by Abraham in the invasion of Chedorlaomer. Gen. 
xiv, 2. B. C. about 1913. 

BXR'ZAVITH, (Heb. Birza'vith, njTl3» perhaps olive well,) a name given 

in the genealogies of Asher (1 Chron. vii, 31) as the son of Malchiel, and 
great-grandsou of Asher. 

BISH'LAM, (Heb. Bishlam ', son of peace,) apparently an officer of 

Artaxerxes in Palestine at the time of the return of Zerubbabel from captiv- 
ity. He wrote to the king against the Jews who were rebuilding the 
temple. Ezra iv, 7. B. C. 522. 

BITHFAH, (Heb. Bithyah ', n'D3, daughter of Jehovah ,) daughter of 

Pharaoh, and wife of Mered, a descendant of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 18. It is 
thought that her sons are mentioned (ver. 17) in the clause beginning u and 
she bare,” etc. As the Pharaohs contracted marriages with royal families 
alone, Mered was probabl 3 r a person of some distinction ; or Bithiah may 
have been an adopted daughter of Pharaoh. It may be supposed that she 
became the wife of Mered through captivity. 

BIZ'THA, (Heb. Biztha', NDT3,) one of the seven eunuchs of the harem 

of Xerxes (Ahasuerus) who were ordered to bring Yashti forth for exhibi- 
tion. Esther i, 10. B. C. about 521. 

BLAS'TUS, (Gr. B laaroc,,) the chamberlain of King Herod Agrippa who 
acted as mediator between the people of Tyre and Sidon and the kiug. Acts 
xii, 20. A. D. 44. 

BOANERGES, (Gr. B oavtpyec, sons of thunder,) a surname given by 
Christ to James and John, probably on account of “their ardent tempera- 
ment and bold eloquence as preachers.” 

BO'AZ, (Heb. same, Ty'zt, alacrity ,) a wealthy Bethlehemite, kinsman to 

Elimelech, the husband of Naomi. When Naomi and Ruth returned from 
the country of Moab, the latter received permission to glean in the fields of 
Boaz. He treated her generously, offering her much greater privileges than 
were usually accorded to gleaners. Finding that the kinsman of Ruth, 
who was more nearly related to her, would not marry her according to the 
“ levirate law,” Boaz voluntarily assumed its obligations. He married Ruth, 
and their union was blessed by the birth of Obed, the grandfather of David. 
Ruth i-iv. B. C. about 1312. 

BOCH'ERU, (Heb. Bolceru', the first-born is he,) one of the six 

sons of Azel, a descendant of King Saul. 1 Chron. viii, 38. B. C. much after 
1056. 

BO'HAN, (Heb. Bohan', jpQ, & thumb,) a Reubenite, in whose honor a 

stone was set up, (or named,) which afterward served as a boundary-mark 
on the frontier of Judah and Benjamin. Josh, xv, 6 ; xviii, 17. 

BO'OZ, the Grecized form (Matt, i, 5) of the Bethlehemite Boaz, (q. v.) 


BUKKI — CAIAPHAS. 


95 


EUK'KI, (Heb. BuJcki', waster.) 

1. The son of Jogli, and chief of the tribe of Dan, appointed by Moses as 
one of the commission to divide the inheritance among the tribes. Numbers 
xxxiv. 22. B. C. 1452. 

2. The son of Abishua and father of Uzzi, being great-great-grandson of 
Aaron. 1 Chron. vi, 5, 51. B. C. about 1444. 

BUKKI' AH, (Heb. Bukkiya'hu, ![!Ti92, wasted by Jehovah ,) a Kohathite 

Levite, of the sons of Heman, the leader of the sixth band, or course, in the 
temple music service. The band consisted of himself and eleven of his 
kindred. 1 Chron. xxv, 4, 13. B. C. about 1015. 

BU'NAH, (Heb. Bunah', n^3, discretion ,) the second of the sons of Je- 
fahmeel, the grandson of Pharez, the son of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 25. 

BUN'NI, (the Hebrew words are different, that of No. 1 being 133 , built; 
of No. 2, 'jfl3, considerate.) 

1. One of the Levites who made public prayer and confession, (Neh. 
ix, 4,) and joined Neliemiah in the solemn covenant after the return from 
Babylon. Chap, x, 15. B. C. 445. 

2. A Levite whose descendant, Shemaiah, was made an overseer of the 
temple after the captivity. Neh. xi, 15. B. C. before 445. 

BUZ, (Heb. same, D3, contempt.) 

1- The second son of Nahor and Milcah. G-en. xxii, 21. B. C. about 1812. 
Elihu, the Buzi.te, one of Job’s friends, was doubtless a descendant of this 
Buz. Job xxxii, 2. 

2. The father of Jahdo, of the tribe of Gad. 1 Chron. v, 14. 

BU'ZI, Heb. Buzi', 'ft3, a Buzite ,) a priest, father of Ezekiel the prophet. 

Ezek i, 3. B. C. before 595. 


CiE'SAR, a name taken by or given to all the Roman emperors after 
Julius Caesar. It was a sort of title, like Pharaoh, and as such is usually 
applied to the emperors in the New Testament, as the sovereigns of Judea. 
John xix, 15; Acts xvii, 7. It was to him that the Jews paid tribute, 
(Matt, xxii, 17 ; Luke xxiii, 2,) and to him that such Jews as were cives 
Romani had the right of appeal, (Acts xxv, 11;) in which case, if their 
cause was a criminal one, they were sent to Rome. Acts xxv, 12, 21. The 
Caesars mentioned in the New Testament are Augustus, (Luke ii, 1 ;) Tibe- 
rius, (Luke iii, 1; xx, 22;) Claudius, (Acts xi, 28;) Nero. Acts xxv, 8. See 
each name. 

CAI'APHAS, (Gr. Kaiu<j>ac, perhaps from Chald. depression,) the 

high-priest of the Jews in the reign of Tiberius Caesar, at the beginning of 
our Lord’s public ministry, (Luke iii, 2,) and also at the time of his con- 
demnation and crucifixion. Matt, xxvi, 3, 57, etc. He was appointed to this 
dignity by the procurator, Valerius Gratus, (A. D. 25, M’Clintock and Strong; 
A. D. 27 or 28, Kitto,) and held it during the whole procuratorship of Pon- 
tius Pilate, but was deposed by the proconsul Vitellus. A. D. 34 or 3d. 
He was the son-in-law of Annas, witli whom he is coupled by Luke. See Diffi- 


96 


CAIN. 


culties. His wife was the daughter of Annas, or Ananus, who had formerly 
been high-priest, and who still possessed great influence and control in 
sacerdotal matters. After the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead 
Caiaphas advocated putting Jesus to death. His language on this occasion 
was prophetic, though not so designed, “ Ye know nothing at all, nor con- 
sider that it is expedient for us that one man should die for the people, and 
that the whole nation perish not.” John xi, 49, 50. After Christ was ar- 
rested he was taken before Annas, who sent him to his son-in-law, Caiaphas, 
probably living in the same house. An effort was made to produce false 
testimony sufficient for his condemnation. This expedient failed ; for though 
two persons appeared to testify, they did not agree, and at last Caiaphas 
put our Saviour himself upon oath that he should say whether he was indeed 
the Christ, the Son of God, or not. The answer was, of course, in the af- 
firmative, and was accompanied with a declaration of his divine power and 
majesty. The high- priest pretended to be greatly grieved at what he con- 
sidered the blasphemy of our Saviour’s pretensions, and appealed to his en- 
raged enemies to say if this was not enough. They answered at once that 
he deserved to die, but, as Caiaphas had no power to inflict the punishment 
of death, Christ was taken to Pilate, the Roman governor, that his execution 
might be duly ordered. Matt, xxvi, 3, 57; John xviii, 13, 28. '1 he bigoted 

fury of Caiaphas exhibited itself also against the first efforts of the.apostles. 
What became of Caiaphas after his deposition is not known. 

Difficulties.— “ Annas and Caiaphas being the high-priests.” Luke iii, 2. 
Some maintain that Annas and Caiaphas then discharged the functions of the 
high-priesthood by turns ; but this is not reconcilable with the statement of Jose- 
phus. Others think that Caiaphas is called high-priest because he then actually 
exercised the functions of the office, and that Annas is so called because he for- 
merly tilled the situation. But it does not thus appear why, of those who held the 
priesthood before Caiaphas, Annas in particular should be named, and not others 
who had served the office more recently than Annas. Same consider it more 
probable that Caiaphas was high-priest, but that Annas was his deputy, called in 
the Hebrew 13 D, sagan. (M’Clintock and Strong ; Kitto.) 

TT 

CAIN, (Heb. Ka'yin ', a lance ,) the first-born of the human race, and 

likewise the first murderer and fratricide. B. C. 4003. His history is nar- 
rated in Gen. iv, and the facts are briefly these. (1) Sacrifice. Cain was 
the eldest son of Adam and Eve, and by occupation a tiller of the ground. 
Upon a time he and his brother offered a sacrifice to God, Cain of the fruit 
of the ground and Abel of the firstlings of his flock. Cain’s temper and of- 
fering (being bloodless! were not accep able, while Abel’s received the 
divine approval. (2) Murder. At this Cain was angered, and, though re- 
monstrated with by the Almighty, he fostered his revenge until it resulted 
in the murder of his brother. When God inquired of him as to the where- 
abouts of Abel he declared “I know not.,” and sullenly inquired, “Am I 
my brother’s keeper?” The Lord then told him that his crime was 
known, and pronounced a curse upon him and the ground which he should 
cultivate. Cain was to endure, also, the torments of conscience, in that the 
voice of his brother’s blood would cry unto God from the ground. Eearful 
lest others should slay him for his crime, he plead with God, who assured 
him that veugeance sevenfold would be taken on any one who should kill 
him. He also gave him “ a sign,” probably an assurance that his life 
would be spared. Cain became a fugitive, and journeyed into the land of 




CAINAN — CALEB. 


97 




Nod, where he built a city which he named after his son, Enoch. His de- 
scendants are named to the sixth generation, and appear to have reac ed 
an advanced stage of civilization, being noted for proficiency in music and 
the arts. 

CAI'NAN, (Heb. Keynan ', p'jp, possessor , or forgeman .) 

1. The son of Enos, and great-grandson of Adam. He was born when 
his father was 90 years old. B. C. 3679. He lived 70 years, and begat 
Mahalaleel, after which he lived 840 years. Gen. v, 9-14. His name° is 
Anglicised Kenan in 1 Chron. i. 2. 

2. The son of Arphaxad and father of Sala, according to Luke iii, 35, 36, 
and usually called the second Cainan. He is nowhere found named in the 
Hebrew text, nor in any of the versions made from it, as the Samaritan, 
Chaldee, Syriac, Vulgate, etc. It is believed by many that the name was 
not originally in the text, even of Luke, but is an addition of careless tran- 

I scribers from the Septuagint. 

CAI/COL, the fourth-named of the five sons (or descendants) of Zerah. 
1 Chron. ii, 6. Probably the same with Chalcol, (q. v.) 

CA'LEB, (Heb. KaleV , 3^3, a dog.) 

1. The son of Jephunneh, (q. v.,) the Kenezite, (that is, son of Kenaz, 
(Keil,) and chief of one of the families of Judah. 

1 Personal History. (1) A Spy. The first mention of Caleb was 
his appointment, at the age of 40 years, (Josh, xiv, 7,) as one of the 
twelve spies sent by Moses to explore Canaan. Num. xiii, 6, 17-25. 
B. C. 1490. (2) A Faithful Report, and Results. On their return all 
the spies agreed respecting the pre-eminent goodness of the land, but 
differed in their advice to the people. While the ten others announced 
the inability of Israel to overcome the Canaanites, Caleb and Joshua 
spoke encouragingly. They admitted the strength and stature of the 
people, and the greatness of the walled cities, but were far from de- 
spairing. Caleb, stilling the people before Moses, exhorted them earnest- 
ly and boldly, “ Let us go up at once and possess it ; for we are well 
able to overcome it.” Num. xiii, 30. For this act of faithfulness, repeated 
the following day, Caleb and Joshua barely escaped being stoned by the 
people. Num. xiv, 10. Moses announced to the congregation, however, 
that they alone, of all the people over twenty years of age, should enter 
into the promised land, and in a plague that shortly followed the other spies 
died. Num. xiv, 26-38. A special promise was given to Caleb that he 
should enter the land which he had trodden upon, and that his seed should 
possess it. Num. xiv, 24. (3) In Canaan. We find no further mention of 

Caleb until about forty-five years after. The land was being divided, and he 
claimed the special inheritance promised by Moses as a reward of his fidel- 
ity. His claim was admitted, and Joshua added his blessing. Caleb, who 
at the age of eighty-five years was still as strong for war as when he was 
forty, drove out the Anakim from Hebron. Josh, xiv, 6-15 ; xv, 14. He 
then attacked Debir, to the south of Hebron. This town must have been 
strong and very hard to conquer, for Caleb offered a prize to the conqueror, 
promising to give his daughter Achsah for a wife to any one who should 
take it. Othniel, his younger brother, (Keil,) took the cfty, and secured 
Achsah and a tract of land. Josh, xv, 13-19. We have no'further infor- 
mation respecting Caleb’s life or death. 



98 


CANAAN — CARPUS. 


2. Character. Caleb appears to have been a man of great courage and 
faith. He was God-fearing and conscientious in discharge of duty, trusting 
implicitly in the promises of Jehovah, and was able to say, “ I wholly fol- 
lowed the Lord my God.” 

Difficulty.— “ There is no discrepancy between the accounts of the taking of 
Debir, Josh, xi, 21, 22, and Josh, xv, 13-19. For the expulsion of its inhabitants 
by Joshua did not preclude the possibility of their returning when the Israelitish 
armies had withdrawn to the north.”— Keil, Commentary . 

2. The last-named of the three sons of Hezron, of the descendants of 
Judah, in 1 Chron. ii, 9, where he is called Chelubai. His sons by his first 
wife, Azubah, or Jerioth, (q. v.,) were Jesher, Sbobab, and Arden. Yer. 18. 
After her death he married Ephrath, by whom he had Hur, (ver. 19,) and 
perhaps others. Yer. 50. He had also several children by his concubines, 
Ephali and Maachah. Yers. 46, 48. B. C. about 1500. 

3. The son of Hur and grandson of the preceding. 1 Chron. ii, 50. No 
further information is given respecting him, save a mention of his numerous 
posterity. 

CA'NAAN, (Heb. Kena'an , perhaps low or submissive ,) the fourth 

son of Ham, and grandson of Noah. Gen. x. 6 ; 1 Chron. i, 8. The trans- 
gression of his father (Gen. ix, 22) gave occasion to Noah to pronounce a 
doom ou the descendants of Canaan. Noah may have pronounced this curse 
either through inspiration or because of Canaan’s following in his father’s 
impiety. We do not suppose that it was in consequence of the transgression 
of Ham. 

CAN'DACE, (Gr. K avduKy,) the name of that queen of the Ethiopians 
whose high treasurer was converted to Christianity under the preaching of 
Philip the evangelist. Acts viii, 27. A. D. 34. Candace was probably a 
distinctive title borne by successive queens, as Pharaoh, Ptolemy, etc. The 
country over which she* ruled is supposed to be that region in Upper Nubia 
which was called by the Greeks Meroe. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclo- 
paedia.) 

CAR'CAS, (Heb. Karlas ', D3“}3, severe ,) the last-named of the seven 

eunuchs who were commanded to bring Queen Yashti into the royal feast. 
Esther i, 10. B. C. about 519. 

CARE 'AH, the father of Johanan, (2 Kings xxv, 23 ;) elsewhere called 
Kareah, (q. v.) 

CAR'MI, (Heb. Karmi', TO vine-dresser.) 

1. The fourth son of Reuben. Gen. xlvi, 9; Exod. vi, 14. B. C. 1706. 

His descendants were called Carmites. Num. xxvi, 6. 

2 The son of Hezron, (Judah’s grand-on,) and father of Hur. 1 Chron. iv, 1. 
B. C. about 1471. He is elsewhere called Caleb , (chap, ii, 18,) or Chelubai. 

3^ The son of Zabdi, (of the tribe of Judah,) and father of Achan, the 
traitor. Josh, vii, 1 ; 1 Chron. ii, 7. B. C. before 1451. 

CAR'PUS, (Gr. KdpTrof, fruit,) a Christian of Troas, with whom the apos- 
tle Paul states that he left a cloak, (2 Tim. iv, 13,) probably when passing 
through Asia Minor for the last time before his martyrdom at Rome. 
A. D. 64. 


C ARSH EX A — CHEN A NT. 


99 


CARSHE'NA, (Heb. Karshena', &WEH3,) the first-named of the seven 

“ princes ” or chief emirs of the court of Xerxes, (Ahasuerus,) with whom 
he consulted as to what course he should pursue toward Vashti, who had 
refused to appear at the royal banquet. Esther i, 14. B. C. about 519. 

CETHAS, (Gr. Kr/^uf, a rock ,) a surname which Christ bestowed upon 
Simon, (q. v.) John i, 42. 

CHAL'COL, (Heb. Kalkol ', ^>3^3, perhaps sustenance ,) one of the four 

sons of Mahol, who were famous for their wisdom before the time of Sol- 
omon. 1 Kings iv, 31. B. C. before 1014. In 1 Chron. ii, 6, where the 
name is Anglicised Calcol, he and his brothers are given as the sons of 
Zerah, of the tribe of Judah. 

CHEDORLA'OMER, (Heb. Kedorla'dmer, meaning un- 

V T . T : 

known,) a king of Elam who, in the time of Abraham, with three other 
chiefs, reduced the kings of Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Zoar 
to servitude. For twelve years they served Chedorlaomer, but rebelled in 
the thirteenth. The next year, however, he, with his allies, invaded the 
territory of the five kings, and joined battle in the vale of Siddim. He 
completely routed them, slew the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah, and car- 
ried away much spoil, together with the family of Lot. Chedorlaomer was 
slain in the rescue of Lot which was effected by Abraham. Gen. xiv, 1-17. 
B. C. about 1913. 

CHE'IiAL, (Heb. Kelal ', ^3, completion ,) one of the “ sons” of Paliath- 

moab, who divorced his Gentile wife after the return from Babylon. Ezra 
x, 30. B. C. 456. 

CHEI/LUH, (Heb. Kelidtu ', ^“1^3, completed ,) one of the “ sons ” of 

Bani, who divorced his Gentile wife after the return from captivity. Ezra 
x, 35. B. C. 456. 

CHE'LUB, (Heb. Kdiib ', 3^3, a cage) 

1. The brother of Shuah and father of Mehir, of the tribe of Judah. 
1 Chron. iv, 11. 

2. The father of Ezri, who was David’s chief gardener. 1 Chron. xxvii, 26. 
B. C. about 1015. 

CHELU'BAI, (Heb. Kelubay ', "'3^3,) one of the sons of Hezron, (1 Chron. 
ii, 9 ;) elsewhere in the same chapter (vers. 18, 42) called Caleb, (q. v.) 
OHENAANAH, (Keh. KenaanaJi', flips, female ofCanaan, perhaps low.) 

1, The fourth-named of the seven “sons” of Bilhan, a Benjamite and 
mighty warrior, apparently, in the time of David. 1 Chron. vii, 10. B. C. 
about 1020. 

2. The father of the false prophet Zedekiah, which latter opposed Mica- 
iah and encouraged Ahab. 1 Kings xxii, 11, 24; 2 Chron. xviii, 10, 23. 
B. C. 897. 

CHENANI, (Heb. Kenani \3J3, probably abridged from Chenaniah ,) 

one of the Levites who conducted the devotions of the people after Ezra 
had read to them the book of the law. Nell, ix, 4. B. C. 445. 

7 


100 


CHEXAXIAH — CHRIST. 


CHENANI'AH, (Heb. Kenanyah', rP733, established ly Jt homh,) chief 

of the Levites who, as master of song, (1 Chron. xv, 22,) conducted tie 
grand musical services when the ark was removed from the house of Obod- 
edom to Jerusalem. Chap, xv, 27. 3- G. about 1042, Re was of the family 

of Izbarites, and was appointed over the inspectors of the building of the 
temple. 1 ChroD. xxvi, 29. B. C. about 1015. 

CHE'RAN, (Heb. Keraw', p3, a harp, or association,) the last-named of 

the four sons of Dishon, the Horite “ duke ” descended from Seir, Genesis 
xxxvi, 26 ; 1 Chrop. i, 41. B. C. about 1840. 

CHER'UB, (Heb. Kerub', 3VI3, meaning doubtful,) an Israelite of doubt- 
ful extraction, who accompanied Zerubbabel to Judea, or the place from 
which certain persons came. Ezra ii, 59; Nell. vii, 61. 

CHE'SED, (Heb. Kt'sed, *ifcy3, doubtful signification.) the fourth- 

named of the sons of Nahor (Abraham’s brother) by Milcah. Gen. xxii, 22. 
B. 0. about 1870. 

CHI'DON, (Heb. Kidon / , fP3, a spear,) thought by some to be an Is- 
raelite to whom belonged the threshing-floor where the accident to the ark, 
on its journey to Jerusalem, took place, as well as the death of Uzzah. 
1 Chron. xiii, 9. It is more probable that it was the name of the place. 

CHII/EAB, (Heb. KilaV, 3^3, like to, or protected by the father ,) tho 

second son of David, by Abigail, the widow of Nabal, the Carmelite. 2 Sam. 
iii, 3. He is called Daniel in the parallel passage. 1 Chron. iii, 1. B. C, 
about 1053. 

CHII/ION, (Heb. Kilyon', fv!>3 r pining .) the younger son of Elimelech 

and Naomi, and husband of Orpah, Ruth’s sister ; he died ehildless in the 
land of Moab. Ruth i, 2, 4 ; iv, 9. B. C. about 1322. 

CHUYTHAM, (Heb. Kirriham', DTO3, pining , longing ,) a follower, and, 

according to Josephus, {Ant, vii, 11, 4,) a son of Barzillai, the Gileadite. 
Upon David’s restoration after Absalom’s rebellion, Chimliam returned from 
beyond Jordan with him, and received marked favors at his hand, which 
were first offered to Barzillai, but declined on account of old age. 2 Sam. 
xix, 37-40. B. C. 1023. David probably bestowed upon lum a possession 
at or near Bethlehem, on which, in later times, was an inn called after him. 
Jer. xli, 17. 

CHIS'LON, (Heb. Kishn ', }i^D3> confidence , hope,) the father of Elidad, 

who, as one of the chiefs of Benjamin, was selected on the part of that 
tribe to divide Canaan. Num. xxxiv, 21. B. C. before 1452. 

CHLO'E, (Gr. XXotj, verdure ,) a female Christian mentioned in 1 Cor. i, ] 1 , 
some of whose household had informed the apostle Paul of divisions in the 
Corinthian Church. A. D. 59. Whether she was a resident of Corinth or 
not we have no means of knowing. 

CHRIST, (Gr. Xpcaroc, anointed, Greek translation of the Heb. 1TE7D, 
Messiah,) the official title of our Saviour, not as a proper name, but a desig- 


CHUSHAN-RISHATHAIM — CLAUDIUS. 


101 


nation of office. “Jesus the Christ” is a mode of expression of the same 
kind as “John the Baptist,” or baptizer. The terra is equivalent to conse- 
crated, sacred, set apart, and Jesus, by way of eminence, was called “ The 
Anointed One.” See Jesus. 

CHU'SHAN-RISHATHA'IM, (Heb. Kushan' Rishatha'yim , 
DTOfch,) a king of Mesopotamia who oppressed the Israelites for eight 
years, until he was defeated by Othniel. Judg. iii, 8-10. B. C. 1402-1394. 

CHU'ZA, (Gr. Chuzas', Xoa^df, possession,) the “ steward ” of Herod, 
(Antipas,) whose wife, Joanna, (q. v.,) having been cured by our Lord 
either of possession by an evil spirit or of a disease, became attached to that 
body of women who accompanied him on his journeyings. Luke viii, 3. 
A. D. 27. 

CIS, a Greeized form (Acts xiii, 21) of the name of Kish, (q. v.,) the 
father of King Saul, 

CLAU'DXA, (Gr. Klavdia, feminine of Claudius.) a Christian female 
mentioned in 2 Tim. iv, 21, as saluting Timotheus. A. D. 66. By some 
she is thought to have been the daughter of the British king, Cogiduuus, 
and the wife of Pudens, (mentioned in the same verse,) and sent to Rome to 
be educated ; that there she was the protege of Pomponia, (wife of the late 
commander in Britain, Aulus Plautius,) and became a convert to Christian- 
ity, On the other hand, it may be said that this attempt at identification 
rests on no other foundation than the identity of the names of the parties, 
which, in the case of names so common as Pudens and Claudia, may be 
nothing more than a mere accidental coincidence. (Conybeare and How- 
son’s St. Paul , ii, 484, note ; M ’Clin took and Strong’s Cyclopaedia , s. v.) 

CLAUDIUS, (Gr. K Aavdiof, perhaps from claudus, lame.) 

1. The fourth Roman emperor, (excluding Julius Caesar,) who succeeded 
Caligula, January 25, A. D. 41. (1) Early Life. He was the son of Drusus 

and Antonia, and was born August 1, B. C. 10, at Lyons, in Gaul. Losing 
his father in infancy, he was left to the care and society of domestics, and 
despised by his imperial relatives. Notwithstanding the weakness of in- 
tellect resulting from this neglect, he devoted himself to literary pursuits, 
and was the author of several treatises. On the murder of Caligula he hid 
himself through fear of a similar fate, but was found by a soldier, who saluted 
him as emperor. (2) As Emperor. He was taken, almost by force, to the 
popular assembly, and constituted emperor chiefly by the Praetorian guards, 
under the promise of. a largess to each soldier. According to Josephus, the 
throne was, in a great measure, finally secured to him through the address 
and solicitation of Herod Agrippa. This obligation he returned by great 
favors to that personage, enlarging his territory, and appointing his brother 
Herod to the kingdom of Chalcis, (Josephus, Ant., xix, 5, 1,) giving to this 
latter also, after his brother’s death, the presidency over the temple at Jeru- 
salem. (Josephus, Ant., xx, 1, 3.) The Jews were generally treated by him 
with indulgence, especially those in Asia and Egypt, (Ant., xix, 5, 2, 3 ; 
xx, 1, 2.) although those in Palestine seem to have, at times, suffered much 
oppression at the hands of his governors. About the middle of his reign 
those who abode at Rome were all banished. Acts xviii, 2. A. D. probably 
49. The conduct of Claudius during his governmeut, in so far as it was 


102 


CLEMENT— CORNELIUS. 


not under the influence of his wives and freedmen, was mild and popular, 
and he made several beneficial enactments. Having married his niece, 
Agrippina, she prevailed upon him to set aside his own son, Brtannicus, 
in favor of her son, Nero, by a former marriage ; but discovering that he 
regretted this step, she poisoned him on the 13th of October, A. D. 54. 

2. Claudius Lysias. Acts xxiii, 26. See Lysias. 

CLEM'ENT, (Gr. K ^yprjg, merciful ,) a person (apparently a Christian 
of Philippi) mentioned by Paul (Phil, iv, 3) as one whose name was in the 
book of life. A. D. 64. This Clement was, by the ancient Church, identified 
wiili the bishop of Rome of the same name. 

OLE'OPAS, (contraction of Gr. KXeonarpoc, of a renowned father ,) one 
of the two disciples who were going to Eramaus on the day of the resur- 
rection, when Jesus drew near and conversed with them. Luke xxiv, 18. 

A. D. 29. He questioned them as to the subject of tlieir conversation, 
chided them for their ignorance and unbelief, and expounded to them the 
Scriptures which foretold his sufferings and glory. Arriving at Emmaus, 
they secured his presence at the evening meal, during which he was made 
known to them. They hastened back to Jerusalem and acquainted the 
disciples with what they had seen and heard. Cleopas must not be con- 
founded with Cleophas, (q. v.,) or rather Glopas , of John xix, 25. 

CLE'OPHAS, or rather CLO'PAS, the husband of Mary, (q. v.,) the 
sister of Christ’s mother, (John xix, 25 ;) probably a Grecized form of Al- 
piiaeus, (q. v.) 

COL-HO'ZEH, (Heb. Kol-chozeh', every seer,) a descendant of 

Judah, being the son of Hazaiah, and father of one Baruch. Neh. xi, 5. 

B. C. before 445. He had also a son named Shallum, who repaired part of 
the wall of Jerusalem after the captivity. Neh. iii, 15. 

CONANFAH, (Heb. Konanya'hu, }iT133, settled by Jehovah.') 

1 . A person appointed by Hezekiah to superintend the disposal of ;£ the 
offerings, tithes, and the dedicated things ” which were brought to the tem- 
ple. 2 Chron. xxxi, 12, 13. B. C. 726. The name is sometimes Angli- 
cised “ CONONIAH.” 

2. A person who, with several of his kindred, made large offerings for 
the paschal sacrifices as renewed by Josiah. 2 Chron. xxxv, 9. B. C. about 
623. 

CONFAH, (a contracted form of Jeconiah,) another mode of writing (Jer. 
xxii, 24, 28 ; xxxvii, 1) the name of King Jehoiachin, (q. v.) 

CONONFAH, 2 Chron. xxxi, 12, 1.3. See Conaniah. 

CO'RE, a mode of Grecizing (Jude 11) the name of the rebellious 
Korah, (q. v.) 

CORNE'LIUS, (Gr. Kopvrj'Xiog.) (1) Family. A centurion of the Italian 
band stationed at Caesarea, and most probably of the Gornelii, a noble and dis- 
tinguished family at Rome. His history is given in Acts x. He is described 
(ver. 2) as “ a devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, 
which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God always.” (2) Re- 
lation to Judaism. By some it is contended that he was a proselyte of the 
gate, or a Gentile, who, having renounced idolatry, and worshiping the 


COSAM— CUSH. 


103 


true God, submitted to the seven (supposed) precepts of Noah, frequented 
the synagogue, and offered sacrifices by the bands of the priests, but, not 
having received circumcision, was not reckoned among the Jews. Of the 
truth of this there is no positive evidence. Yet Cornelius appears to have 
been in that class of persons described by Bishop Tomline, consisting of Gen- 
tiles who had so far benefited by their contact with the Jewish people as 
to have become convinced that theirs was the true religion. They; conse- 
quently, worshiped the true God, were acquainted with the Scriptures of 
the Old Testament, and observed several Jewish customs, as, for instance, 
their hours of prayer, or any thing else that did not involve an act of spe- 
cial profession. (3) Sends for Peter. While in prayer an angel appeared 
to him and declared that his “ prayers and alms had come up for a memo- 
rial before God,” and directed him to send to Joppa for Peter. The mes- 
sengers were received and hospitably entertained by Peter, who had been 
prepared by the revelations of the noonday vision. Arriving at the house 
of Cornelius, Peter proceeded to explain his vision, when the Holy Ghost 
fell upon the Gentiles present, and they were “ baptized in the name of 
the Lord.” Acts x. A. D. 41. Cornelius thus became the first-fruit of the 
Gentile world to Christ, and was publicly recognized as such. According 
to Jerome, he built a Christian church at Caesarea, but later tradition makes 
him bishop of Scamandios, (Scamandria ?) and ascribes to him the working 
of a great miracle. (Smith, s. v .) 

CO'SAM, (Gr. Kuodfi, a diviner ,) the son of Elmodam and father of 
Addi, in the line of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Luke iii, 28. 

COZ, (Heb. kots, pp, a thorn,) the lather of Anub and others of the pos- 
terity of Judah, (1 Cliron. iv, 8,) where, however, his own parentage is not 
stated, unless he be a son or brother of Ashur, in ver. 5. B. C. before 1300. 

COZ'BI, (Heb. Kozbi', *> 313 , false,) the daughter of Zur, a Midianitish 

prince. While in the act of committing lewdness with Zimri, an Israelitish 
chief, she was slain bj r Phineas, who thrust a javelin through them both. 
Num. xxv, 15, 18. B. C. 1452. 

CRES'CENS, (Gr. K prjourjs, growing ,) an assistant of the apostle Paul, 
who left Rome for Galatia. 2 Tim. iv, 10. A. D. 66. Of him nothing fur- 
ther is known, the accounts of his having been a preacher in Galatia, and 
having founded the church in Yienne, are mere legendary glosses on this 
passage. (Ellicott’s Commentary , in loco.) 

CRIS'PUS, (Gr. Kpionos, curled ,) chief of the Jewish synagogne at Cor- 
inth, (Acts xviii, 8,) converted and baptized by the apostle Paul. 1 Cor. 
i, 14. A. D. 54. According to tradition he became afterward bishop of 
jEgina. 

CUSH, (Heb. Kush, &»*|3.) 

1. A son (probably the eldest) of Ham. B. C. about 2250. In the gene- 
alogy of Noah’s children it is said, “ Cush begat Nimrod.” Genesis x, 8 ; 
1 Chron. i, 10. A uumber of his descendants are also mentioned. 

2. A Benjamite, mentioned in the title of Psalm vii, respecting whom 
nothing more is known than that the psalm is there said to have been com- 
posed “concerning his words,” (or affairs.) B. C. 1061. He appears to 
have been an enemy of David and seeking an opportunity of injuring him, 
but to have been unsuccessful. Yer. 15. 


104 


CtJSHAN— CYRUS. 


CU'SHAN, (Heb. Kushan ', f£h|3,) if the name of a person, is perhaps the 

Same as Cushan-rishathaim, (Authorized Version, “ Ghushan,”) king of Meso- 
potamia. Judg. iii, 8, 10. Gresenius considers Cushan but another form of 
Cush, by which he understands Ethiopia. 

CU'SHI, (Heb. Kushi ', '£* 12 , Cushite i or Ethiopian.) 

1. The messenger sent by Joab to announce to David the success of the 

battle against Absalom, and the death of the young prince. 2 Sam. xviii, 
21-23, 31, 32. 13. C. 1023. 

2. The father of Shelemiah, and great-grandfather of Jehudi, which last 
was sent by the Jewish magnates to invite Baruch to read his roll to them. 
Jer. xxxvi, 14. B. C. about 606, 

3. The son of Gedaliah and father of the prophet Zephaniah, Zeph. i, 1. 
B. C. before 630. 

CYRE'NIUS (whose full name was Publius Sulpicius Quirinus) was 
the second of that name mentioned in Roman history, and was consul with 
M. Valerius Messala. B. C. 12. Some years after, A. D. 6, he was made 
governor of Syria, and made there and in Judea a census, Or anoypa&f/. He 
was a favorite with Tiberius, and on his death, A. D. 21, he was buried 
with public honors by the senate at the request of the emperor. The cen- 
sus above named seems, in Luke, (ii, 2,) to be identified with one winch took 
place at the time of the birth of Christ, when Sentius Saturnius was gov- 
ernor of Syria. Hence has arisen a considerable difficulty, which has been 
variously solved, either by supposing some corruption in the text of St. 
Luke, or by giving some unusual sense to his words. But A. W, Zumpt, of 
Berlin, has shown it to be probable that Quirinus was twice governor of 
Syria, and, by very striking and satisfactory arguments, fixes the time of 
his first governorship at from B. C. 4 to B. 0. 1, when he was succeeded by 
M. Loilius. 

CY'RUS, (Heb. Ko'resh, the celebrated Persian king and con- 

queror of Babylon, who promulgated the first edict for the restoration of the 
Jews to their own land. Ezra i, 1, etc. 

1. Personal History. (1) Family. He was the son of the daughter 
of Astvages, the last king of Media, and Cambyses, a Persian noble. 
His grandfather sought to destroy the child, but it was spared by those 
whom he charged with the commission of the crime, and Cyrus grew up 
in obscurity under the name of Agradates. (2) King. The tyranny of 
Astyages alienated a large faction of the Medes, and Cyrus headed a revolt, 
which ended in the defeat and capture of the Median king, B. C. 559, near 
Pasargadse. (3) Conquests. After consolidating the empire he thus gained,* 
Cyrus entered on that career of conquest which has made him the hero of 
the East. In B. C. 546 (?) he defeated Croesus, and the kingdom of Lydia 
was the prize of his success. Babylon fell before his army, and the ancient 
dominions of Assyria were added to his empire. B. C. 538. It is probable 
that Cyrus planned an invasion of Egypt ; and there are traces of cam- 
paigns in Central Asia, in which he appears to have attempted to extend his 
power to the Indus. (4) Death. Afterward he attacked the Massagetae, 
and, according to Herodotus, fell in a battle against them. B. C. 529. His 
tomb is still shown at Pasargadse, the scene of his first decided victory. 


DALAIAH — DAN. 


105 


2. Character. Cyrus was a generous liberator, and a just guardian of 
the rights of the Jews. In Isaiah lie is recognized as a shepherd’ 5 of 
the Lord (chap, xliv, 28) and an “ anointed ” king. Chap, xlv, 1. In acting 
as a friend to the Jews, and promoting their return to Jerusalem, Cyrus 
attaches them to himself as a garrison at an important post. But we may 
believe that a higher motive conspired with this. The Persian religion was 
monotheistic* and strikingly free from idolatry, and it is credible, therefore, 
that a sincere admiration of the Jewish faith actuated the noble Persian 
when he exclaimed, iu the words of the book of Ezra, “ Go ye up and build 
Jerusalem the house of Jehovah, God of Israel; he is God!" and forced the 
Babylonian temples to disgorge their ill-gotten spoils. The edict of Cyrus 
for the rebuilding of the temple (2 Cliron. xxxvi, 22, 23 ; Ezra i, 14 ; iii, 7 ; 
iv. 3; v, 13, 17; vi, 3) was, in fact, the beginning of Judaism; and the 
great changes by which the nation was transformed into a Church are clearly 
marked. 

DALAI'AH, (1 Chron. iii, 24,) the same name elsewhere more correctly 
Anglicised Delaiah, (q. v., No. 1.) 

DAL'PHON, (Heb. Dalphon ', jiElVl,) the second of the ten sons of Ha- 
man, killed by the Jews on the 13th of Adar, Esther ix, 7. B. C. about 509. 

DAM'ARIS, (Gr. A u/naptc, perhaps Damalis , a heifer ,) an Athenian 
woman converted to Christianity by Paul’s preaching. Acts xvii, 34. A. D. 
54. Chrysostom and others believed her to have been the wife of Dionysius 
the Areopagite, but apparently for no other reason than that she is men- 
tioned With him in this passage. 

DAN, (Heb. id., jl, a judge,) the fifth son of Jacob, and the first of Bil- 

hah, Rachel’s maid. Gen. xxx, 6. B. C. 1748. 

1. Personal History. Of the patriarch himself no incident is preserved. 
By the blessing of Jacob on his death-bed it was settled that Dan and his 
other sons by handmaids should be legally entitled to a portion of the 
family inheritance. 

2. Tribe of Dan. (1) Numbers. Only one son is attributed to Dan, 

(Gen. xlvi, 23,) but it may be observed that “ Hushim” is a plural form, as 
if the name, not of an individual, but of a family. At the Exodus the tribe 
of Dan numbered 62,700 warriors, (Num. i, 39,) and at the second census 
64,400, holding their rank as second. (2) Position in Camp. Dan’s position 
in the journey was on the north of the Tabernacle, with Asher and Napli- 
tali. The standard of the tribe was of white and red, and the crest upon it 
an Cagle, the great foe to serpents, which had been chosen by the leader in- 
stead of a serpent, because Jacob had compared Dan to a serpent. Ahiezer 
substituted the eagle* the destroyer of serpents, as he shrank from carrying 
an adder upon his flag. (3) Prominent Persons. One who played a prom- 
inent partin the wanderings was “ Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the 
tribe of Dan.” Exod. xxxi, 6, et seq. Samson was also a Danite. Judges 
xiii, 2. (4) Territory. Dau was the last of the tribes to receive his por- 

tion, which was the smallest of the twelve. It had, however, great natural 
advantages ; was very fertile, and had also a line of sea-coast, which seems 
to have led them to engage in fishing and commerce, for, in the war of Sisera 
and Barak, Dan remained in ships. Judg. v, 17. (5) Capture of Laish. 


106 


DANIEL. 


Crowded by the Amorites from the rich lowlands up into the mountains, the 
Danites turned their attention to territory in the north of Palestine. A force 
of 600 men was sent, who captured and burned Laish, afterward rebuild- 
ing it and naming it Dan. Judg. xviii, 14-29. This city, with others, was 
laid waste by Benhadad, (1 Kings xv, 20 ; 2 Chron. xvi, 4,) and this is the 
last mention of the place. 

DAN'IEL, (Heb. DaniyeV, God is my judge, or judge of God.) 

1. The second son of David by Abigail, the Carmelitess. 1 Chron. iii, 1. B. C. 
about 1053. In the parallel passage, 2 Sam. iii, 3, he is called Chileab. 

2. The celebrated prophet and minister at the court of Babylon, whose 

life and prophecies are contained in the book bearing his name. Nothing is 
known of his parentage or family, but he appears to have been of royal or 
noble descent, (Dan. i, 3,) and to have possessed considerable personal en- 
dowments. Chap, i, 4. (1) Early Life. He was taken to Babylon, wh’le 

yet a boy, together with three other Hebrew youths of rank, Hananiah, 
Mishael, and Azariah, at the first deportation of the people of Judah in the 
fourth year of Jehoiakira. B. C. 606. (2) Enters the King’s Service. He 

and his companions were obliged to enter the service of the royal court of 
Babylon, on which occasion he received the Chaldean name of Belteshazzar, 
according to the Eastern custom when a change takes place in one’s condi- 
tion of life, and more especially if his personal liberty is thereby affected. 
(Compare 2 Kings xxiii, 34; xxiv, 17.) Daniel, like Joseph, gained the 
favor of his guardian, and was allowed by him to carry out his wise inten- 
tion of abstaining from unclean food and idolatrous ceremonies. Chapter 
i, 8-16. His prudent conduct and absolute refusal to comply with such 
customs were crowned with the divine blessing, and had the most impor- 
tant results. Another reason, of a sanitary nature, may also be assigned 
for this temperance, as it is probable he was at this time undergoing the 
curative process after emasculation, iu accordance with the barbarous cus- 
tom of Oriental courts. (M’Cliutoek and Strong’s Cyclopcedia.) (3) Inter- 
prets Dreams. After three years of discipline Daniel was presented to the 
king, and shortly after he had an opportunity of exercising his peculiar gift 
(chap, i, 17) of interpreting dreams — not only recalling the forgotten vision 
of the king, but also revealing its meaning. Chap, ii, 14, sq. As a reward 
he was made “ ruler over the whole province of Babylon,” and “ chief of 
the governors over all the wise men of Babylon.” Chap, ii, 48. Later he in- 
terpreted another of Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams, to the effect that he was to 
lose, for a time, his throne, but to be again restored to it after his humilia- 
tion had been completed. Dan. iv. (4) In Betirement. Under the unwor- 
thy successors of Nebuchadnezzar Daniel appears to have occupied an in- 
ferior position, (Dan. viii, 27,) and no longer to have been “ master of the 
magicians,” (iv, 8, 9,) probably living at Susa. Chap, viii, 2. In the first 
year of King Belshazzar, (cltap. vii, 1,) B. C. about 555, he was both alarmed 
and comforted by a remarkable vision, (chap, vii,) followed by one two years 
later, (chap, viii,) which disclosed to him the future course of events and 
the ultimate fate of the most powerful empires of the world, but in particu- 
lar their relations to the kingdom of God, and its development, to the great 
consummation. (5) Eestored to Office. He interpreted the handwriting on 
the wall which disturbed the feast of Belshazzar, (chap, v, 10-28,) and, not- 
withstanding his bold denunciation of the king, the latter appointed him the 


DARA— DARIUS. 


107 


“ third ruler of the kingdom.” Chap, v, 29. After the fall of Babylon, Darius 
ascended the throne and made Daniel the first of the “ three presidents” of 
the empire. Chap, vi, 2. In deep humility and prostration of spirit he then 
prayed to the Almighty, in the name of his people, for forgiveness of their 
sins, and for the divine mercy in their behalf ; and the answering promises 
which he received far exceeded the tenor of his prayer, for the visions of 
the seer were extended to the end of Judaism. Chap. ix. (6) Persecution. 
His elevation to the highest post of honor, and the scrupulous discharge of his 
official duty, aroused the envy and jealousy of his colleagues, who conspired 
against him. They persuaded the monarch to pass a decree forbidding any 
one, for thirty days, to offer prayer to any person save the king. For his 
disobedience the prophet was thrown into a den of lions, but was miracu- 
lously saved and again raised to the highest posts of honor. Chapter vi. 
(7) Patriotism. He lived to enjoy the happiness of seeing his people re- 
stored to their own land, and though his advanced age would not allow 
him to be among those who returned to Palestine, yet did lie never for a 
moment cease to occupy his mind and heart with his people and their con- 
cerns. Chap, x, 12. At the accession of Cyrus he still retained his prosper- 
ity. Chap, i, 21 ; vi, 28. (8) Visions. In the third year of Cyrus he had a 

series of visions, in which he was informed of the minutest details respecting 
the future history and sufferings of his nation to the period of their true 
redemption through Christ, as also a consolatory notice to himself to pro- 
ceed calmly and peaceably to the end of his days, and then await patiently 
the resurrection of the dead. Chaps, x-xii. It is not worth while to men- 
tion here the various fables respecting the later life and death of Daniel, as 
all accounts are vague and confused. (Smith, &.«?.) 

2. Character. In the prophecies of Ezekiel mention is made of Daniel 
as a pattern of righteousness (chap, xiv, 14, 20) and wisdom, (chap, 
xxviii, 3,) and, since Daniel was still young at that time, (B. C. 594-588.) 
some have thought that another prophet must be referred to. But Daniel 
was conspicuous for purity and knowledge at a very early age, (Dan. i, 4, 
17, 20,) and he was probably over thirty years of age at the time of Eze- 
kiel’s prophecy. 

3. A priest of the family of Ithamar who returned from the exile with Ezra. 
Ezra viii, 2. B. C. about 457. He is probably the same with the prie«t Daniel 
who joined in the covenant drawn up by Nehemiah. Neh. x, 6. B. C. 415. 

DA'RA, (Heb. Dara ', JTfl,) a contracted or corrupt form (1 Chron. ii, 6) 
of the name Darda, (q. v.) -T 

DAR'DA, fHeb. pearl of knowledge ,) a son of Mahal, one of the 

four men of great fame for their wisdom, but surpassed by Solomon. 1 Kings 
iv, 31. B. C. before 1014. In 1 Chron. ii, 6, however, the same four names 
occur again as “sons of Zerah,” of the tribe of Judah, with the slight dif- 
ference that Darda appears as Dara. Although the identity of these persons 
with those in 1 Kings iv has been much debated, they are doubtless the same. 

D ARHUS, (Heb. Dareya'vesh , pty-H, perhaps coercer or conservator.) 

1. Darius the Mede, (Dan. xi, 1,) “ the son of Ahasuerus of the seed of 
the Medes,” (chap. ix, 1,) who succeeded to the kingdom on the death of 
Belshazzar, being then about 62 years old. Chap, v, 31. B. C. 538. Only one 
year of his reign is mentioned, (Dan. ix, 1 ; x*,) but that was of vast impor- 


108 


DARKOH. 


tance to the Jews. Daniel was advanced by the king to the greatest dig- 
nity, (Dan. vi. 1, sq t .) and, after his nnraculous deliverance, Darius issued a 
decree enjoining throughout his dominions “ reverence for the God of Dan- 
iel/' Dan. vi, 25, sq. identification. The extreme obscurity of the Baby- 
lonian annals has given occasion to three different hypotheses as to the 
name under which Darius the Mede is known in history. Without repro- 
ducing the discussion here, it is proper to say that the best authorities differ, 
some identifying him with Cyaxeres and others with Astyages, the last king 
of the Medes. 

2. Darius, the son of Hystaspes, the founder of the Perso- Aryan dynasty. 

. IDir-presumptive of the throne, he headed an insurrection against the im- 
postor Smerdis, who was slain after a reign of eight months. Darius as- 
cended the throne B. C. 521, and held it for nearly thirty-six years. He was 
at once a conqueror and administrator, devoting himself to the internal or- 
ganization of his kingdom, which had been impeded by the wars of Cyrus 
and Cambyses, and the confusion of the reign of Smerdis. (1) Wars. 
During the earlier part of his reign he was engaged in a series of struggles 
against rebellions which broke out in all parts of the empire. Susiana, 
Babylonia, Persia Proper, Media, Assyria, Armenia. Hyrcania, Parthia, Mar- 
giana, Sagartia, and Sacia successively revolted. Within six years, how- 
ever, the rebellions were put down, the pretenders executed, and tranquillity 
generally restored throughout the provinces. B. C. 521-515, After the 
subjugation of Babylon Darius turned his arms against Scythia, Libya, and 
India. Thrace and Macedonia acknowledged his supremacy, and some of 
the islands of the iEgean were added to his dominions. Shortly afterward 
he came into collision with Greece, and the defeat of Marathon (B. 0. 490) 
only roused him to prepare vigorously for that decisive struggle with the 
West which was now inevitable. Preparations for a third expedition were 
thwarted by the revolt of Egypt, and then by his own death. B. C. 486. 
(2) Death. He probably died at Susa, but was buried in the vicinity of 
Persepolis, where he had prepared himself an elaborate rock tomb. Darius 
pursued the same policy as Cyrus toward the Jews, and restored to them the 
privileges they had lost. In the second year of his reign Haggai (Hag. i, 
1, 15; ii, 10) and Zechariah (Zech. i, 1, 7) encouraged their countrymen to 
resume the work of restoration, (Ezra v, 1, sq.,) and when their proceedings 
came to the king's knowledge he confirmed the decree of Cyrus by a new 
edict, and the temple was finished in four years, (B. C. 516; Ezra vi, 15.) 
though it was apparently used before that time. Zech. vii, 1-3. 

3. “ Darius the Persian ” occurs Neh. xii, 22, where it is stated that the 
succession of the priests was registered up to his reign. To identify this 
Darius is a matter of great difficulty, and seems to depend upon the under- 
standing of the above passage. If the list was completed by Ezra and Ne- 
hemiah, including Jaddua, (q. v.,) then Darius No thus (Ochus) is the per- 
son ; but if the register was continued to a later time, then we must identify 
him with Darius Dodomanus, who was overthrown by Alexander the 
Great. B. C. 336-330. He is named as “ king of the Persians and Medes” 
in 1 Macc. i, 1. (M'Clintock and Strong, Cyclopaedia , s.v.] Smith, s. v .) 

DAR'KON, (Heb. Darkon', jipvj, strewer , or porter ,) one whose “ chil- 
dren,” or descendants, were among the “ servants of Solomon ” who returned 
from Babylou with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 56 ; Hell, vii, 58. B. C. about 536. 











JERUSALEM AT 


1 Camp of theAsyyi 
2. Almond Pool 


j 3. Tomb of II. Priest John 
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Bab el Kittd 32 

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DATHAN — DAVID. 


109 


DATHAN, (Heb. Balkan’, frn, of a spring , or well,) a Renbenite chief- 

1 T V 

tain, son of Eliab, who joined the conspiracy of Korah, the Levite, and, 
with his accomplices, was swallowed up by an earthquake. Num. xvi, 1, sq. ; 
xxvi, 9; DeUt. xi, 6; Psa. Cvi, 17. B. C. about 1471. 

DA VID. — 1. Name and Family. (Heb. David', TH, [full form, TH,] 
affectionate , or beloved,) the second of the Jewish kings. ’ T 


DAVID’S FAMILY REGISTER. 


Salrtion 
or Saimah 
(Ruth iv* 21, 

1 Chron. ii, 11.) 


Elimelech to Naomi (Ruth i, 1.) 


Boaz to Ruth to Mahlon 
| (Ruth Iv, 10.) 
Obfed (Ruth iv, 17i) 


Chilion to Orpah. 


(2 Sam. xvil, 25) Nahash to unknown ! to Jesse, 


Jonathan (1 Chron. xrvii, 32.) 


Zeruiah 
(1 Chron. 
ii, 16.) 


Abigail to 
Jetiier ot 
IrallChr. 

ii, 17.) 
(Jerome, 
Qu. Heb. on 
1 Chron. 
xi, 40.) 


Eliab, 
Elihu 
(1 Chr. 
xxvli, 
18.) 


"1 


Abisnai. Joab. Asahel. Ainasa. Abi 


Abinadab. Shammah, Nethaneel. Raddal Ozem (one DAVII 

Shimma, (Rael, (Asam, is not 

Shltneah Joseph. Joseph, given, 

(2 Sam. Ant. vi. Ant. vi, unless 

xxi, 21.) 8, 1 ; 8, 1.) Elihu, 

Rei, Syr. and 

Ewald.) Arab., 

1 < hron. 
ii, 15.) 


Zebadiah 
(1 Chroh. 
xxvii, 7.) 


ail to Re- 
heboam (2 Chr. 
xi, 19.) 


Jonathan 
(2 Sam. xxi, 21 ; 
1 Chron. xxvii, 
32.) (Nathan 1 
Jer. Qu. Heb. on 
1 Sam. xvi, 1 2.) 


Jonadab 
(2 Sam. 
xiii, 3.) 


Joel! 
(Jerome, 
Qu. Heb. 
on 1 Chron. 
xi, 38.)' 


From the above register we learn several facts of importance. David’s 
father, Jesse, was partly of Moabitish origin, being the grandson of Boaz 
and Ruth. His mother’s name is unknown, and “all we know of her 
character is derived from two brief allusions to her in the poetry of her son, 
from which we may gather that she was a godly woman, whose devotion to 
God’s service David commemorates as at once a token of God’s favor to 
himself and a stimulus to him to consecrate himself to God.” Psa. lxxxvi, 
16 ; cxvi, 16. — Kitto. David, born in Bethlehem B. C. 1083, was the 
youngest of seven sons, (or eight if we admit Elihu, mentioned in the Syriac 
and Arabic Versions.) His sisters were Zeruiah and Abigail, though they 
are not expressly called the daughters of Jesse; and Abigail (2 Sam. 
xvii, 25) is called the daughter of Nahash, (q. v.) As the youngest of the 
family he may have possibly received the name, which first appears in him, 
of David the. Darling. Perhaps for this same reason he was never intimate 
with his brethren. The familiarity which he lost with his brolhers he 
gained with his nephews, the three sons of his sister Zeruiah, and the one 
son of his sister Abigail 

2. Personal History. David’s life may be divided into three periods : 
I. His youth. II. His relations with Saul. III. His reign. 



110 


DAVID. 


I. His Youth. (1) As shepherd. By his elder brothers David seems 

to have been held in small esteem, and to him was allotted the humble 
office of tending the flocks. While thus occupied he beguiled the time with 
music, and as a minstrel gained considerable renown. 1 Sam. xvi, 18. 
One incident alone of his solitary shepherd life has come down to us — his 
conflict with the lion and the bear in defense of his father’s flocks. 1 Sam. 
xvii, 34-36. (2) Anointed king. After the rejection of Saul, the Lord 

commanded Samuel to go to Bethlehem and anoint one of the sons of Jesse 
as king. He therefore took a heifer, went to Bethlehem, and summoned 
Jesse and his sons to the sacrifice. The heifer was killed, and the party 
were waiting to begin the feast. As the sons appeared before Samuel, be- 
ginning with the eldest, he was restrained by divine intimation from choos- 
ing them. Seven had thus passed by, and Samuel said unto Jesse, “ Are 
here all thy children ? ” Jesse replied, “ There remaineth yet the youngest, 
and, behold, he keepeth the sheep.” In obedience to the command of the 
prophet, David was sent for. Soon there entered a youth, ruddy, and withal 
of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look to, [ruddy, of beautiful eyes 
and good looks , Keil,] and, therefore, so far as his looks and figure were 
concerned, well fitted, notwithstanding his youth, for the office to which 
the Lord had chosen him. “And the Lord said, Arise, anoint him: for this 
is he. Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of 
his brethren: and the Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day 
forward.” It is not probable that Samuel said any thing at that time about 
the meaning and object of the anointing, but possibly before leaving com- 
municated all to David and Jesse. 1 Sam. xvi, 1-13. B. C. 1063. 

II. His Relations with Saul. (1) Introduction. With the rejection of 
Saul on the part of God, the Spirit of Jehovah departed from him, and an evil 
spirit from Jehovah troubled him. When Saul’s attendants noticed the mental 
ailment of the king, they advised him to let the evil spirit be charmed away by 
music, and recommended David as minstrel. David appeared at court, and 
“ when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul David took his harp and played ; 
so Saul was refreshed and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him.” 

1 Sam. xvi, 14-23. (2) Slays Goliath. After Saul's 
condition improved David probably returned to Beth- 
lehem. While the armies of the Philistines and of 
Israel are encamped in “the Terebinth” valley, 
Goliath, a Philistine of gigantic stature, and clothed 
in complete armor, insults the comparatively de- 
fenseless Israelites, among whom the king alone ap- 
pears to be well armed. Chap, xvii, 38; compare 
xiii, 20. No one can be found to take up the 
challenge. At this juncture David appears in the 
camp, sent by Jesse with food for his brethren. He 
hears the challenge, now made for the fortieth time 
— sees the dismay of his countrymen — hears the 
reward proposed by the king — is introduced to 
Saul — undertakes the combat. Rejecting Saul’s 
armor, which he finds too cumbersome, he takes only 
Egyptian ^linger and his shepherd’s staff, a satchel, (in which he places 
five smooth stones from a brook,) and a sling. 
A colloquy takes place between the two combatants, after the manner of 



DAVID. 


Ill 


ancient warfare, and the giant advances. David, placing a stone in his 
sling, sends it whizzing to its mark in the forehead of his opponent, who 
falls with his face to the ground. Rushing forward, he takes the sword of 
Goliath and cuts off his head. 1 Sam. xvii, 1-51. Two trophies long re- 
mained of the battle — one, the huge sword of the Philistine, which wa 3 
hung up behind the ephod of the tabernacle at Nob, (1 Sam. xxi, 9;) the 
other the head of Goliath, which David took to Jerusalem. 1 Sam. xvii, 54. 
(S nith.) (3) In Saul’s Family. When David went forth to meet the Phil- 
istine, Saul inquired of Abner about him. Abner professed ignorance, and 
David was, therefore, upon his return, brought before Saul and questioned. 
He gave the name of his father, and, in all probability, further information 
respecting himself and family as the words of chap, xviii, 1, seem to indi- 
cate a protracted conversation. “ And Saul took him that day, and would 
let him go no more home to his father’s house.” 1 Sam. xvii, 55-xviii, 2. 
(4) Jonathan’s Friendship. It was at this interview that Jonathan found 
Irs heart drawn toward David, and, in the graphic language of Scripture, 
“ his soul was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his 
own soul.” He soon made known his love, and the two young men entered 
into a covenant of friendship which was in the highest degree honorable to 
both, and which, in the case of Jonathan, calls forth our admiration and 
regard. As a sign and pledge of his friendship, Jonathan gave David his 
clothes and armor. Chap, xviii, 1-4. This se^ms to have been a very com- 
mon custom in ancient times. (Compare the exchange of armor made by 
Glaucus and Diomedes, Homer’s Iliad , vi, 230.) (5) Saul’s Jealousy. Da- 
vid conducted himself with great prudence, and Saul placed him above the 
men of war, and made him one of their commanders. Probably some days, 
if not weeks, after David’s victory over Goliath, the Israelites returned from 
pursuing and plundering the Philistines. Then “the women came out of 
all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tabrets, 
with joy, and with instruments of music. And the women answered one 
another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David 
his ten thousands.” These words aroused the jealousy of Saul, who eyed 
David askance and plotted his destruction. Chap, xviii, 5-9. He attempted 
to take David’s life with a javelin, but failed. Yers. 10, 11. Afraid of Da- 
vid, because the Lord was with him, Saul removed him from his immediate 
presence by appointing him a captain over a thousand. But David behaved 
so wisely that all Israel and Judah came to love him as a leader, which fact 
only increased Saul’s animosity. Yers. 12-16. Although he Jiad promised 
to give his daughter (Merab) to the slayer of Goliath, he now offered her 
to David only on condition of future service, hoping for his destruction at 
the hands of the Philistines. Even then he broke his promise, and gave 
his daughter to Adriel, the Meholathite. Yers. 17-19. Learning of David’s 
love for Michal, “Saul said, I will give him her, that she may be a snare 
to him.” The condition was that David should slay a hundred Philistines, 
with the hope that he would fall in the attempt. David slew two hundred 
of the enemy, and received Michal for his. wife. Yer. 20, sq. Saul still fol- 
lowed up his persecution, but David had two faithful friends at court — Jon- 
athan and Michal. Warned by the one of Saul’s purpose to kill him, and as- 
sisted by the other, he escaped by night, (chap, xix, 1-18,) and became 
(6) A fugitive. David saw Jonathau no more except by stealth. Michal 
was given in marriage to another, (Phaltiel,) and was not restored to David 


112 


DAVID. 


until after Saul’s death, (a) With Samuel. David fled to Samuel at Ramah, 
and reported to him all that Saul had done. He, doubtless, sought advice 
from the prophet, and desired to strengthen himself, by intercourse with 
him, for the troubles that still awaited him. He and Samuel went and 
dwelt in Naioth. Saul, learning of David’s whereabouts, sent messengers 
to take him ; but the three companies, as soon as they came into the pres- 



CAVE OF ADULLAM. 


ence of the prophets, were completely disarmed, they themselves prophesy- 
ing. Saul afterward went to Ramah, and made inquiry at Sechu for Samuel 
and David. The Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he went prophesy- 
ing to Naioth. Chap. xix. (h) Consults Jonathan. David fled from Ramah, 
and a secret interview with Jonathan confirmed the alarm already excited 
by Saul’s endeavor to seize him at Ramah, and he now determined to leave 





DAVID. 


113 


his native country and take refuge at the court of his enemy. He and Jon- 
athan renewed their covenant of friendship, and his friend dismissed him 
in peace. Chap. xx. (c) Visits Nub. David repaired to Nob, the seat of t o 
tabernacle, partly to obtain food and weapons, and partly to have an inter- 
view with the high -priest. On the pretext of a secret mission from Saul, 
he gained an answer from the oracle, some of the consecrated bread, and 
the sword of Goliath. Chap, xxi, 1-9. (d) Flees to Gath. David, for fear 

of Saul, repaired to Achish, king of Gath, but it being made known to the 
king that he was the slayer of Goliath, David feigned madness, 'fhe king, 
thereupon, dismissed him from his presence, and David became an outlaw. 
Chap, xxi, 10-15. (7) As an outlaw, (a) In Adullam. He repaired to Adut- 
lam, a awe in Judah, which he made his head-quarters. There came to him 
here his brethren and his father’s house, together with others, (who were in dis- 



tress or had creditors, or were dissatisfied with the government of Saul,) until 
they numbered about four hundred men. Chap, xxii, 1,2. B. C. about 1062. 
(b) In the hold. His next move was to a stronghold, either the mountain aft- 
erward called Herodium, close to Adullam, or the fastness called by Josephus 
Masada , the Grecized form of the Hebrew word Matzed, (1 Sam. xxii, 4, 5; 
1 Chron. xii, 16,) in the neighborhood of Engedi. While there he had 
deposited his aged parents, for the sake of greater security, beyond the Jor- 
dan, with their ancestral kinsmen of Moab. 1 Sam. xxii, 3. In so doing 
he was probably influenced by his remembrance of the fact that Naomi and 
her family had found in that land a place of sojourn, and that Ruth, his an- 
cestress, was herself a Moabitess. The neighboring king. Nahash, of Am- 
mon, also treated him kindly. 2 Sam. x, 2. Here occurred the daring 


114 


DAVID. 


exploit of the three heroes who faced death to procure water from the well 
of Bethlehem, and David’s chivalrous answer. 1 Chron. xi, 16-19 : 2 Sam. 
xxiii, 14-17. He was joined here by two separate bands : one, a little body 
of eleven fierce Gadite mountaineers, who swam the Jordan in flood-time 
to reach him, (1 Chron. xii, 8-15;) the other a detachment of men from Ju- 
dah and Benjamin under his nephew Amasai, who henceforth attached him- 
self to David’s fortunes. 1 Chron. xii, 1 6-1 8. (c) In Keilah. At the warning 
of God he fled into the forest of Hareth, (somewhere in the hills of Judah,) 
and then again fell in with the Philistines, and again, apparently advised by- 
God, (1 Sam. xxiii, 4,) made a descent on their foraging parties and relieved 
Keilah, in which he took up his abode. While there, now for the first time 
in a fortified town of his own, (chap, xxiii, 7,) he was joined by a new 
and most important ally — Abiathar, the last survivor of the house of Itha- 
mar. By this time the four hundred who had joined him at Adullam (chap, 
xxii, 2) had swelled to six hundred. Chap, xxiii, 13. (c?) In Ziph and Maon. 

The situation of David was now changed by the appearance of Saul him- 
self on the scene. Apparently the danger was too great for the little army 
to keep together. They escaped from Keilah, and dispersed “ whitherso- 
ever they could go,” among the fastnesses of Judah. Henceforth it becomes 
difficult to follow his movements with exactness, partly from ignorance of 
the localities, partly because the same event seems to be twice narrated. 
1 Sam. xxiii, 19-24 ; xxvi, 1-4 ; and perhaps 1 Sam. xxiv, 1-22 ; xxvi, 5-25. 
But thus much we discern : He is in the wilderness of Ziph. While here 
he was visited by Jonathan, who encouraged him and renewed the covenant 
between them. Chap, xxiii, 16-18. Once (or twice) the Ziphites betray his 
movements to Saul. 1 Sam. xxiii, 19 ; xxvi, 1. From thence Saul literally 
hunts him like a partridge, the treacherous Ziphites beating the bushes be- 
fore him, and three thousand men stationed to catch even the print of his 
footsteps on the hills. 1 Sam. xxiii, 14, 22 ; xxiv, 1 1 ; xxvi, 2, 20. David 
finds himself driven to the extreme south of Judah, in the wilderness of 
Maon. On two, if not three, occasions the pursuer and pursued catch sight 
of each other. 1 Sam. xxiii, 25-29 ; xxiv, 1-22 ; xxvi. (See Smith, s. v.) 
Of the first of these escapes the memory was long preserved in the name of 
the “ Rock of Divisions,” given to the cliff down one side of which David 
climbed while Saul was surrounding the hill on the other side, (chap, xxiii, 
25-29,) when he was suddenly called away by the cry of a Philistine inva- 
sion. On another occasion Saul, while seeking David in the wilderness of 

Engedi, entered a cave for a natural 
necessity, not knowing that David and 
his men were concealed there. David 
cut off the skirt of Saul’s long robe. 
He made the deed known, and expos- 
tulated with the king for his treatment 
of him, whereupon reconciliation and 
mutual forgiveness followed. Chapter 
xxiv. The third was in the wilder- 
ness farther south. David penetrated 
into the camp by night, and carried 
MODERN ORIENTAL TRAVELING FLASKS. off the cruse c f Water and the Well- 

knov n royal spear of Saul. Chap, xxvi, 7, 11, 12. The interview that fol- 
lowed was the last between David and Saul. ( e ) David and Nabal. While 



DAVID. 


115 


he was In the wilderness of Maon occurred David’s adventure with Nabal, 
instructive as showing his mode of carrying on the freebooter’s life, and his 
marriage with Abigail. Chap, xxv, 2-42. His marriage with Ahinoam, 
from Jezreel, also in the same neighborhood, (Josh, xv, 55, 56.) seems to 
have taken place a short time before. 1 Sam. xxv, 43 ; xxvii, 3 ; 2 Sam. iii, 2. 
(8) Service under Achish. Wearied with his wandering life, he at last 
crosses the Philistine frontier, not, as before, in the capacity of a fugitive, 
but the chief of a powerful band — his six hundred men now grown into an 
organized force, with their wives and families around them. Chap, xxvii, 
3, 4. After the manner of Eastern potentates, Achish gave him, for his 
support, a city — Ziklag, on the frontier of Philistia. Chap, xxvii, 6. There 
we meet with the first note of time in David’s life. He was settled there 
for a year and four months, (chap, xxvii, 7,) and his increasing importance 
is indicated by the foot that a body of Benjamite archers and slingers, 
twenty-two of whom are specially named, joined him from the very tribe 
of his rival. 1 Cliron. xii, 1-7. During his stay he may possibly have ac- 
quired the knowledge of military organization and weapons of war, (1 Sam 
xiii, 19-23,) in whieh the Philistines surpassed the Israelites, and in which 
lie excelled all the preceding rulers of Israel. David could not enjoy the 
protection of Achish without rendering him service. So he fell upon the 
tribes of the southern desert of Shur, toward the confines of Egypt, the 
Geshu rites, the Gezrites, and the Amalekites, and exhibited their spoil to 
Aehish as having been won in the south of Judah, and from the allied tribes 
of the Jerahmeelites and the Kenites. 1 Sam. xxvii, 8-10. But the confi- 
dence of Achish was not shared bj 7 the Philistine nobles, and David was not 
obliged to go up with them against Saul. Chap. xxix. But lie found that 
during liis absence the Amalekites had smitten Ziklag, burned it down, 
and carried off the women and children. (9) Ziklag Betaken. David and 
his followers were greatly distressed, and David was iu danger of being 
stoned. The excitement was calmed by Abiathar, who directed them to 
pursue the Amalekites, with the promise of success. Guided by a straggler, 
(an Egyptian slave of one of the Amalekites,) and assisted by some of tlio 
chiefs of the Manassites, (1 Cliron. xii, 19-21,) he fell upon the enemy, who 
were feasting in all the disorder of security, and slaughtered them for a 
whole night aud day, only four hundred of the whole tribe escaping. They 
not only recovered their loss, but obtained also a great booty in Oattle from 
the enemy. David divided the spoil among liis six hundred, giving an equal 
share to those remaining with the baggage with those who went to the 
fight. From his own share David sent gifts to requite the friendly inhab- 
itants of the scene of his wanderings. Chap, xxx, 1-31. (10) Saul’s Death. 

Two days after this victory an Amalekite arrived with the news of the fatal 
defeat of Saul at Gilboa. The reception of the tidings of the death of Iim 
rival and of his irieud, the solemn mourning, the execution of the bearer 
of the message, (who declared himself the slayer of Saul,) the pathetic lam- 
entation that followed, well close the second period of David’s life. 2 Sam. 
i, 1-27. B. C. 1056. 

III. David’s Reign. (1) As King of Judah. After the death of Saul 
the surviving members of liis house took refuge on the east of Jordan, 
while David, at the command of God, removed, with his band and all liis 
family, to Hebron. Here'tlie men of Judah came to him and anointed him 
king over their tribe. David was now (B. C. about 1055) thirty years of 

8 


116 


DAVID. 


age, and he reigned in Hebron seven years and six months. 2 Sam. v, 4, 5. 
Thence he sent a message to the men of Jabesh-gilead to thank them for the 
honor paid to Saul’s remains, and to announce his accession to the throne. 
For five years, probably, the dominion of the house of Saul, whose seat was 
now at Mahanaim, did not extend to the west of Jordan, and consequently 
David would be the only Israelite potentate among the western tiibes. 

(a) Marries Maacah. He then strengthened himself by a marriage with 
Maacah, daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur. 2 Sam. iii, 3. From Abigail 
he seems to have received a large private fortune. Concerning his other 
wives we know nothing in particular, only it is mentioned that he had six 
sons by six different mothers in Hebron. Abner gradually brought Israel 
under the dominion of Ish-bosheth, and then endeavored to conquer Judah. 

( b ) Civil war. A civil war ensued, which was only ended by his own death 

and that of Ish-bosheth. The war was begun by Abner’s advance upon 
Gibeon, where he was met by the forces of Judah under Joab, the sou of 
David’s sister Zeruiah. In the battle that ensued the men of Israel were 
routed, and Asahel, a brother of Joab, slain by Abner, whom he was pur- 
suing. 2 Sam. ii, 12, sq. A quarrel between Abuer and Ish-bosheth de- 
cided the former to bring the kingdom over to David, who required, as a 
preliminary proof of sincerity, the restoration of his wife Michal. After 
giving her back, Abner proceeded to win the elders of Israel over to Da- 
vid, but Joab, fearing that he would be displaced by Abner, seized a favor- 
able opportunity of murdering him. David called upon God to witness that 
he was guiltless of Abner’s blood, obliged Joab to join in the universal 
mourning, and himself followed the bier. 2 Sam. iii, 6 , sq. The feeble Ish- 
bosheth, left helpless by the loss of Abner, fell a victim to the conspiracy 
of two of his captains. David took vengeance on the murderers, and buried 
Ish-bosheth in Abner’s tomb at Hebron. 2 Sam. iv. ( c ) Anointed King of 
Israel. The throne, so long waiting lor him, was now vacant, and the united 
voice of the whole people at once called him to occupy it. B. C. about 
1048. A solemn league was made between him and his people, (2 Sam. 
v, 3,) and for the third time David was anointed king. A festival of three 
days celebrated the joyful event. 1 Chron. xii, 39. David’s little band hud 
now swelled into “ a great host, like the host of God,” (1 Chron. xii, .22,) 
and its command was given to his nephew Joab. 2 Sam. ii, 28. The Le- 
vitical tribe, formerly represented by the solitary fugitive Abiathar, now 
came in strength, represented by the head of the rival branch of Eleazar, 
the high-priest, the aged Jehoiada, and his youthful and warlike kinsman 
Zadok. 1 Chron. xii, 27, 28 ; xxvii, 5. The kingdom at first w as a consti- 
tutional one ; for it is stated, “ David made a league with the elders of Is- 
rael in Hebron before Jehovah ; and they anointed David king over Israel.” 
2 Sam. v, 3. Two things first made themselves apparent at Hebron, and 
affected for ill all the rest of his career. The first was the formation of a 
harem, according to the usage of Oriental kings. To the two wives of his 
wandering life he had now added four, and. including Michal, five, 'Ihere 
were born to him in Hebron six sons, one of whom was Absalom. 2 Sum. 
ii, 2; iii, 2-5, 15. The second was the increasing power of his kinsmen 
and chief officers, which the king strove in vain to restrain within the lim- 
its of right. 2 Sam. iii, 31-3&. (2) Reign over all Israel, (a) Jerusalem 

taken. David resolved to remove the seat of government Irom the remote 
Hebron nearer to the center of the country, and his choice fell upon Jerusa- 


DAVID. 


117 


lem, tlie strong city of the Jebusites, situated on a rocky height, 2,600 feet 
above the level of the sea. The lower city had been taken in the time of 
Joshua, but the upper city had hitherto defied all attacks. David resolved 
upon its capture, and offered as a reward to the successful scaler of the preci- 
pice the highest place in the army. Joab was the successful warrior, and 
henceforward continued captain of the host. 1 Citron, xi, 6. The royal resi- 
dence was instantly fixed there, fortifications were added by the king and 
by Joab, and it was known by the special name of the City of David.” 
2 Sant, v, 9 ; 1 Chron. xi, 7. The neighboring nations were partly enraged 
and partly awe-struck. The Philistines made two ineffectual attacks on the 
new king, (2 Sam. v, 17-25,) and a retribution on their former victories took 
place by the capture and conflagration of their own idols. 2 Sam. v, 21 ; 
1 Chron. xiv, 12. Tyre, now for the first time appearing in the sacred his- 
tory, allied herself with Israel ; and Hiram sent cedar wood for the build- 
ings of the new capital, (2 Sara, v, 11,) especially for the palace of David 
himself. 2 Sam. vii, 2. ( b ) The ark removed to Jerusalem. David had now 

the long-desired opportunity for the removal of the ark from its obscurity at 
Kirjatli-jearim, where it had remained since its restoration by the Philis- 
tines. 1 Sam. vi, 21. Thither David went with thirty thousand men, chosen 
from all the tribes, and transported the ark. A temporary halt (owing to 
the death of Uzzah) detained it at the house of Obcd-edom, (2 Sam. vi ; 
1 Chron. xiii,) from which, after three months, it was again moved forward 
with great state to Jerusalem. David prepared for its final transport and 
reception with great care. It was carried by the Levites upon their shoul- 
ders, escorted bv David and his chief warriors, with the elders of Israel. 
David danced in the sacred procession, and gave his soul up to joy as the 
ark passed to its rest in the hill of Zion. Sacrifices were offered, and, amid 
the sound of music and the shouts of the people, the ark was placed in the 
new tabernacle that David had built for it. It was the greatest day of Da- 
vid’s life. One incident only tarnished its splendor — the reproach of Michal, 
liis wife, as he was finally entering his own palace to carry to his own 
household the benediction which he had already pronounced on his people. 
His act of severity toward her was an additional mark of the stress which he 
himself laid on the solemnity. 2 Sam. vi, 20-23 ; 1 Chron. xv, 29. B. C. 
1042. Arrangements were made by David for the whole order of divine 
worship according to the law of Moses. Asaph and his brethren were ap- 
pointed to minister in the daily service before the ark. The office of chief 
door-keeper was committed to Obed-edom, in whose house the ark had 
rested. Zadok and the priests were charged with the daily and other sacri- 
fices at the tabernacle, which remained at Gibeon. 1 Chron. xvi, 37-39. 
(c) David's resolves to build a temple. After this event the king, contrasts g 
his cedar palace with the curtains of the tabernacle, was desirous of build- 
ing a temple for the ark. He communicated his desire to the prophet Na- 
than, who, without waiting to consult God, replied, ‘‘Do all that is in thine 
heart; for God is with thee.” But the word of God came to Nathan that 
same night telling him that David Was not to build a house for God to dwell 
in; that he had been a man of war; that God would first establish his 
house, and that his son should build the temple. 2 Sam. vii ; 1 Chron. xvii. 
Encouraged by the divine approbation, and by the promises given him, Da- 
vid henceforth made it one of the great objects of his reign to gather 
means and materials for this important undertaking, (d) Enemies subdued. 


118 


DAVID. 


His own tlirone and the service of God’s sanctuary being thus established, 
David advanced to the final subjugation of the enemies of Israel. Within 
ten years from the capture of Jerusalem lie had reduced to a state of perma- 
nent subjection the Philistines on the west, (2 Sam. viii, 1 ;) the Moabites 
on the east, (2 Sam. viii, 2 ;) the Syrians ou the north-east, as far as Eu- 
phrates, (2 Sam. viii, 3 ;) the Edomites (2 Sam. viii, 14) on the south ; and 
the Ammonites, who had broken their ancient alliance, and made one grand 
resistance to the advance of the empire. 2 Sam. x, 1-19 ; xii, 26-31. These 
last three wars were entangled with each other. The last and crowning 
point was the siege of Rabbah. (e) Mephibosheth. When David had taken 
up his abode in Jerusalem lie inquired whether there yet survived any of 
Saul’s descendants to whom he might show kindness. Through Ziba, an 
old steward of Saul’s, he learned of Mephibosheth, a son of Jonathan. He 
sent for him, returned to him Saul’s family possessions, and gave him a place 
at the king’s tab e. 2 Sam. ix, 13. (/) Three years' famine. About this time 

a three years’ famine terrified Israel, which induced David to inquire of the 
Lord the cause of this judgment. The Lord replied, “ It is for Saul, and 
for his bloody house, because he slew the Gibeonites.” Nothing further is 
known about the fact itself. The Gibeonites were sent for, and upon their 
requisition David gave up to them two sons of Rizpah, a concubine of Saul, 
and five sons of Merab, whom she had borne to Adriel. These were slain, 
and'their bodies, left uncared for, were watched over by Rizpah. Word was 
brought to David, who had the bones of these crucified men, together with 
those of Saul and Jonathan, which were brought from Jabesli, honorably 
deposited in the family tomb at Zelah, in the tribe of Benjamin. It is prob- 
able that this was the time when David spared Mephibosheth, in order to 
fulfill his covenant with Jonathan. 2 Sam. x>i, 1—14. B. C. 1040. ( g ) Da- 

vid's adultei'y. The notion of the East, in ancient and modern times, has 
her n that a well-filled harem is essential to the splendor of a princely court. 
This opened a dangerous precipice in David’s way, and led to a most griev- 
ous fall. Walking upon the roof of his house, he saw a woman washing 
herself. The beauty of the woman excited David’s lust, and he inquired of 
his'servants who she was. “Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife 
of Uriah the Hittite,” was the reply. Notwithstanding she was the wife 
of another, David sent for her, and she appears voluntarily to have acceded 
to his sinful purpose. In order to cover up his sin, and secure Bath-sheba 
for his wife, David sent Uriah into battle under circumstances that caused 
his death, and thus added murder to his other crime. Chap. xi. The clouds 
from this time gathered over David’s fortunes, and henceforward “ the 
sword never departed from his house.” 2 Sam. xii, 10. There followed the 
outrage of his daughter, Tamar, by his eldest son, Amnon, and the murder 
of the latter by the servants of Absalom. Chap. xiii. ( h ) Absalom's rebell- 
ion. Absalom fled and went to Talmai, the son of Ammiliud, king of Ge- 
shur, where he remained three years, after which he was recalled to Jeru- 
salem, but dwelt in his own house “ two full years, and saw not the king’s 
face.” After this he sent for Joab, afld, through his mediation, was ad- 
mitted into his father’s presence. Chap. xiv. Absalom soon began to aspire 
to the throne, and, under pretense of wanting to fulfill a vow, he gained 
permission to go to Hebron, where he strengthened his conspiracy. Hear- 
ing of Absalom’s conduct, David fled from Jerusalem, (chap, xv, 13, sq.,) 
and passed over Jordan. B. C. 1023. Mahanaim was the capital of David’s 


DAVID. 


119 


exile, as it had been of the exiled house of Saul. 2 Sam. xvii, 24; comp, 
chap, ii, 8, 12. His forces were arranged under the three great military 
offi- ers who remained faithful to his fortunes — Joab, captain of the host ; 
Abishai, captain of “ the mighty men ; ” and Ittai, who seems to have taken 
the place of Benaiah as captain of the guard. 2 Sami xviii, 2. On Absa- 
lom’s side was David’s nephew, Amasa. 2 Sam. xvii, 25. The final battle 
was fought in the “forest of Ephraim,” which terminated in the accident 
leading to the death of Absalom. 2 Sam. xviii. The return was marked at 
every stage by rejoicing and amnesty. 2 Sam. xix, 16-40 ; 1 Kings ii, 7. 
Judah was first reconciled. The embers of the insurrection still smolder- 
ing (2 Sam. xix, 4L-43) in David’s hereditary enemies of the tribe of Benja- 
min were trampled out by the mixture of boldness and sagacity in Joab, 
now, after the murder of Amasa, once more in his old positiou, (2 Sam. xx,) 
and David again reigned in peace at Jerusalem, (i) Three days' pestilence. 
This great calamity visited Jerusalem at the warning of the prophet Gad. 
The occasion which led to this warning was the census of the people takeu 
by Joab at the king’s orders. 2 Sam. xxiv, 1-9 ; 1 Cliron. xxi> 1-7 ; xxvii, 
23, 24. Joab’s repugnance to the measure was such that he refused alto- 
gether to number Levi and Benjamin. 1 Chron. xxi, 6. The king also scru- 
pled to number those who were under twenty years of age, (1 Chron. 
xxvii, 23,) and the final result was never recorded in the “ Chronicles of 
King David.” 1 Chron. xxvii, 24. Outside the walls of Jerusalem, Araunah, 
or Oman, a wealthy Jebusite, perhaps even the ancient -king of Jebus, 
(2 Sam. xxiv, 23,) possessed a threshing-floor. 1 Chron. xxi, 20. At this 
spot an awful vision appeared, such as is described in the later days of 
Jerusalem, of the angel of the Lord stretching out a drawn sword between 
earth and sky over the devoted city. The scene of such an apparition at 
such a moment was at once marked out for a sanctuary. David demanded, 
and Araunah willingly granted, the site; the altar was erected on the rock 
of the threshing-floor; the place was called by the name of “Moriah,” 
(2 Chron. iii, 1 ;) and for the first time a holy place, sanctified by the vision 
of the divine Presence, was recognized in Jerusalem. It was this spot that 
afterward became the altar of the temple, and therefore the center of the 
national worship. (A;) Adonijah's conspiracy. Adonijah, one of David’s elder 
sons, feared that the influence of Bathsheba might gain the kingdom for 
her own son, Solomon, and declared himself to be the successor to his father. 
( l ) Solomon made king. The plot was stifled, and Solomon’s inauguration 
took place under his father’s auspices. 1 Kings i, 1-53. B. C. 1015. By 
this time David’s infirmities had grown upon him. The warmth of his ex- 
hausted frame was attempted to be restored by the introduction of the young 
Shunammite, Abishag. 1 Kings i, 1; ii. 17. His last song is preserved — a 
striking union of the ideal of a just ruler which he had placed before him, 
and of the difficulties which he had felt in realizing it. 2 Sam. xxiii, 1-7. 
His last words, as recorded, to his successor, are general exhortations to his 
duty, combined with warnings against Joab and Shimei, and charges to re- 
member the children of Barzillai. 1 Kings ii, 1-9. (m) Death. He died at 
the age of seventy, (2 Sam. v, 4,) and “ was buried in the city of David.” 
1 Kings ii, 10. B. C.. 1015. After the return from the captivity, “the 
sepulchers of David ” were still pointed out “ between Shiloh and the house 
of the mighty men,” or “the guard-house.” Neh. iii, 16. His tomb, which 
became the general sepulcher of the kings of Judah, was pointed out in the 


120 


DAVID. 


latest times of the Jewish people. The edifice shown as such from the 
Crusades to the present day is on the southern hill of modern Jerusalem* 
commonly called Mount Zion, under the so-called w Coenaeulum,” but it 
cannot be identified with the tomb of David, which was emphatically within 
the walls. (Smith.) 

4. Character. “ If we proceed to put together, in its most general feat- 
ures, the whole picture of David which results from all these historical tes- 
timonies, we find the very foundations of his character to be laid in a pecul- 
iarly firm and unshaken trust in Jehovah, and the brightest and most spir- 
itual views of the creation and government of the world ; together with a 



TRADITIONAL TOMB OP DAVID. 

constant, tender, and sensitive awe of the Holy One in Israel, a simple, pure 
striving never to be untrue to him, and the strongest efforts to return to 
him all the more loyally after errors and transgressions. . . . His mouth 
continually overflows with heartfelt praise of Jehovah, and his actions are 
ever redolent of the nobility inspired by a real and living fear of him, (for 
the errors by which he is carried away stand out prominently just because 
of their rarity.) ... In the clear daylight of Israel’s ancient history, David 
furnishes the most brilliant example of the noble elevation of character 
produced by the old religion.” — Ewald, History of Israel , vol. iii, pp. 57, 58. 




DAVID, 


121 




DAVID’S FAMILY. 

I. WIVES OF THE WANDERINGS. 

(1 Sam. xxvii, 3 ; 1 Chron. iii, 1.) 

Abinoam of Jezreel. Abigail of Carmel. 

Amnon. Chileab or Daniel, 

(2 Sam. iii, 3.) 


II. WIVES AT HEBRON. 

(2 Sam. iii, 2-5 ; I Chron. iii, 1-4.) 
Maachah of Geshur. Haggith. Abital. 

I 1 , I I 

Absalom. Tamar. Adonijah. Shephatiah, 


Eglah. 

Ithream. 


Michal, 

(2 Sam. iii, 13.) 


3 sons who died, 
(2 Sam. xiv, 27 ; 
xviii, 18.) 


Tamar, (or Maachah,) to Rehoboam. 


(2 Sam. xiv, 27. 
Jos., Ant., vii, 8, 5.) 


(2 Chr. xi, 20.) 


Abijam, 


N. B. — There were, besides, 10 concubines (2 Sam. v, 13 ; xv, 16) whose children (1 Chron. iii, 9) are 
not named. 

III. WIVES AT JERUSALEM. — (Names not given.) 

(2 Sam. v, 13-16 ; 1 Chron. iii, 5-8 ; xiv, 4-7. 


I I II 

Ibhar. Elishua, Eliphelet. Nogah. 

Elishama, (1 Chron. 

(1 Chron. iii, 6.) iii, 3.) 


Nepheg. Japhia. Elish- Eliada, Eliphelet. Jerimoth, 
ama. Beeliada, (2 Chron. 

(1 Chron. xi, 18.) 

*iv,7.) I 


1. Bath-sheba. (1 Chron. iii, 5.) 
Bath-shua. 


Mahalath to Rehoboam. 


One died 
as a child, 

(2 Sam. xii, 15.) 


Shammnah, 

Shimea, 

(1 Chron. iii, 5.) 


Shobab, 


I 

Nathan. 


Jedidiah, 

or 

Solomon. 

I 


Mahalath to Rehoboam to Tamar or Maachah, 
| (1 Kings xv, 2.) 

Abijam. 


Note. — Perhaps the best way to understand the family of David will be 
to study the above register, in which are given bis wives, children, and 
grandchildren, so far as known. The royal line was carried on through a 
union of the children of Solomon and Absalom. 1 Kings xv, 2. 

Difficulties. — 1 Sam. xiii, 14. “ How,” ask some, “ could a man after God’s 

own heart have murdered Uriah, and seduced Bathsheba, and tortured the Am- 
monites ? ” An extract from one who is not a too-indulgent critic of sacred char- 
acters expresses at once the common sense and the religious lesson of the whole 
matter. “ David, the Hebrew king, had fallen into sins enough— blackest crimes 
— there was no want of sin. And, therefore, the unbelievers sneer, and ask, ‘ Is 
this your man according to God’s heart? ’ The sneer, I must say, seems to me 
hut a shallow one. What are faults, what are the outward details of a life, if the 
inner secret of it, the remorse, temptations, the often-baffled, never-ended strug- 
gle of it, be forgotten ? A 11 earnest souls will ever discern in it(David’s life) the faith- 
ful struggle of an earnest human soul toward what is good and best. Struggle often 
baffled — sore baffled— driven as into entire wreck, yet a struggle never ended, ever 
with tears, repentance, true unconquerable purpose, begun anew.”— Carlyle’s He- 
roes and Hero-worship, p. 72. Smith. 1 Sam. xvi, 18 ; xvii, 42, 56. Thereseemsa 
contradiction between these two passages, the one representing David as ” a mighty 
valiant man, and a man of war,” the others as “ a youth, a stripling.” The first de- 
cription of David “ does not presuppose that he had already fought bravely in war, 



122 


DEBIR — DEBORAH. 


but may be perfectly explained from what David himself afterward affirmed respect- 
ing his conflicts with lions and bears. Chap, xvii, 34, 35. The courage and strength 
which he then displayed furnished sufficient proofs of heroism for any one to dis- 
cern in him the future warrior.” — Keil, Commentary. 1 Sam. xvii, 55, sq. How 
can we reconcile Saul and Abner’s ignorance of David, who had been musician 
and armor-bearer to Saul ? Chap, xvi, 14, sq. Keil and Delitzsc.h ( Commentary ) 
explain as follows : “ The question put by Saul does not presuppose an actual want 
of acquaintance with the person of David and the name of his father, but only 
ignorance of the social condition of David’s family, with which both Abner and 
Saul may hitherto have failed to make themselves more fully acquainted.” Some 
explain by saying that after David played before Saul he returned to his home, 
(which appeal’s to be the fact, chap, xviii, 2,) and that his appearance had so 
changed as to make recognition impossible. (Thomson, Land and Booh , ii, 
3G6, American ed.) 1 Sam. xxii,1. The locality of the cave of Adu 11am has not been 
absolutely ascertained. Keil places it near the town Adullam , in the lowlands of 
Judah ; but Ewald, Stanley, and Thomson adhere to the tradition that it is iden- 
tical with the present Wady Khureitum, south of Bethlehem. 2 Sam. v, 3. The 
three anointings of David need give no trouble. The first (1 Sam. xvi, 13) was a 
private, prophetic anointing; by the second (2 Sam. ii, 4) he was publicly recog- 
nized as king over Judah ; by the third, (2 Sam. v, 3,) as king over both Judah and 
Israel. 2 Sam. v, 6, 9. Some see a discrepancy between the fact of the capture 
of “the stronghold of Zion ” and the taking of Goliath’s head to Jerusalem. 1 Sam. 
xvii, 54. Ewald {History of Israel , iii, 72) answers, that clearly David did not 
carry the head to Jerusalem till afterward, when he was king. Keil ( Commenta- 
ry ', 1 Sam. xvii, 54) explains that the assertion made by some, that Jerusalem was 
not yet in possession of the Israelites, rests upon a confusion between the citadel 
of Jehus upon Zion, which was still in the hands of the Jebusites, and the city of 
Jerusalem, in which Israelites had dwelt for a long time. Josh, xv, 63 ; Judges 
i, 8. 2 Sam. vi, 20. The proud daughter of Saul was offended at the fact that the 
king had on this occasion let himself down to the level of the people. She taunts 
him with having stripped himself, because while dancing and playing he wore 
somewhat lighter garments (such as the ordinary priestly garb) instead of the 
heavy royal mantle.— (Ewald, History of Israel , iii, p. 127.) 2 Sam. xxiv, 1, tells 
us that God moved David against Israel to say, “ Go, number Israel and Judah.” 
In 1 Chron. xxi, 1, it is alleged that Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked 
David to number the people. But the meaning is that God permitted Satan thus 
to move David, in order that through his act an opportunity might arise for the 
punishment of Israel’s sin. The command of David was not sinful in itself, but 
became so from the spirit of pride and vainglory out of which it originated, and 
which was shared with him by the people over whom he ruled. (Taylor, David, 
p. 371.) 

DE'BIR, (Heb. Debir* n, a sanctuary,) the king of Eglon, in the low 

• • 

country of Judah ; one of the live Canaanitish princes who joined the con- 
federacy of Adonizedek, of Jerusalem, and who were defeated, confined in 
a cave, and at length hanged by Joshua. Josh, x, 3-23. B. C. 1451. 

DEB'ORAH, (Heb. mlJH, a bee.) 

1. The nurse of Rebekah, (Gen. xxxv, 8,) whom she accompanied from 
the house of Bethuel. Gen. xxiv, 59. She is only mentioned by name on 
the occasion of her burial under the oak-tree of Bethel, named in her honor 
Allon-Bachuth, (oak of weeping.) Geri. xxxv, 8. B. C. about 1732. 

2. A prophetess, “ the wife of Lapidoth,” who judged Israel (Judg. iv, 4) in 
connection witli Barak. B. C. about 1316. (1) Israel under Jabin. After the 
death of Ehud the children of Israel fell away from the Lord, and were given 
into the hands of “ Jabin, king of the Canaanites, who reigned in Hazor.” He 
oppressed them severely for twenty years. B. C. 1316-1296. (2) Delivered 
by Deborah. At this time Deborah, “ the prophetess,” dwelt under a palm- 
tree (which bore her name) between Ramali and Bethel, in Mount Ephraim, 
and hither the people came to her for judgment. She sent an inspired mes- 
sage to Barak, (q. v.,) bidding him assemble 10,000 men of Naphtali and 


DEDAN — DELAIAH. 


123 


Zebnlun at Mount Tabor, for Jehovah would draw Sisera (Jabin’s general) 
and his host to meet him at the river Kislion, and deliver them into liis 
hand. Barak consented only on the condition that Deborah would accom- 
pany him. Deborah consented, but assured him that the prize of victory, 
namely, the defeat of the hostile general, should be taken out of his hand, 
for Jehovah would sell Sisera into the hand of a woman, (Jael.) “And 
the Lord discomfited Sisera, and all his chariots, and all his army, with the 
edge of the sword before Barak.” Sisera, taking refuge in the tent of He- 
ber the Kenite, was slain by liis wife, Jael. This success was followed up 
until Jabin was overthrown, and the land had rest forty years. B. C. 
1296-1256. The victory was celebrated by “The Song of Deborah and 
Barak,” usually regarded as the composition of Deborah. Judg. v. 

DE'DAN, (Heb. Dedan', meaning doubtful.) 

1. A son of Eaamah, son of Cush. Gen. x, 7 ; 1 Chron. i, 9. B. C. prob- 
ably about 2200. 

2. A son of Jokshan, son ofKeturah. Gen. xxv, 3; 1 Chron. i, 32. The 
usual opinion respecting these founders of tribes is that they first settled 
among the sons of Cush, wherever these latter may be placed ; the second, 
on the Syrian borders, about the territory of Edom. But Gesenius and 
"Winer have suggested that the name may apply to one tribe ; and this may 
be adopted as probable on the supposition that the descendants of the Ke- 
turahite Dedan intermarried with those of the Cushite Dedan, whom the 
writer places, presumptively, on the borders of the Persian Gulf. The the- 
ory of this mixed descent gains weight from the fact that in each case the 
brother of Dedan is named Sheba. The passages in the Bible in which 
Dedan is mentioned (besides the genealogies above referred to) are con- 
tained in the prophecies of Isaiah, (chap, xxi, 13.) Jeremiah, (chap, xxv, 23 ; 
xlix, 8,) and Ezekiel, (chap, xxv, 13; xxvii, 15, 20; xxxviii, 13.) and are in 
every case obscure. The probable inferences from these mentions of Dedan 
are — (1) That Dedan, son of Raamah, settled on the shores of the Persian 
Gulf, and his descendants became caravan- merchants between that coast 
and Palestine. (2) That Jokshan, or a son of Jokshan, by intermarriage 
with the Cushite Dedan, formed a tribe of the same name, which appears to 
have had its chief settlement in the borders of Idumea, and perhaps to have 
led a pastoral life. A native indication of the name is presumed to exist in 
the island of Dadan , on the borders of the gulf. (Smith.) 

DE'KAR, (Heb. De'ker , ")£H, a thrusting through,) the father of Solo- 
mon’s purveyor in the second royal district, lying in the western part of the 
hill-country of Judah and Benjamin, Shaalbim and Bethshemesh. 1 Kings 
iv, 9. B. C. 1014. 

DELAIAH, (Heb. Delay ah', freed by Jehovah) 

1. One of the sons of Elioenai, a descendant of the royal line from Ze-ub- 
babel. 1 Chron. iii, 24, where the name is Anglicized Dalaiah. He proba- 
bly belongs to the tenth generation before Christ. See Strong’s Harmony 
and Exposition of the Gospels , p. 17. B. C. about 300. 

2. The head of the twenty-third division of the priestly order in the ar- 
rangement by David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 18. B. C. 1015. 

3. “ Children of Delaiah ” were among those that returned with Zerub- 


124 


DELILAH — DIBRI. 


babel from certain parts of the Assyrian dominions, but who had lost th<5 
genealogical records. Ezra ii, 60 ; Neh. vii, 62. B. C. 636. 

4. The son of Mehetabeel, and father of the Shemaiah who advised Ne- 
hemiah to escape into the temple from the threats of Sanballat. Neb. vi, 10. 
B. G. 445. 

5. A son of Shemaiah, and one of the princes to whom Jeremiah’s first 
roll of prophecy was read, (Jer. xxxvi, 12 ;) he afterward vainly interceded 
with the king (Jehoiakim) to spare the roll from the flames. Yer. 25. B. C. 
606. 

DEL'ILAH, (Heb. Delilah ', n^l, languishing , lustful) a courtesan who 

t • t 

dwelt in the valley of Sorek, beloved by Samson. Judg. xvi, 4-18. B. C. 
about 1120. Samson was inveigled by her into revealing the secret of his 
strength, and the means by which he might be overcome. To this she was 
bribed by the lords of the Philistines, who gave her the large sum of 1,100 
pieces of silver for her services. She was probably a Philistine, and one 
who used her personal charms for political ends. 

DE'MAS, (Gr. A rjfid^) a companion of St. Paul (called by him his fel- 
low-laborer in Pliilem. 24 ; see also Col. iv, 14) during his first imprison- 
ment at Rome. At a later period (2 Tim. iv, 10) we find him mentioned as 
having deserted the apostle through love of this present world, aud gone 
to Thessalonica. A. D. 66. 

DEME'TRIUS, (Gr. A vwrgioc.) 

1. A silversmith of Ephesus, who made “ silver shrines for Diana,” (Acts 
xix, 24,) that is, probably, silver models of the temple or of its chapel, in 
which, perhaps, a little image of the goddess was placed. These, it seems, 
were purchased by foreigners, who either could not perform their devotions 
at the temple itself, or who, after having done so, carried them away as me- 
morials or for purposes of worship. Demetrius, becoming alarmed at the 
progress of the Gospel under the preaching of Paul, assembled his fellow- 
craftsmen, and excited a tumult by haranguing them on the danger that 
threatened the worship of Diana, and, consequently, the profits of their 
craft. The tumult was quieted by the tact and boldness of the town-clerk, 
and Paul departed for Macedonia. A. D. 59. 

2. A Christian, mentioned with commendation in 3 John xii. A. D. about 
90. Further than this nothing is known of him. 

DEU'EL, (Heb. DeiieV, acquaintance with , or invocation of God) 

father of Eliasaph, the “ captain ” of the tribe of Gad at the time of the 
numbering of the people at Sinai. Num. i, 14; vii, 42, 47 ; x, 20. B. C. 
1490. The same man is mentioned again in chap, ii, 14, but here the name 
appears as Reuel , owing to an interchange of the two very similar Hebrew 
letters, T and 1. 

DIB'LAIM, (Heb. Dibla'yim , cakes , [of dried figs ?]) the name of 

the father of Gomer, the wife of Hosea. Hosea i, 3. B. C. about 185. 

DIB'RX, (Heb. Dibri ', perhaps eloquent ,) a Danite, father of Shelo- 

mith, whose son was stoned to death, by command of Moses, for blasphem- 
ing the name of the Lord. Lev. xxiv, 11. B. C. 1490. 


D1DYMUS— DODAI. 125 

DID'YMUS, (Gr. A idv/iog, twin,) a surname (John xi, 16) of the apostle 
Thomas, (q. v.) 

DIK'LAH, (Heb. Diklah', n^p^T, perhaps a palm-tree ,) the name of a son 

of Joktan. Gen. x, 27. His descendants probably settled in Yemen, and 
occupied a portion of it a little to the east of the Hejaz. (Kitto.) 

DI'NAH, (Heb. Dinah', judged, that is, vindicated,) the daughter 

of Jacob by Leah, (Gen. xxx, 21,) and full sister of Simeon and Levi. B. C. 
about 1745. While Jacob dwelt in Shechem, Dinah was seduced by Shechem, 
the son of Hamor, the chief of the country. She was probably, at this 
time, about thirteen or fifteen years of age, the ordinary period of marriage 
in the East. Shechem proposed to make the usual reparation by paying a 
sum to the father and marrying her. Jacob declined to negotiate until he 
had made known the facts to his sons, and advised with them. Hamor pro- 
posed a fusion of the two peoples by the establishment of intermarriage and 
commerce. The sons, bent upon revenge, demanded, as a condition of the 
proposed union, the circumcision of the Shechemites. They assented, and 
on the third day, when the people were disabled, Simeon and Levi slew them 
all, and took away their sister. Gen. xxxiv. Dinah, probably, continued 
unmarried, and went with her father into Egypt. Chap, xlvi, 15. 

DIONYS'IUS, the Areopagite, (Acts xvii, 19-34,) an eminent Athe- 
nian, converted to Christianity by the preaching of Paul on Mars’ Hill. 

A. D. 54. Nothing further is related of him in the New Testament, but 
Suidas recounts that he was an Athenian by birth, and eminent for his liter- 
ary attainments; that he studied first at Athens, and afterward at Heliop- 
olis, in Egypt. The name of Dionysius has become important in Church his- 
tory from certain writings formerly believed to be his, but now known to 
be spurious, and designated as the Pseudo-Dionysian writings. (M’Clintock 
and Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v.) 

DIOT'REPHES, (Gr. A loTpetyf/c, Jove-nourished.) a person condemned 
by the apostle John in tiis third epistle. A. D. after 90. Desiring pre emi- 
nence, he refused to receive the letter sent by John, thereby declining to 
submit to his directions or acknowledge his authority. He circulated 
malicious slanders against the apostle, and exercised an arbitrary and per- 
nicious inliuence in the Church. 3 John 9, 10. 

DP SHAN, (Heb. another form of Dishon, antelope,) the name of the 

youngest son of Seir, the Horite, father of Uz and Aran, and head of one 
of the original tribes of Idumea. Gen. xxxvi, 21, 28, 30; 1 Cliron. i, 38, 42. 

B. C. about 1840. 

DFSHON, (Heb. Dishon antelope ,) the name of two descendants 
of Seir, the Horite. 

1. Seir’s fifth son, and head of one of the original Idumean tribes. Gen. 
xxxvi, 21, 30; 1 Chron. i, 38. B. C. about 1840. 

2. Seir’s grandson, the only son of Anah, and brother of Aholibamah, 
Esau’s second wife. Gen. xxxvi, 25 ; 1 Chron. i, 41. B. C. after 1840. 

DO'DAI, (Heb. Doday 'Hn, probably another form for Dodo,) an Aho- 

liite, who commanded the contingent for the second month under David. 
1 Chron. xxvii, 4. Probably the same as Dodo, (q. v.) 


126 


DODAVAH — EBAL. 


DO'DAVAH, (Heb. Dodava'hu, flirPI, beloved of Jehovah ,) a man of 

Mareshah, in Judah, and father of the Eliezer who predicted the wreck of 
Jelioshaphat’s fleet auxiliary to Ahaziah. 2 Chron. xx, 37. B. C. 896. 

DO'DO, (Heb. Dodo', ilfa, amatory.) 

1. A descendant of Issachar, father of Puah, and grandfather of the 
judge Tola. Judg. x, 1. B. C. about 1250. 

2. An Ahohite, father of Eleazar, one of David’s three mighty men. 
2 Sam. xxiii, 9 ; 1 Chron. xi, 12. B. C. before 1018. He seems to be the 
same with the Dodai mentioned in 1 Chron. xxvii, 4, as commander of the 
second division of the royal troops under David. 

3. A Bethlehemite, and father of Elhanan, one of David’s thirty heroes. 
2 Sam. xxiii, 24 ; 1 Chron. xi, 26. B. C. 1047. 

DO'EG, (Heb. Doeg JNH, fearful ,) an Edomite, and chief of Saul’s 

herdsmen, (“keeper of the king’s mules.” Josephus, Ant, vi. 12, 1.) lie 
was at Nob when Ahimelech gave David assistance by furnishing him with 
the sword of Goliath and the show-bread. 1 Sam. xxi, 7. Of this he in- 
formed the king, and, when others refused to obey his command, slew 
Ahimelech and his priests to the number of eighty-five persons. 1 Sam. 
xxii, 9-19. B. C. about 1062. This “act called forth one of David’s most 
severe imprecative prayers, (Psa. lii,) of which divine and human justice 
seem alike to have required the fulfillment.” 

DOR'CAS, (Gr. A opKdg, a female antelope ,) a charitable and pious Chris- 
tian woman of Joppa, whom Peter restored to life. Acts ix, 36-41. A. D. 
38. The sacred writer mentions her as “ a certain disciple named Tabitha, 
which by interpretation is called Dorcas,” the reason of which probably is 
that she was a Hellenistic Jewess, and was called Dorcas by the Greeks, 
while to the Jews she was known by the name of Tabitha, (q. v.) (M’Clin- 
tock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

DRUSXI/LA, (Gr. ApovcuMa,) youngest daughter of Herod Agrippa I. 
by his wife Cypros, and sister of Herod II., was only six years old when 
her father died in A. D. 44. (Josephus, Ant, xix, 9, 1 ; xx, 7, 1, 2.) She 
was early promised in marriage to Epiphanes, son of Antiochus, but the 
match was broken off in consequence of his refusing to perform his promise 
of conforming to the Jewish religion. She was married to Azizus, king of 
Edessa, but afterward was induced by Felix, procurator of Judea, to leave 
Azizus, and become his wife. In Acts xxiv, 24, she is mentioned in such a 
manner that she may be naturally supposed to have been present when 
Paul preached before Felix in A. D. 60. 

DU'MAH, (Heb. Dumah ', silence ,) a son of Ishmael, most prob- 

ably the founder of an Ishmaelite tribe of Arabia, and so giving name to 
the principal place or district inhabited by that tribe. Gen. xxv, 14 ; 1 Chron. 
i, 30; Isa. xxi, 11. 

E'BAL, (Heb. Eybal ' , stone.) 

1. A various reading (1 Chron. i, 22) for Obal, (q. v.) 

2. One of the sons of Shobal, son of Seir, the Horite, of Idumea. Gen. 
xxxvi, 23; 1 Chron. i, 40. B. C. about 1800. 


EBED— EGLAH. 


127 


E'BED, (Heb. the same, servant.) 

1. The father of Gaal, (q. v.,) who headed the insurrection at Sliechem 
against Abimelech. Judg. ix, 26-35. B. C. about 1206. 

2. Son of Jonathan, and head of the descendants of Adin who returned 
(to the number of fifty males) from the captivity. Ezra viii, 6. B. C. about 
457. 

E'BED-ME'LECH, (Heb. E'bed-Me'lek, servant of the king ,) 

probably an official title equal to king's skive , that is, minister ,) an Ethiopian 
at the court of Zedekiah, king of Judah, who was instrumental in saving 
the prophet Jeremiah from the dungeon and famine. Jer. xxxviii, 7-13. 
For his humanity he was promised deliverance when the city should fall 
into the enemy’s hands. Jer. xxxix, 15-18. B. C. 589. He is there styled 
a eunuch, and he probably had charge of the king’s harem, an office which 
would give him free private access to the king. 

E'BER, (Heb. same, “Oy, country beyond.) 

1. The son of Salah and father of Peleg, being the third postdiluvian 
patriarch after Sliem. Gen. x, 24 ; xi, 14 ; 1 Chron. i, 28, 25. B. C. after 
2218. He is claimed as the founder of the Hebrew race. Gen. x, 21 ; Hum. 
xxiv, 24. In Luke iii, 35, his name is Anglicized Heber. 

2. The oldest of the three sons of Elpaal, the Benjamite, and one of those 
who rebuilt Ono and Lod, with their suburbs. 1 Chron. viii, 12. B. C. 535. 

3. The head of the priestly family of Amok, in the time of the return from 
exile uuder Zerubbabel. Neh. xii, 20. B. C. 535. 

EBI'ASAPH, (Heb. Ebyasaph', gatherer ,) the son of Elkanah 

and father of Assir, in the genealogy of the Kohathite Levites. 1 Chron. 
vi, 23. In ver. 37 he is called a son of Korali, from a comparison of which 
circumstance with Exod. vi, 24, most interpreters have identified him with 
Abiasaph (q. v.) of the latter passage ; but (unless we there understand, 
not three sons of Korah to be meant, but only three in regular desceut) the 
pedigrees of the two cannot be made to tally without violence. From 
1 Chron. ix, 19, it appears he had a son named Kore. In 1 Chron. xxvi, 1, 
his name is abbreviated to Asaph. 

E'DEN, (Heb. same, py, delight ,) son of Joah, and one of the Gershon- 

ite Levites who assisted in the reformation of public worship under Heze- 
kiah. 2 Chron. xxix, 12. B. C. 726. He is probably the same Levite 
appointed by Hezekiah as one of those who were to superintend the distri- 
bution of the free-will offerings. 2 Chron. xxxi, 15. 

E'DER, (Heb. same, *ny, a flock ,) the second of the three “ sons ” (de- 
scendants) of Muslii appointed to Levitical offices in the time of David. 
1 Chron. xxiii, 23 ; xxiv, 30. B. C. 1015. 

E'DOM, (Heb. Edom', DHK, red,) the name given to Esau (q. v.) after 
he bartered his birthright for a mess of red pottage. Gen. xxv, 30. 

EG'LAH, (Heb. Eglah', nf>$, heifer ,) one of David’s wives during his 

reign in Hebron, and the mother of his son Ithream. 2 Sam. iii, 5 ; 1 Chron. 
iii, 3. B. C. about 1053. The clause appended to Eglah’s name, namely, 


128 


EGLON— EHUD. 


“ David’s wife,” is not added to show that Eglah was David’s principal wife, 
which would necessitate the conclusion drawn by the rabbins that Michal 
was the wife intended. (Keil, Commentary.) 

EG'LON, (Heb. Eglon ', place of heifers ,) a Moabite king who waged 

war against Israel. 

Personal History. (1) Subdues the Israelites. When Israel forsook 
the Lord again, the Lord strengthened Eglon against them. He allied him- 
self with the Ammonites and the Amalekites, invaded the land, and took “ the 
city of palm-trees,” that is, Jericho. B. C. about 1354. Sixty years had passed 
since Jericho had been destroj^ed by Joshua. During that time the Israelites 
had rebuilt the ruined city, but they had not fortified it, on account of the 
curse pronounced by Joshua upon any one who should restore it as a for- 
tress; so that the Moabites could easily conquer it, and, using it as a base, 
reduce the Israelites to servitude. (Keil.) Here Eglon built a palace, (Jo- 
sephus, Ant., v, 4, 1, sq.,) which he occupied, at least, in the summer monihs. 
Judg. iii. 20. (2) His Death. After the Israelites had served him eighteen 

3 r ears the Lord raised up a deliverer in the person of Ehud, (q. v.,) a Ben- 
jamite. He was deputed to carry a present to the king, and, after he had 
done so, retired with his attendants. Returning to the king, whom he 
found 'in his summer parlor, he informed him that he had a secret message 
from God. Eglon dismissed his attendants and rose to receive the divine 
ttiessage with reverence, when Ehud plunged a dagger into the body of the 
king, whose obesity was such that the weapon was buried to the handle, 
and Ehud c ould not draw it out again. Ehud locked the door of the room, 
went out through the porch, and escaped to Seirath, in Mount Ephraim. 
Through delicacy the servants waited for a long time before they opened 
the door, when they found Eglon dead upon the floor. Judg. iii, 12-26. 

E'HI, (Heb. Echi apparently a modified form of Ahi, my tyrother.') 

one of the “sons” of Benjamin. Gen. xlvi, 21. He is probably the grand- 
son called Ahiram (q. v.) in Num. xxvi. 38. In the parallel passage 
(1 Chron. viii, 6) he seems to be called Ehud, (q. v) 

EHUD, (Heb. Ehud ', *nnN, union.) 

1. A descendant of Benjamin, progenitor of one of the clans of Geba that 
removed to Man hath. 1 Chron. vie, 6. He seems to be the same as Ahi- 
ram , (Num. xxvi, 38,) and, if so, Ahiram is probably the right name, as the 
family were called Ahiramites. In 1 Chron. viii, 1, the same person seems 
to be called Aharah , and perhaps also Aho»h. in ver. 4 ; Ahiah, ver. 7 ; and 
Aher , 1 Chron. vii, 12. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.') 

2. The third-named of the seven sons of Bilhan, the son of Jediael, and 
grandson of the patriarch Jacob. 1 Cnron. vii, 10. B. C. before 1444. 

3. A judge of Israel. 

1. Family. The son (descendant) of Gera, a Benjamite. The name 
Gera was hereditary among the Benjamites. Gen. xlvi, 21; 2 Sam. xvi, 5; 
1 Chron. viii, 3, 5. 

2. Personal History. Ehud was the second judge of Israel, or rather 
of that part of Israel which he delivered from the Moabites. (1) Israel 
under Moab. Israel having lapsed into idolatry, the Lord strengthened 
Eglon, the king of Moab, against them. With the assistance of the Am- 
monites and the Amalekites he invaded the land and took Jericho, (Judges 


EKER— ELAH. 


129 


iii, 12, 13,) and held Israel under tribute eighteen years. B. C. 1354-1336. 
(2) Ehud slays Eglon. Deputed by the children of Israel. Ehud brought 
a present (probably tribute) to Eglon. He departed with those who bore 
the gift, but turning again at “ the quarries (margin, graven images ) that 
were by Gilgal,” he presented himself before the king in his summer par- 
lor. He secured the dismissal of the attendants by declaring that lie had 
a “ secret errand” unto Eglon. When they were alone “ Ehud said, I have 
a message from God unto thee,” and the king rose to receive it with rever- 
ence. Immediately Ehud, who was left-handed, drew a dagger from his 
right thigh and plunged it so deeply into his abdomen that the iat closed 
upon the hilt and Ehud could not withdraw it Leaving the room, he locked 
the door and fled by way of the quarries into Seirath. (3) Overcomes 
Moab. Ehud now summoned the Israelites to Seirath, in the mountains of 
Ephraim. First, taking the fords of Jordan, he fell upon the Moabites, de- 
feating them with a loss of 10,000 of their best men. And so the land had 
rest for eighty years. Judg. iii, 15-30. 

Difficulties. — “ The eonduet of Ehud must be Judged according to the spirit of 
those times, when it was thought allowable to adopt any means of destroying the 
enemy of one’s nation. The treacherous assassination of the hostile kins: is not 
to he regarded as an act of the Spirit of God, and, therefore, is not set before us as 
an example.” — Keil, Commentary. Beyond his commission as deliverer of Israel, 
we do not suppose that God gave Ehud any special commands, but left him to the 
choice of such measures and plans of conquest as his own judgment and skill 
might devise. (Steele and Terry, Commentary.) 

E'KER, (Heb. Eker, ‘ipy, a plant rooted up, foreigner , Lev. xxv, 41,) the 

youngest of the three sons of Ram, the grandson of Hezron. 1 Chron. 
ii, 27. B. C. before 1471. 

EL'ADAH, (Heb. Eladdh whom God has put on, that is, fills 

with himself,) one of the sons (rather than later descendants, as the text 
seems to state) of Ephraim, (1 Chron. vii, 20 ;) perhaps the same as Eleai* 
(q. v.) of ver. 21, since several of the names (see Taiiath) in the list appear 
to be repeated. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

E'LAH, (Heb. Elah', terebinth, , or oak.) 

1. One of the Edomitish “dukes,” or chieftains, in Mount Seir. Genesis 
xxxvi, 41 ; 1 Chron. i, 52. B. C. about 1500. 

2. The father of Shimei, one of Solomon’s purveyors. 1 Kings iv, 18. 
B. C. 1014. 

3. The son and successor of Baasha, king of Israel. 1 Kings xvi, 8-10. 
He reigned for only parts of two years, (B. C. 930-929,) and was then killed 
while drunk by Zimri, in the house of his steward, Arza, (in Tirzah.) who 
was, probably, a confederate in the plot. He was the last king of Baasha’s 
line, and by this catastrophe the predictions of the prophet Jehu (1 Kings 
xvi, 1-4) were accomplished. 

4. The father of HosLea, last king of Israel. 2 Kings xv, 30; xvii, 1. 
B. C. before 730. 

5. One of the three sons of Caleb, the son of Jephunneh. 1 Chron. iv, 15. 
B. C. 1491. This passage ends with the words “ even (or and) Kenaz,” 
showing that a name had been dropped out before it. (Keil, Commentary.) 

6. The son of Uzzi, and one of the Benjamite heads of families who were 


130 


ELAM — ELDAD. 


taken into captivity, (1 Chron. ix, 8,) or rather, perhaps, returned from it 
and dwelt in Jerusak m. B. C. 530. 

E'LAM, (Heb. Eylanl', meaning doubtful.) 

1. The first-named of the sons of Shem. Gen. x, 22; 1 Chron. i, 17. 
B. C. before 2250. His descendants probably settled in that part of Persia 
which was afterward frequently called by this name. 

2. A chief man of the tribe of Benjamin, one of the sons of Shashak, 
resident at Jerusalem at the captivity or on the return. 1 Chron. viii, 24. 
B. C. 536. 

3. A Korhite Levite, fifth son of Meshelemiah, who was one of the por- 
ters of the tabernacle in the time of David. 1 Chron. xxvi, 3. B. C. 1015. 

4. The progenitor of a family who returned with Zerubbabel (B. C. 536) 
to the number of 1,254 Ezra ii, 7 ; Neh. vii, 12. A further detachment of 
71 men came with Ezra. Ezra viii, 7. It was, probably, one of this family, 
Shechauiah, son of Jehiel, who encouraged Ezra in his efforts against the 
indiscriminate marriages of the people, (Ezra x, 2,) and six of the “ sons of 
Elam ” accordingly put away their foreign wives. Ezra x, 26. 

5. In the same lists is a second Elam, whose sons, to the same number 
as in the former case, returned with Zerubbabel, (Ezra ii, 31 ; Neb. vii, 34,) 
and which, for the sake of distinction, is called “ the other Elam.” “The 
coincidence of numbers is curious, and also suspicious, as arguing an acci- 
dental repetition of the foregoing name.” — Smith, Dictionary , s. v. 

6 . One of the chiefs of the people who signed the covenant with Nehe- 
miah. Neh. x, 14. B. C. 445. 

7. One of the priests who accompanied Nehemiah, and took part in the 
dedication of the new wall of Jerusalem. Neh. xii, 42. B. C. 445. 

EL'ASAH, (Heb. Ela'sah , whom God made.) 

1. One of the sons of Pashur, a priest, who renounced his Gentile wife, 
whom he had married during the captivity or after. Ezra x, 22. B. C. 457. 

2. The son of Shaphan, one of the two men who were sent on a mission 
by King Zedekiah to Nebuchadnezzar at Babylon. They, at the same time, 
took charge of the letter of Jeremiah the prophet to the captives in Baby- 
lon. Jer. xxix, 3. B. C. about 599. 

EL'DAAH, (Heb. Eldaah ', whom God called ,) the last-named 

of the five sons of Midian, Abraham’s son by Keturah. Gen. xxv, 4; 
1 Chron. i, 33. B. C. after 1853. 

EL'DAD, (Heb. Eldad ', whom God has loved,) one of the seventy 

elders appointed to assist Moses in the administration of justice. B. C. 
1490. These elders were assembled before the door of the tabernacle, and 
received the spirit of prophecy from God. Num. xi, 24, 25. Eldad is men- 
tioned along with Medad, another elder, as having received the same gift, 
although, for some reason, they were not with the other elders, but re- 
mained in the camp. A young man brought word to Moses that these two 
persons were prophesying in the camp, and Joshua intreated Moses to for- 
bid them. But Moses replied, “ Euviest thou for my sake? Would God 
that all the Lord’s people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his 
Spirit upon them 1 ” Num. xi. 27-29. The mode of prophesying, in the case 


ELEAD — ELEAZAR. 


131 


of Eldad and Medad, was probably the extempore production of hymns 
chanted forth to the people. Compare the case of Saul. 1 Sam. x, 11. 
(Smith, Dictionary.) 

E'LEAD, (Heb. Elad whom God has applauded ,) a descendant 

of Ephraim, (1 Chron. vii, 21,) but whether through Shuthelah, (q. v.,) or a 
son of the patriarch, (the second Shuthelah being taken as a repetition of 
the first, and Ezer and Elead as his brothers,) is not determined. (M’Clintock 
and Strong's Cyclopcedia , s. v.) 

ELE'ASAH, (Heb. Elasah', more properly Anglicised Elasah, (q. v.,) 
whom God made.) 

1. The son of Helez, one of the descendants of Judah, of the family of 
Hezron. 1 Chron. ii, 39. 

2. Son of Rapha, or Rephaiah, a descendant of Saul through Jonathan 
and Meri-Baal, or Mephibosheth. 1 Chron. viii, 37 ; ix, 43. B. C. after 
1050. 

ELEA/ZAR, (Heb. Elazar', whom God hath helped,) a common 

name among the Hebrews. 

1. The high-priest. The third son of Aaron by Elisheba, daughter of 

Amminadab. Exod. vi, 23 ; xxviii, 1. He married a daughter of Putiel, who 
bore him Phinehas. Exod. vi, 25. B. C. about 1530. (1) Succeeds to 

Priesthood. After the death of Nadab and Abihu without children, (Lev. 
x, 1 ; Num. iii, 4,) Eleazar was appointed chief over the principal Levites, 
to have the oversight of those who had charge of the sanctuary. Num. iii, 32. 
After the destruction of Korah and his company, Eleazar gathered up their 
censers out of the fire to make plates for a covering of the altar of burnt- 
offering. Num. xvi, 37-39. With his brother Itharnar he ministered as a 
priest during their father’s life-time. (2) As High-Priest. Immediately 
before his father’s death Moses went with them both unto Mount Hor, 
where he invested Eleazar with the sacred garments, as the successor of 
Aaron in the office of high-priest. Num. xx, 25-29. B. C. 1453. One of 
his first duties was, in conjunction with Mosos. to superintend the census 
of the people. Num. xxvi, 1-4. He also assisted at the inauguration of 
Joshua (Num. xxvii, 18-23) and at the division of the spoil taken from the 
Midianites. Num. xxxi, 21. After the conquest of Canaan he took part in 
the division of the land. Josh, xiv, 1. The time of his death is not men- 
tioned in Scripture. Josephus says that it took place about the same time 
as Joshua’s, twenty-five years after the death of Moses. The high-priest- 
liood is iTaid to have remained in the family of Eleazar until the time of Eli, 
into whose family, for some reason unknown, it passed until it was restored 
to the family of Eleazar in the person of Zadok. 1 Sam. ii, 27 ; 1 Chron. 
vi. 8; xxiv, 3; 1 Kings ii, 27. Smith, s. v. 

2. An inhabitant of Kirjath-jearim, who was set apart bv his fellow- 
townsmen to attend upon the ark while it remained in the house of his fa- 
ther, Abinadab, after it had been returned to the Hebrews by the Philis- 
tines. 1 Sam. vii, 1, 2. B. C. about 1140. It is not stated that Eleazar 
was a Levite ; but this is very probable, because otherwise they would 
hardly have consecrated him to be the keeper of the ark, but would have 
chosen a Levite for the purpose. (Keil, Commentary.) 

3. The son of Dodo the Aliohite, that is, possibly, a descendant of Ahoah, 
9 


132 


ELHANAN — ELI. 


of the tribe of Benjamin, (1 Cliron. viii, 4,) one of the three most eminent 
of David’s thirty-seven heroes, who “ fought till liis band was weary” in 
maintaining with David and the other two a daring stand after “ the men 
Of Israel had gone away.” He was also one of the same three when they 
broke through the Philistine host to gratify David’s longing for a drink of 
water from the well of his native Bethlehem. 2 Sam. xxiii, 9, 17 ; 1 Chron. 
xi, 12. B. C. about 1047. 

4. A Levite, son of Mahli, and grandson of Merari. B. C. about 1618. 
He is mentioned as having had only daughters, who were married by their 
“brethren,” (that is, cousins.) 1 Chron. xxiii, 21, 22; xxiv, 28. 

5. The son of Phineas, and associated with the priests and Levi tea in tak- 
ing charge of the sacred treasure and vessels restored to Jerusalem after the 
exile. Ezra viii, 33. B. C. about 457. It is not definitely stated, however, 
whether he was a priest or even a Levite. 

6. One of the descendants of Parosh, an Israelite (that is, layman) who 
renounced the Gentile wife whom he had married on returning from Babylon. 
Ezra x, 25. B. C. 456. 

7. One of those who encompassed the walls of Jerusalem on their com- 
pletion. Neh. xii, 42. B. C. 445. He is probably the same with Ho. 5. 

8. The son of Eliud, in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. Matt, i, 15. 

ELHA'NAN, (Heb. Elchanan whom God has bestowed.) 

1. A distinguished warrior in the time of King David, who performed a 

memorable exploit against the Philistines, though in what that exploit ex- 
actly consisted, and who the hero himself was, it is not easy to determine. 
B. C. about 1020. 2 Sam. xxi, 19, says that he was the “sou of Jaaro 

Oregim, the Bethlehemite,” and that he “ slew Goliath, the Gittite, the staff 
of whose spear was like a weaver’s beam.” Here in the Authorized Version 
the words “ the brother of” are inserted, to bring the passage into agree- 
ment with 1 Chron. xx, 5, which states that “ Elhanan, son of Jair, (or 
Joar,) slew Lahmi, the brother of Goliath, the Gittite, the staff of whose 
spear,” etc. Of these two statements the latter is probably the more cor- 
rect. (Keil, Commentary ; M’Clintoek and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

2. The name Elhanan also occurs as that of “ the son of Dodo,” (2 Sam. 
xxiii, 24; 1 Chron. xi, 26,) where he is given as one of “the thirty of Da- 
vid’s guard.” Perhaps his father had both names. “ This Elhanan is not 
the same as the one mentioned above.” — Keil, Commentary. 

E'LI. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Eli', ascent , summit .) Eli 

was descended from Aaron through Ithamar, (Lev. x, 1, 2, 12.) as ap- 
pears from the fact that Abiathar, who was certainly a lineal descendant 
of Eli, (1 Kings ii, 27,) had a son, Ahimelech, who is expressly stated to 
have been “ of the sons of Ithamar.” 1 Chron. xxiv, 3 ; compare 2 Sam. 
viii, 17. 

2. Personal History. (1) High-Priest. Eli is generally supposed to 
have been the first of the line oflthainar who held the office of high-priest. 
(Josephus, Ant , v, 11, 2.) How the office ever came into the younger 
branch of the house of Aaron we are not informed, but it is very evident 
that it was no unauthorized usurpation on the part of Eli. 1 Sam. ii, 27, 
28, 30. (2) Judge. Eli also acted as judge of Israel, being the immediate 
predecessor of Samuel, (1 Sam. vii, 6, 15-17,) the last of the judges. He 


ELIAB. 


133 


was also the first judge who was of priestly descent, and is said to have 
judged Israel 40 years. 1 Sara, iv, 18.- (3) His Sons. His sons, Hophni and 
Phineas, conducted themselves so outrageously that they excited deep disgust 
among the people, and rendered the services of the temple odious in their 
eyes. 1 Sam. ii, 12-17, 22. Of this misconduct Eli was aware, but con- 
tented himself with mild and ineffectual remonstrances (1 Sam. ii, 23, 24) 
where his station required severe and vigorous action. 1 Sam. iii, 13. 
(4) Prophetic Warnings. A prophet was sent to announce the destruction 
of the house of Eli — as a sign of which both his sons should be slain in one 
day — a faithful priest should be raised up in his place; and those who re- 
mained of Eli’s house should come crouching to him with the prayer to be 
put into one of the priest’s offices to earn a morsel of bread. 1 Sam. ii, 
27-36. Another warning was sent to Eli by the mouth of the youthful 
Samuel. I Sam. iii, 11-18. (5) Death. At last the Israelites rose against 

the Philistines, but were defeated near Eben-Ezer. They then took the ark 
of the covenant into the camp, hoping thereby to secure the help of God ; 
but in a succeeding engagement they suffered a still greater defeat, in which 
Eli’s sons were slain. When tidings were brought to Eli that Israel was 
defeated — that his sons were slain — that the ark of God was taken — “he 
fell from off the seat backward by the side of the gate, and his neck brake, 
and he died; for he was an old man [98 years, ver. J5] and heavy.” 
1 Sam. iv. The final judgment upon Eli’s house was accomplished when 
Solomon removed Abiathar from his office, and restored the line of Eleazar 
in the person of Zadok. 1 Kings ii, 27. 

3. Character. The recorded historv of Eli presents to us the character of 
Eli in three different aspects. (1) The devoted High-Priest. He takes 
particular interest in Hannah, when he understands her sorrows, and be- 
stows upon her his priestly benediction, (1 Sam. i, 17 ; ii, 20 ;) he recog- 
nizes the divine message, and bows in humble submission to the prophecy 
of his downfall, (chap, iii, 8, 18 ;) and shows his profound devotion to God 
by his anxiety for the ark, and his sudden fall and death at the tidings of 
its capture. We can find in him no indication of hypocrisy or lack of faith 
in God. (2) As Judge. The fact that he judged Israel seems to prove that 
his administration was, on the whole, careful and just. But his partiality 
appears when his own sons are the offenders. (3) As Father. Eli let his 
paternal love run away with his judgment; his fondness for his sons re- 
strained him from the exercise of proper parental authority. 

E'IjIAB, (Eleb. Eli'ab, to whom God is father.) 

1. A son of Helon, and the captain of the tribe of Zebulun who assisted 
Moses in numbering the people. Num. i, 9 ; ii, 7 ; x, 16. B. C. 1490. He 
is mentioned (chap, vii, 24-29) as presenting the offering of his tribe at the 
dedication of the tabernacle. 

2. A Reubenite, son of Pallu, (or Phallu,) whose family was one of the 
principal in the tribe, and father or progenitor of Dothan and Abiram, the 
leaders in the revolt against Moses. Num. xvi, 1, 12; xxvi. 8, 9; Deut. 
xi, 6. B. 0. 1471. Eliab had another son, Nemuel. Num. xxvi, 9. 

3. The eldest son of Jesse, brother of David, (1 Chron. ii, 13.) and first of 
the sons of Jesse who was presented to Samuel when he came to Bethle- 
hem to anoint a king. 1 Sam. xvi, 6. B. C. about 1063. Eliab, with his 
two next younger brethren, was in the army of Saul when threatened by 


ELI AD A — ELI AKIM. 


184 

Goliath ; and it was he who made the contemptuous inquiry, with which he 
sought to screen his own cowardice, when David proposed to light the Phil- 
istine, “With whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness?” 
1 Sam. xvii, 28. His daughter Abihail married her second cousin, Reho- 
boam, and bore him three children. 2 Cor. xi, 18, 19. Eliab is supposed to 
be the same with Elihu, “of the brethren of David.” 1 Chron. xxvii, 18. 

4. An ancestor of Samuel the prophet, being a Kohathite Levite, son of 
Nahath, and father of Jeroham. 1 Chron. vi, 27. In the other statemenls 
of the genealogy this name appears to be given as Elihu (1 Sam. i, 1) and 
Eliel. 1 Chron. vi, 34. 

5. A valiant man of the Gadites, who joined David in the stronghold in 
the wilderness. 1 Chron. xii, 9. B. C. about 1058. 

6. A Levite, who was one of the second rank of those appointed to con- 
duct the music of the sanctuary in the time of David, and whose part was 
to play on the psaltery. He also served as “ porter,” ( shoer , that is, a door- 
keeper.) 1 Chron. xv, 18, 20 ; xvi, 5. B. C. about 1042. 

ELI 7 ADA, (Heb. Elyada ', JTp^X, whom God has known.) 

1. One of the younger sons of David, born at Jerusalem, the child (as 
it would seem) of one of his wives, and not of a concubine. 2 Sam. v, 16 ; 
1 Chron. iii, 8, 9. B. C. after 1043. In 1 Chron. xiv, 7, the name appears 
in the form Beeliada, (whom the master has known.) As to the difficulty of 

David’s using a name which contained {Baal) for one of its elements, 
it is at least very doubtful whether that word, which literally means mas- 
ter, husband , had in David’s time acquired the bad sense which Baal worship 
in Israel afterward imparted to it. (Kitto, s. v.) 

2. The father of Regon, who fled from the service of Hadadezer, king of 
Zobali, and became a captain of Syrian marauders, who annoyed Solomon 
during his reign. 1 Kings xi, 23. B. C. about 984. The name is Anglicized 
Eliadah. 

3. A Benjamite, and mighty man of war, who led 200,000 archers of his 
tribe to the army of Jehoshaphat. 2 Chron. xvii, 17. B. C. 912. 

ELI'ADAH, (1 Kings xi, 23,) a less correct mode of Anglicizing the 
name Eliada, (No. 2 supra.) 

ELF AH, (Heb. Eliyah n^X, whose God is Jehovah,) a less correct 

mode of Anglicizing the name Elijah. 

1. One of the “ sons of Jeroham,” and head of a Benjamite family resi- 
dent at Jerusalem. I Chron. viii, 27. 

2. One of the “ sons of Elam,” who divorced his Gentile wife on return- 
ing from the exile. Ezra x, 26. B. C. 456. 

ELI'AHBA, (Heb. Eliyaehba ', XSIT^X, whom God will hide,) a Shaal- 

bonite, one of David’s thirty chief warriors. 2 Samuel xxiii, 32 ; I Chron. 
xi, 33. B. C. 1018. 

ELF AKIM, (Heb. Elyakim', D'p'^X, whom God will lift up.) 

1. Son of Hilkiali, and prefect of the palace under King Hezekiah. 2 Kings 
xviii, 18 ; xix, 2. (1) History. He succeeded Shebna in this office after 

the latter had been ejected from it as a punishment for his pride. Isa. xxii, 
15-20. B. C. 713. He was one of the three persons sent by Hezekiah to 


ELI AM — ELIASHIB. 


185 


receive the message of the invading Assyrians, (2 Kings xviii, 18; Isaiah 
xxxvi, 3, 11, 12,) and afterward to report it to Isaiah. (2) Character. Elia- 
kim was a good man, as appears by the title emphatically applied .to him 
by God, “ My servant Eliakim,” (Isa. xxii, 20,) aud as was shown by his 
conduct on the occasion of Sennacherib’s invasion, (2 Kings xviii ; xix, 1-5,) 
and also in the discharge of the duties of his high station, in which he acted 
as a “father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and to the house of Judah.” 
Isa. xxiii, 21. 

Difficulty.— The office that Eliakim held has been a subject of perplexity to 
commentators. The ancients, including the LXX and Jerome, understood it of 
the priestly office. But it is certain, from the description of the office in Isa. xxii, 
and especially from the expression in ver. 22— The key of the house of David 
will I lay upon his shoulder” — that it was the king’s house, and not the house of 
God, of which Eliakim was made prefect. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v. ; Delitzsch, 
Commentary.) Most commentators agree that Isa. xxii, 25, does not apply to him, 
but to Shebna, Delitzsch, however, says, “ Eliakim himself is also brought down 
at last by the greatness of his power, on account of the nepotism to which he has 
given way.” — Commentary, in loco. 

2. The origiual name of Jehoiakim, (q. v.,) king of Judah. 2 Kings 
xxiii, 34; 2 Chron. xxxvi, 4. 

3. A priest, in the days of Nehemiah, who assisted at the dedication of 
the new wall of Jerusalem. Neh. xii, 41. B. C. 445. 

4. Son of Abiud and father of Azor, of the posterity of Zerubbabel. 
Matt, i, 13. He is probably identical with the Shechaniah (q. v.) of 

1 Chr >n. iii, 21. 

5. The son of Melea and father of Jonan, in the genealogy of Christ, 
(Luke iii, 30 ;) probably the grandson of Nathan, of the private line of Da- 
vid’s descent. (Strong’s Harmony of the Gospels , p. 16.) B. C. considerably 
after 1013. 

E'LIAM, (Heb. Eliam', God is [his] friend.) 

1. The father of Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, and afterward of David. 

2 Sam. xi, 3. In the list of 1 Chron. iii, 5, the names of both father and 
daughter are al’ered, the former to Ammiel and tiie latter to Bathshua. 

2. Son of Ahithophel the Gilonite, one of David’s “thirty” warriors. 
2 Sam. xxiii, 34. B. C. 1046. The name is omitted in the list of 1 Chron. 
xi, but is now probably discernible as “ Ahijah the Pelonite.” The ancient 
Jewish tradition, preserved by Jerome, is that the two Eliams are one and 
the same person. (Smith, Dictionary.) 

ELI' AS, the Grecized form in which the name of Elijah is given in the 
Authorized Version of the Apocrypha and New Testament. 

ELI'ASAPH, (Heb. Elyasaph ', whom God has added.) 

1. The son of Deuel, (or Reuel,) head of the tribe of Gad at the time of 
the census in the wilderness of Sinai. Num. i, 14 ; ii, 14 ; vii, 42, 47 ; x, 20. 
B. C. 1490. 

2. The son of Lael, and chief of the family of Gershonite Levites. Num. 
iii, 24. B. C. 1490. 

ELI'ASHIB, (Heb. ElyashiV, whom God will restore ,) a com- 

mon name of Israelites, especially in the latter period of the Old Testament 
history. 


136 


ELIATHAH — ELTEL. 


1. A son of Elioenai, one of the latest descendants of the royal family 
of Judah. 1 Chron. iii, 24. 

2. A priest in the time of King David, head of the eleventh “course” in the 
order of the “ governors ” of the sanctuary. 1 Chron. xxiv, 12. B. C. 1015. 

3. A Levitical singer who repudiated his Gentile wife after the exile. 
Ezra x, 24. B. C. 556. 

4. An Israelite of the lineage of Zattu, who did the same. Ezra x, 27. 
B. C. 456. 

5. An Israelite of the lineage of Bani, who did the same. Ezra x, 36. 
B. C. 456. 

6. The high-priest of the Jews in the time of Nehemiah. Neh. iii, 1. 
B. C. 445. With the assistance of his fellow-priests he rebuilt the eastern 
city w’all adjoining the temple. Neh. iii, 1. His own mansion was, doubt- 
less, situated in the same vicinity. Chap, iii, 20, 21. Eliashib was related 
in some way to Tobiah the Ammonite, for whom he prepared an ante-room 
in the temple, a desecration which excited the pious indignation of Nehe- 
miah. Chap, xiii, 4, 7. One of the grandsons of Eliaslnb had also married 
the daughter of Sanballat the Horonite. Chap, xiii, 28. There seems to be 
no reason to doubt that the same Eliashib is referred to in Ezra x, 6, as the 
father of Johanan, with whom Ezra consulted concerning the transgression 
of the people in taking Gentile wives. He is evidently the same with the 
son of Joiakim mentioned in the succession of high-priests. Neh. xii, 10, 22. 

ELFATHAH, (Heb. Elia'thah, to whom God will come,) the 

eighth-named of the fourteen sons of the Levite Heman, and musician in 
the temple in the time of David. 1 Chron. xxv, 4. With twelve of his sons 
and brethren he had the twentieth division of the temple service. Chap, 
xxv, 27. B. C. 1915. 

E I, I'D AD, (Heb. Elidad', whom God has loved,) son of Chislon, 

and a chief of the tribe of Benjamin who represented his tribe among the 
commissioners appointed to divide the Promised Land. Numbers xxxiv, 21. 
B. C. 1452. 

E'liIEli, (Heb. ElieV, to whom God is strength.) 

1. One of the heads of the tribe of Manasseh, on the east of Jordan; a 
mighty man. 1 Chron. v. 24. B. 0. about 1300. 

2. the son of Toali and father of Jeroham, ancestors of Heman, the 
singer and Levite, (1 Chron. vi, 34 ;) probably identical with the Eliah of 
ver. 27, and of the Elihu of 1 Sam. i, 1. 

3. One of the descendants of Sliimhi, and head of a Benjamite family in 
Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 20. 

4. One of the descendants of Shashak, and also head of a Benjamite family 
in Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 22. 

5. “ The Mahavite,” and one of David’s distinguished warriors. 1 Chron. 
xi, 46. B. C. 1047. 

6. Another of the same guard, but without any express designation. 
Chap, xi, 47. 

7. One of the Gadite heroes who came across Jordan and joined David 
in his stronghold in the wilderness, (1 Chron. xii, 11 ;) possibly the same 
with No. 5 or 6. B. C. 1058. 


ELIENAI — ELIEZER. 137 


8. One of the eighty Hebronite Levites who assisted David in the re- 
moval of the ark to Jerusalem. 1 Chron. xv, 9, 11. B. C. 1042. 

9. One of the Levites appointed by Hezekiah to have charge of the offer- 
ings and tithes dedicated in the temple. 2 Chron. xxxi, 13. B. C. 726. 

ELIE'NAI, (Heh. Elieyriay\ perhaps contracted from Elioenai, 

toward Jehovah are my eyes,) a descendant of Shimhi, and a chief of one of 
the Benjatnite families resident at Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 20. B. C. 1400. 

ELIE'ZER, (Heb. the same, God is his help.) 

1. “ Eliezer of Damascus,” mentioned in Gen. xv, 2, 3, apparently as a 
house-born domestic and steward of Abraham, and hence likely, in the ab- 
sence of direct issue, to become the patriarch’s heir. B. C. about 1913. 
The common notion is that Eliezer was Abraham’s house-born slave, adopted 
as his heir, and meanwhile his chief servant, and the same who was after- 
ward sent into Mesopotamia to seek a wife for Isaac. “ This last point we 
may dismiss with the remark, that there is not the least evidence that ‘ the 
elder servant of his house’ (Gen. xxiv, 2) was the same with Eliezer.” — 
Kitto 

Difficulties.— Murti difficulty has been found in reconciling the two expres- 
sions, 44 Eliezer of Damascus ” and “ one born in rny house.” Ver. 2,3. The obvious 
meaning is that Eliezer was born in Damascus. But the question arises, How is 
this compatible with the notion of his being Abraham’s house-born slave, seeing 
that Abraham’s household never was at Damascus? The expression, “ the stew- 
ard of mine bouse,” in ver. 2, will explain the sense of “one born in mine house 
is mine heir, ” in ver. 3. The first phrase, literally translated, is “ the son of posses- 
sion of mine house,” that is, one who shall possess my house, my property, after 
my death. It is, therefore, exactly the same as the phrase in the next verse, “ the 
son of my house (paraphrased by 2 3 4 5 one bora in mine house ’) is. my heir.” This 
reraoyes every objection to Eliezer’s being of Damascus, and leaves it more prob- 
able that he was not a servant at all, but a near relative. The supposition that 
Eliezer was a nearer relative than even Lot also removes another difficulty, 
namely, his speaking of him, and not of Lot, as his heir. Some have supposed 
that Lot and Eliezer were, in fact, the same person ; and this would be an excel- 
lent explanation if the Scripture afforded sufficient grounds for it. (Kitto.) 

2. The second of the two sons of Moses and Zipporah, born during the 
exile in Midian, to whom his father gave this name, 44 because.” said he, “ the 
God of my fathers was my help, that delivered me from the sword of Pha- 
raoh." Exod. xviii, 4; 1 Chrou. xxiii, 15. B. C. before 1491. He remained 
with his mother and brother, Gershom, in the care of Jethro, his grand- 
father, when Moses returned to Egypt, (Exod. iv, 18,) having been sent 
back by Moses. Exod. xviii, 2. Jethro brought back Zipporah and her two 
sous to Moses in the wilderness after the Exodus from Egypt. Chap, xviii. 
Eliezer had one son, Rehabiah, from whom sprang a numerous posterity. 
I Chron. xxiii, 17 ; xxvi, 25, 26. Shelomith, in the reigns of Saul and Da- 
vid, (ver. 28,) who had the care of all the treasures of things dedicated to 
God, was descended from Eliezer in the sixth generation if the genealogy 
in I Chron xxvi, 25, is complete. 

3. A son of Becher and grandson of Benjamin. 1 Chron. vii, 8. B. C. 
after 1706. 

4. One of the priests who blew with trumpets before the ark when it 
was brought to Jerusalem. 1 Chron. xv, 24. B. C. 1042. 

5. Son of Zichri, and ruler of the Reubenites in the reign of David. 
1 Chron. xxvii, 16. B. C. about 1015. 


138 


ELIHOENAI — ELIHU. 


6. A prophet (son of Dodavah, of Mareshah) who foretold to Jehoshaphat 
(q. v.) that the fleet which he had fitted out in partnership with Ahaziali 
should be wrecked. 2 Cliron. xx, 37. B. C. 896. 

7. One of the chief of the Jews during the exile, sent by Ezra, with oth- 
ers, from Aliava to Casiphia, to induce some Levites and Netliinim to join 
the party returning to Jerusalem. Ezra viii, 16. B. 0. 457. 

8. 9, 10. A priest, (descendant of Jeshua,) a Levite, and an Israelite, (of 
the lineage of Harim,) who divorced their Gentile wives after the exile. 
Ezra x, 18, 23, 31. B. 0. 456. 

11. Son of Jorim and father of Jose, of the private lineage of David 
prior to Salathiel. Luke iii, 29. B. C. before 588. 

ELIHOE'NAI, (Heb. Elyehoeynay ', toward Jehovah are my 

eyes,) son of Zerahiah, of the “ sons of Pahath-Moab,” who returned with 
200 males from the exile. Ezra viii, 4. B. C. 457. 

ELIHO'REPH, (Heb. Elicho'reph, God is his recompense,) son 

of Shisha, and appointed, with his brother Ahiah, royal scribe by Solomon. 

1 Kings iv, 3. B. C. 1014. 

ELFHU, (Heb. Elihu ', whose God is he.) 

1. The son of Tohu and grandfather of Elkanah, Samuel’s father. 1 Sam. 
i, 1. In the statements of the genealogy of Samuel in 1 Chron. vi, the 
name Ei,iel (q. v.) occurs in the same position— son of Toah and father of 
Jeroham, (chap, vi, 34 ;) and also Eliab , (chap, vi, 27,) father of Jeroham 
and grandson of Zophai. The general opinion is that Elihu is the original 
name, and the two latter forms but copyists’ variations of it. 

2. One of the captains of Manasseh (1 Chron. xii, 20) who followed Da- 
vid to Ziklag on the eve of the battle of Gilboa, and who assisted him 
against the Amalekites. 1 Sam. xxx. B. C. about 1056. 

3. One of the very able-bodied members of the family of Obed-edom, (a 
grandson by Shemaiah,) who were appointed porters of the temple under 
David. 1 Chron. xxvi, 7. B. C. about 1015. Terms are applied to all these 
door-keepers which appear to indicate that they were not only “ strong 
men,” as in the Authorized Version, but also fighting men. (See vers. 6, 7, 
8, 12, in which the Hebrew words for army and warriors, or heroes, occur.) 

4. A chief of the tribe of Judah, said to be “of the brethren of David,” 
(1 Chron. xxvii, 18,) and hence supposed by some to have been his eldest 
brother, Eliab. 1 Sam. xvi, 6. B. C. 1015. 

5. One of Job’s friends. ( 1 ) Family. He is described as “ the son of 

Baraehel, a Buzite, of the kindred of Ram.” Job xxxii, 2. This is usually 
understood to imply that he was descended from Buz, the son of Abraham’s 
brother Nahor. B. C. about 1520. (2) In Debate. Elihu’s name does not ' 

appear among those of the friends who came in the first instance to condole 
with Job, nor is his presence indicated till the debate between the afflicted 
man and his three friends had been brought to a conclusion. It appears, 
from the manner in which Elihu introduces himself, (Job xxxii, 3-7,) that he 
was much the youngest of the party. It is probable that the debate be- 
tween Job and his friends was carried on in the presence of a deeply-inter- 
ested auditory, among which was Elihu, who could not forbear from inter- 
fering when the controversy appeared to have reached an unsatisfactory 


ELIJAH. 


139 


conclusion. (Kitto.) (3) Argument. “ Elihu expresses liis desire to moderate 
between the disputants ; and his words touch upon, although jtliey do not 
thoroughly handle, that idea of the disciplinary nature of suffering which is 
the key to Job’s perplexity and doubt ; but, as in the whole book, the greater 
stress is laid on God’s unsearchable wisdom and the implicit faith which he 
demands. He does not enlarge on any supposable wickedness in Job as 
having brought his present distresses upon him, but controverts his replies, 
his inferences, and his arguments. He observes on the mysterious dispen- 
sations of Providence, which he insists, however they may appear to mor- 
tals, are full of wisdom and mercy ; that the righteous have their share of 
prosperity in this life no less than the wicked ; that God is supreme, and 
that it becomes us to acknowledge and submit to that supremacy ; and he 
draws instances of benignity from the constant wonders of creation, of the 
seasons, etc. His language is copious, glowing, sublime ; and it deserves 
notice that Elihu does not appear to have offended God by his sentiments ; 
nor is any sacrifice of atonement commanded for him as for the other friends 
of Job.” (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v.) 

ELI'JAH. 1. The Prophet. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Eliyah', 
sometimes Eliya'hu, whose God is Jehovah.) Elijah came from Tish- 

beh, a place about which we know nothing, except that it was situated in 
Gilead. Nothing is known concerning his family or birth. 

2. Personal History. The better to understand his history let us 
briefly consider the condition of affairs when Elijah made his appearance. 
Ahab had taken for wife Jezebel, a Canaanite woman, daughter of Eth-baal. 
Of a weak and yielding character, he allowed Jezebel to establish the Phe- 
nician worship on a grand scale — priests and prophets of Baal were ap- 
pointed in crowds — the prophets of Jehovah were persecuted and slain, or 
only escaped by being hid in caves. It seemed as if the last remnants of 
true religion were about to perish. (1) Appears before Ahab. Elijah sud- 
denly appears before Ahab, and proclaims the vengeance of Jehovah for the 
apostasy of the king. “As the Lord God of Israel livetli, before whom I 
stand,” whose constant servant I am, “there shall not be dew nor rain 
these years, but according to my word.” This was probably the conclusion 
of a warning, given to the king, of the consequences of his iniquitous 
course. B. C. 910. Warned by God, he went and (2) Hid by Cherith, per- 
haps the present Wady Kelt. Here he remained, supported by ravens, until 
the brook dried up. Then another refuge was provided for him (3) At 
Zarephath. “ The word of the Lord came unto him, saying, Arise, get thee 
to Zarephaih . . . and dwell there.” At the gate of the city he met the 
woman who was to sustain him, herself on the verge of starvation. Obe- 
dient to his request to prepare him food, she is rewarded by the miracle of 
the prolonging of the meal and oil, and the restoration of her son to life 
after his sudden death. 1 Kings xvii. (4) Second Appearance before Ahab. 
For three .years and six months there had been no rain. James v, 17. At 
last the full horrors of famine, caused by the failure of the crops, descended 
on Samaria. Elijah, returning to Israel, found Ahab yet alive and unre- 
formed, Jezebel still mad upon her idols, and the prophets of Baal still de- 
ceiving the people. Elijah first presents himself (1 Kings xviii) to Oba- 
diah, the principal servant of Ahab and a true servant of God. He requests 
him to announce his return to Ahab, and Obadiah, his fears having been 


140 


ELIJAH. 


removed by the prophet, consents. The conversation between Ahab and 
Elijah, when they met soon after, began with the question of the king, 
“Art thou he that troubletli Israel?” Elijah answers, unhesitatingly, “I 
have not troubled Israel ; but thou and thy father’s house, in that ye have 
forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” 
He then challenges him to exercise his authority in summoning an assem- 
bly to Mouut Carmel that the controversy between them might be decided. 
(5) On Carmel. Whatever were his secret purposes, Ahab accepted this 
proposal, and the people also consented. Fire was the element over which 
Baal was supposed to preside. Elijah proposes (wishing to give them 
every advantage) that, two bullocks being slain, and laid each upon a sepa- 
rate altar, the one for Baal, the other for Jehovah, whichever should be 
consumed by fire must proclaim whose the children of Israel were, and 



MOUNT CARMEL. 


whom it was their duty to serve. There are few more sublime stories in 
history than this. On the one hand the servant of Jehovah, attended by 
his one servant, with his wild, shaggy hair, his scanty garb, and sheepskin 
cloak, but with calm dignity of demeanor, and the minutest regularity of 
procedure. On the other hand the prophets of Baal aud Ashtaroth — doubt- 
less in all the splendor of their vestments, (2 Kings x, 22,) with the wild din 
of their “ vain repetitions ” and the maddened fury of their disappointed 
hopes — and the silent people surrounding all : these form a picture which 
brightens into fresh distinctness every time we consider it. The Baalites 
are allowed to make trial first. All day long these false prophets cried to 
Baal, they leaped upon the altar, aud mingled their blood with that of the 
sacrifice — but all is in vain, for at the time of the evening sacrifice the altar 
was still cold, and the bullock lay stark thereon — “ there was neither voice 
nor any to answer, nor any that regarded.” Then Elijah repaired the 


ELIJAH, 


141 


broken altar of Jehovah, and having laid thereon his bullock, and drenched 
both altar and sacrifice with water until the trench about it was filled, he 
prayed, “ Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this 
day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have 
done all these things at thy word.” The answer was all that could be de- 
sired, for “the fire of the Lord fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and 
the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in 
the trench.” The people acknowledged the presence of God, exclaiming 
with one voice, “ The Lord, he is God ; the Lord, he is God.” By his direc- 
tion the juggling priests are slain, and Ahab informed that he might take 
refreshment, for God will send the desired rain. (6) Prays for Rain. 
Elijah prays, God hears and answers ; a little cloud arises, and, diffusing it- 
self gradually over the entire face of the heavens, empties its refreshing 
waters upon the whole land of Israel. Ahab rides to Jezreel, a distance of 
at least sixteen miles, the prophet running before the chariot, but going no 
farther than “the entrance” of the city. 1 Kings xviii. (7) Flees from 
Jezebel. The prophets of Baal were destroyed; Aliab was cowed; but 
Jezebel remained undaunted. She made a vow against the life of the 
prophet, who, attended by his servant — according to Jewish tradition the 
boy of Zarephath — took refuge in flight. The first stage in his journey 
was “ Beer sheba, which belougeth to Judah.” Leaving his servant in the 
town, he set out alone into the wilderness. I Kings xix, 1-4, (8) Under 

the Juniper Tree. The labors, anxieties, and excitement of the last few 
days had proved too much even for that iron frame and that stern resolu- 
tion. His spirit is quite broken, and, sitting beneath a juniper tree, he 
wishes for death. “It is enough; now, 0 Lord, take away my life; for I 
am not' better than my fathers.” But sleep and food, miraculously furnished, 
refresiied the weary prophet, and he went forward, in the strength of that 
food, a journey of forty days to Mount Horeb. (9) At Horeb. Having 
rested in a cave one night, the word of the Lord came to him in the morn- 
ing, asking, “ What doest thou here, Elijah?” And then he again unbur- 
dens his soul and tells his grief : “ I have been very jealous for Jehovah, 
but Israel has forsaken thy covenant; I stand alone, and my life is sought.” 
He is directed to stand outside the cave, and “ the Lord passed by ” in all 
the terror of his most appalling manifestations. The fierce wind tore the 
solid mountains and shivered the grauite cliffs of Sinai ; the earthquake 
crash reverberated through the defiles of those naked valleys; the fire 
burnt in the incessant blaze of Eastern lightning. Like these, in their de- 
gree, had been Elijah’s own modes of procedure, but the conviction is now 
forced upon him that in none of these is Jehovah to be known. Then came 
tfce whisper of “ the still small voice.” Elijah knew the call, and, stepping 
forward, hid his face in his mantle and waited lor the divine communication. 
Three commands were laid upon him — to anoint Hazael king over Syria; 
Jehu, the son of Nimshi, king over Israel ; and Elisha, the son of Shaphat, 
to be his own successor. Of these three commands the first two were re- 
served for Elisha to accomplish ; the last one was executed by Elijah him- 
self. (10; Finds Elisha. The propnet soon found Elisha at his native 
place, Abel-Meholali. Elisha was plowing at the time, and Elijah, without 
uttering a word, cast his mantle, the well-known sheepskin cloak, upon him, 
as if by that familiar action (which was also a symbol of official investiture) 
claiming him for his son. The call was accepted, and then began that long 


142 


ELIJAH. 


period of service and intercourse which continued until Elijah’s removal. 
1 Kings xix. (11) Reproves Ahab and Jezebel. For about six years we find 
no notice in the sacred history of Elijah, till God sent him once again to pro- 
nounce sore judgment upon Aliab and Jezebel for the murder of the unoffend- 
ing Naboth, (q. v.) Just as Aliab was about to take possession of the vine- 
yard he is met by Elijah, who utters the terrible curse. 1 Kings xxi, 19-25. 
B. C. 900. Ahab, assuming penitence, and afterward proving his sincerity, 
was rewarded by a temporary arrest of judgment ; but it took effect upon 
his wicked consort and children to the very letter. (12) Elijah and King 
Ahaziah. Aliaziah had succeeded his father, Ahab, upon his death; and 
in the second year of his reign met with a serious accident. Fearing a fatal 
result, he sent to Ekron to learn at the shrine of Baal of the issue of his 
illness. But the angel of the Lord told Elijah to go forth and meet the 
messengers of the king. Questioned by Ahaziah as to the reason of their 
early return, the messengers told him of their meeting the prophet and his 
prediction. From their description of him Ahaziah recognized Elijah, the 
man of God. Enraged, he sent a captain with fifty men to take Elijah. He 
was sitting on the top of “ the mount,” probably of Carmel. The officer ad- 
dressed the prophet by the title most frequently applied to him. “ Thou man 
of God, the king hath said, Come down. And Elijah answered and said, If 
I be a man of God, let fire come down from heaven, and consume thee and 
thy fifty. And there came down tire from heaven and consumed him and 
his fifty.” A second company shared the same fate. The altered tone of 
the leader of the third party, and the assurance of God that his servant need 
not fear, brought Elijah down. But the king gained nothing. The mes- 
sage before delivered was repeated to his face, and the king shortly after 
died. This was Elijah’s last interview with the house of Ahab, and his last 
recorded appearance in person against the Baal worshipers. 2 Kings i, 2-17. 
B. C. 896. (13) Warns Jehoram. Jehoram, king of Judah, had married 

the daughter of Ahab, and walked “ in the ways of the kings of Israel, as 
did the house of Aliab.” Elijah sent him a letter denouncing his evil do- 
ings, and predicting his death. 2 Chron. xxi, 12-15. This is the only com- 
munication with the southern kingdom of which any record remains. 
(14) Closing Scenes. The faithful prophet’s warfare is now accomplished, 
and God will translate him in a special manner to heaven. Conscious of 
this, he determines to spend his last moments in imparting divine instruc- 
tion to, and pronouncing his last benediction upon, the students in the col- 
leges of Bethel and Jericho. It was at Gilgal — probably not the ancient 
place of Joshua and Samuel, but another of the same name still surviving on 
the western edge of the hills of Ephraim — that the prophet received the di- 
vine intimation that his departure was at hand. Here he requested Elisha, 
his constant companion, to tarry while he goes on an errand of Jehovah. 
Perhaps the request was made because of the return of his old love for 
solitude, perhaps he desired to spare his friend the pain of too sudden a 
parting, or, it may be, he desired to test the affection of the latter. But 
Elisha would not give up his master, and they went together to Bethel. 
The sons of the prophets, apparently acquainted with what was about to 
happen, inquired of Elisha if lie knew of his impending loss. His answer 
shows liow fully he was aware of it. “'iea, I know it; lioid ye your 
peace.” Again Elijah attempts to escape to Jericho, and again Elisha pro- 
tests that he will not be separated from him. Under the plea of going to 


ELIJAH. 


143 


Jordan, Elijah again requested Elisha to tarry, but still with no success, and 
the two set off together toward the river. Fifty men of the sons of the 
prophets ascend the heights behind the town, to watch what happens. 
Reaching the river, Elijah rolls up his mantle as a staff, strikes the waters, 
which divide, and they two go over on dry ground. What follows is best 
told in the simple words of the narrative : ,l And it came to pass, when they 
were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, 
before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha -said, I pray thee, let a 
double portion of thy spirit be upon me. And he said, Thou hast asked a 
hard thing, nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall 
be so unto thee ; but if not, it shall not be so. And it came to pass, as 
they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, 
and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Eiijah went up by a 
whirlwind into heaven.” Elisha, at the wonderful sight, cried out, like a 
bereaved child, “ My father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horse- 
men thereof ! ” The mantle of his master had, however, fallen upon Elisha, 
as a pledge that the office and spirit of the former were now his own. 
2 Kings ii, 1-13. B. C. 896. 

4. Character. Elijah’s character is one of moral sublimity. His faith 
in God seemed to know no limit nor questioning. His zeal for Jehovah was 
an all-absorbing motive of his life, so that he justly said, “ I have been very 
jealous for the Lord God of Hosts.” No danger nor duty was too severe to 
shake his confidence — no labor too great for his Lord. His courage was 
undaunted, even in the face of royalty or famine. His obedience as simple 
and unquestioning as a child’s. Tender of soul, he could sympathize with 
the widow when she lost her child, or weep over the sad condition of hi3 
deluded countrymen. Stern in principle, he was. in his opposition to sin, 
as fierce as the fire that more than once answered his command. He was 
by nature a recluse, only appearing before men to deliver his message from 
God, and enforce it by a miracle, and then disappearing from sight again. 

“Among innumerable false, unmoved, 

Unshaken, unseduced, unterrified. 

His loyalty he kept, his love, his zeal ! 

Nor number, nor example, with him wrought 
To swerve from truth, or change his constant mind, 

Though single.” 

Difficulties.— (1) The Ravens. Much ingenuity has been devoted to explain- 
ing away the obvious meaning of Elijah’s ravens. 1 Kings xvii, 4, sq. Michaelis 
supposes that the brook Cherith was a place where ravens were wont to congre- 
gate, and that Elijah took from their nests morning and evening the food which 
they brought to their young. Others have explained orebim , to mean 

Arabians ; others, the inhabitants of Orbo, or Oreb ; and some have thought that 
the word might mean merchants, from to traffic. The text, however, plainly 

— T 

records a miracle. (Whedon , Commentary, in loco.) (2) Elijah’s Mocking. Some 
have objected that Elijah’s mockery of Baal’s prophets was not in accordance with 
the spirit of Scripture— “ not rendering railing for railing; but contrarywise, 
blessing.” 1 Pet. iii, 9. “ In the case of Elijah, ridicule was a fit weapon for ex- 
posing t-he folly and absurdity of idol worship. The prophet employed it with ter- 
rible effect.”— Haley, Dis. (3) Letter to Jehoram. This letter has been consid- 
ered as a great difficulty, on the ground that Elijah’s removal must have taken 
place before the death of Jehoshaphat, and, therefore, before the accession of Je- 
horam to the throne of Judah. That Jehoram began to reign during the life-time 
of his father, Jehoshaphat, is stated in 2 Kings viii, 16. He, probably, ascended the 
throne as viceroy or associate some years before the death of his father. 


144 


ELIKA — ELIPHAZ. 


2. A priest of “ the sons of Harim,” who divorced his Gentile wife on 
returning from the exile. Ezra x, 21. B. C. 456. 

ELI'KA, some E I/IK A, (Heb. Elika ', God is Ms rejecter ?) a 

Harodite, and one of David’s thirty- seven distinguished warriors. 2 Sam. 
xxiii, 25. B. C. 1018. 

ELIM'ELECH, (Heb. Elime'lek , God his king,) a man of the 

tribe of Judah who dwelt in Bethlehera-Ephratah in the days of the judges. 
B. C. about 1322. In consequence of a great dearth in the land he went 
with his wife, Naomi, and his two sons, Mahlon and Cliilion. to dwell in 
Hoab, where lie and his two sons died. Ruth i, 2, 3 ; ii, 1, 3 ; iv, 3, 9. 

ELIOE'NAI, (Heb. Elyoenay ', a contracted form of the name 

Elihoenai.) _ ’ : 9 

1. The eldest son of Neariah, son of Shemaiah, of the descendants of 
Zerubbabel. 1 Chron. iii, 23, 24. 

2. A prince of the Simeoniies. 1 Chron. iv, 36. 

3. The fourth son of Becher, son of Benjamin. 1 Chron. vii, 8. B. C. 
after 1700. 

4. Seventh son of Meshelemiah, one of the Korhite porters (door-keepers) 
of the temple. 1 Chron. xxvi, 3. B. C. about 1015. 

5. A priest of the sons of Pashur, who, at the instigation of Ezra, put 
away his Gentile wife and offered a ram for a trespass offering. Ezra x, 22. 
B. C. 456. He is, perhaps, the same mentioned in Nehemiah xii, 41, as one 
of the priests who accompanied Nehemiah with trumpets at the dedication 
of the wall of Jerusalem. B. C. 445. 

6. An Israelite ( singer ) of the sons of Zattu. who likewise divorced his 
Gentile wife after the exile. Ezra x, 27. B. C. 456. 

E I/IP HAL, (Heb. EliphaV , God his judge,) son of Hur, and one 

of David’s mighty men. 1 Chron. xi, 35. B. C. about 1047. See Eliph- 
elet, (3.) 

ELIPH'ALET, a less correct mode, of Anglicizing (2 Sam. v, 16; 
1 Chron. xiv, 7) the name Eliphelet, (q. v.) 

ELTPHAZ, (Heb. Eliphaz ', God his strength*) 

1. A son of Esau by Adah, his first wife, and father of several Edom- 
itish tribes. Gen. xxxvi, 4, 10, 11, 16; 1 Chron. i, 35, 36. B. C. about 
1760. 

2. One of the three friends who came to condole with Job in his afflic- 
tion. They had agreed to meet together for this purpose, but, overpowered 
by feeling at the condition of their friend, they sat down in silence for seven 
days. Job ii, 11. B. C. about 1520. Plliphaz is called “the Temanite,” and 
was probably of Teman, in Idumea. As Eliphaz, the son of Esau, had a 
son named Teman, from whom the place took its name, there is reason to 
conclude that this Eliphaz was a descendant of the former Eliphaz. (Kitto.) 
He is the first speaker among the friends, and probably the eldest among 
them. He begins his orations with delicacy, and conducts his part of the 
controversj r with considerable address. Chap, iv, v, xv, xxii. On him falls the 
main burden of the argument that God’s retribution in this world is perfect 


ELIPHELEU — ELISABETH. 


145 


and certain, and that, consequently, suffering must be a proof of previous 
sin. The great truth brought out by him is the unapproachable majesty 
and purity of God. Chap, iv, 12-21 ; xv, 12-16. But still, with the other 
two friends, he is condemned because they had “ not spoken of God the 
thing that is right.” Chap, xlii, 7. “ In order that they may only maintain 

the justice of God, they have condemned Job against their better knowledge 
and conscience.” — Delitzsch. On sacrifice and intercession of Job all three 
are pardoned. 

ELIPH'ELEH, (Heb. Eliphele'hu, whom God makes distin- 

guished ,) a Merarite Levite, one of the gate-keepers appointed by David to 
play on the harp on the Sheminith ” on the occasion of bringing the 
ark to the city of David. 1 Chron. xv, 18, 21. B. C. 1042. 

ELIPH / EIiET, (Heb. Eliphe'let, God his deliverance .) 

1. The third of the nine sons of David, born at Jerusalem, exclusive of 
those by Bathsheba, (1 Chron. iii, 6 ; xiv, 5,) in which latter passage the name 
is written ElpaXet. B. C. about 1053. 

2. The ninth of the same. 1 Chron. iii, 8; xiv, 7 ; 2 Sam. v, 16, in which 
two latter passages the name is Anglicized Eliphcdet It is believed that 
there were not two sons of this name, but that one is merely a transcribers 
repetition. The two are certainly omitted in Samuel, but, on the other hand, 
they are inserted in two separate lists in Chronicles, and in both cases the 
number of the sons is summed up at the close of the list. 

3. One of David’s distinguished warriors, styled “ the son of Ahasbai. the 
son of the Maachathite,” (2 Sam. xxiii, 34 ;) but, by some error and abbre- 
viation, Eliphal, (q. v.,)the son of Or, in 1 Chron. xi, 35. 

4. The third of the three sons of Eshek, of the posterity of Benjamin, and 
a descendant of King Saul through Jonathan. 1 Chron. viii, 39. 

5. One of the three sons of Adonikam, who returned from Babylon with 
his brothers and sixty males. Ezra viii, 13. B. C. 457. 

6. A descendant of Hashum, who divorced his Gentile wife after the exile. 
Ezra x, 33. B. C. 456. 

ELIS' ABETH, (Gr. EXioafier, from Heb. Elishefba , God her 

oath,) wife of Zacbarias, and mother of John the Baptist. She was a de- 
scendant of Aaron, and of her and her husband this exalted character is 
given by the evangelist : u They were both righteous before God, walking 
in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.” Luke i, 
5, 6. They remained childless until well advanced in years, when ail angel 
foretold to Zacharias the birth of John, and, Zacharias returning home, 
Elisabeth conceived. Chap, i, 7-24. During five mouths she concealed the 
favor God had granted her; but the angel Gabriel discovered to the Yirgin 
Mary this miraculous conception as an assurance of the birth of the Messiah 
by herself. Chap, i, 24-38. Mary visited her cousin, Elisabeth, and they 
exchanged congratulations and praised God together, Mary abiding with her 
for three months. Chap, i, 39-56. When her child was circumcised she 
named him John. Upon her friends objecting that none t>f her kindred had 
that name, an appeal was made to Zacharias; he wrote upon a tablet, “ Ilis 
name is John,” and immediately speech was restored to him. Chap, i, 58-64. 
B. C. 6. 


146 


ELISEUS — ELISHA. 


ELISE'US, the Grecized form of the name Elisha in the New Testament. 
Luke iv, 27. 

ELI'SHA. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Elisha ', God his 

salvation ,) the son of Shaphat, of Abel-Meholah, (in or near the valley of 
Jordan.) 

2. Personal History. (1) Call. Elisha, a husbandman, was plowing 
with a number of companions, himself with the twelfth plow. (Thomson, 
Land and Book.) Elijah, on his way from Horeb to Damascus, found Elisha, 
and threw upon his shoulders his mantle — a token of investiture with the 
prophet’s office and of adoption as a son. Elisha accepted the call, and de- 
laying’only long enough to kiss his father and mother, and give a, farewell 
feast to his people, “ arose and went after Elijah, and ministered unto him.” 

1 Kings xix, 19-21. B. C. 906. (2) Elijah’s Ascension. We hear no more 

of Elisha until he accompanied his master to the other side of Jordan, wit- 
nessed there his ascension, and with his fallen mantle parted the waters, 
and was welcomed by the sons of the prophets as the successor of Elijah. 

2 Kings ii, 1-16. B. C. 896. (3) At Jericho. After this he dwelt at Jer- 

icho. 2 Kings ii, 18. The town had lately been rebuilt by Hiel, (1 Kings 
xvi, 34,) and was the residence of a body of the “sons of the prophets.” 
2 Kings ii, 5. While there he was waited upon by the citizens of the place, 
who complained to him of the foulness of its waters. He remedied the evil 
by casting salt into the water at its source in the name of Jehovah. Chap. 

ii, 19-22. (4) Mocked. Leaving Jericho he went to Bethel, and upon near- 

ing the latter place was met by a number of children (youths ? see Whedon’s 
Commentary) who mockingly cried, “ Go up, thou bald-head.” This dis- 
honor to God through his prophet was sternly rebuked by Elisha, and “ two 
she-bears came out of the wood, and tore forty-two of them. And he went 
from thence to Mount Carmel, and from thence he returned to Samaria.” 
Chap, ii, 23-25. (5) Assists Jehoram. Jehoram, king of Israel, and the 

kings of Judah and Edom, were united in a campaign against Moab, endeav- 
oring to suppress a revolt that occurred shortly after the death of Aliab. A 
difficulty arose from the lack of water. Elisha, being appealed to, requested 
a minstrel to be brought, and at the sound of the music the hand of Jeho- 
vah came upon him. He ordered pits to be dug to hold the abundant sup- 
ply of water which he prophesied would be given them. The water which 
preserved their lives became the source of destruction to their enemies, for 
the next morning “ the sun shone upon the water, and the Moabites saw the 
water on the other side as red as blood ; and they said. This is blood : the 
kings are surely slain, and they have smitten one another : now therefore, 
Moab, to the spoil. And when they came to the camp of Israel, the Isra- 
elites rose up and smote the Moabites, so that they fled before them : but 
they went forward ' smiting the Moabites, even in their country.” 2 Kings 

iii, 4-24. (6) Widow’s Oil. A widow of one of the sons of the prophets 

was in debt, and her two sons about to be taken from her and sold by her 
creditors, as by law they had power to do, (Lev. xxv, 39,) and in her ex- 
tremity she implores the prophet’s assistance. Inquiring into her cir- 
cumstances, he learned that she had nothing save a pot of oil. This Elisha 
caused (in his absence, chap, iv, 5) to multiply until the widow has filled 
with it all the vessels she could borrow, and thus procured the means 
of payment. 2 Kings iv, 7. No place or date of the miracle is mentioned. 


ELISHA. 


147 


(7) Elisha and the Shunamite. On his way between Carmel and the 
Jordan valley Elisha calls at Shunem. Here he is hospitably entertained 
by a rich and godly woman. Desiring t-o have him more than an oc- 
casional guest, a chamber was prepared for his use. This room, called 
the Aliyah, (the upper chamber,) is the most desirable of the house, 
being retired and well fitted up. Elisha, grateful for the kindness shown 
him, asked of the woman if she would have him seek a favor for her of the 
king or captain of the host. She declined the prophet’s offer, saying, “ I 
dwell among mine own people.” Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, reminded him of 
the Shunamite’s childless condition, and a son was promised her, which 
in due time was born. 2 Kings iv, 8-1 7. When the child was large enough 
he went out to his father in the field. While there he was (probably) sun- 
struck, and soon died. The mother laid the dead child upon the prophet’s 
bed, and hastening to the prophet in Carmel, she made him acquainted 
with her loss, and Glehazi is sent before to lay Elisha’s staff upon the face 
of the child. The child’s life not returning, Elisha shut himself up with 
the dead boy, and, praying to God, “ stretched himself upon the child ; 



HOUSE, WITH ALIYAH. 


and the flesh of the child waxed warm.” 2 Kings iv, 18-37. (8) Elisha at 

Gilgal, It was a time of famine, and the food of the prophets must consist 
of any herbs that can be found. The great caldron is put on at the com- 
mand of Elisha, and one of the company brought in his blanket full of 
such wild vegetables as he had collected, and emptied it into the pottage. 
But no sooner have they begun their meal than the taste betrays the pres- 
ence of some noxious herb, and they cry out, “ 0 thou man of God, there is 
death in the pot.” In this case the cure was effected by meal which Elisha 
cast into the caldron. 2 Kings iv, 38-41. Probably at the same time and 
place occurred the next miracle. A man from Baal-shalisha brought to 
Elisha a present of the first-fruits, which, under the law, (Numbers xviii, 
8, 12; Deut. xviii, 3, 4,) were the perquisites of the ministers of the sanct- 
uary — twenty loaves of new barley, and full ears of corn in the husk, 
(perhaps new garden grain.) This, by the word of Jehovah, was rendered 
more than sufficient for a hundred men. 2 Kings iv, 42-44. (9) Naaman 

Cured, Naaman, the chief captain of the army of Syria, was afflicted with 
leprosy, and that in its most malignant form, the white variety. Chap, v, 
10 


148 


ELISHA. 


1, 27. Naaman, hearing of Elisha, informed the king, who sent him, with 
a letter, to the king of Israel. “And now,” so ran Beu-hadad’s letter, 

“ when this letter is come unto thee, behold, I have therewith sent Naaman 
my servant to thee, that thou mayest recover him of his leprosy.” Accom- 
panying the letter were very rich presents of gold, silver, and raiment. 
The' king of Israel saw only one thing in the transaction, namely, a desire 
on the part of Ben-hadad to pick a quarrel with him. The prophet, hearing 
of the matter, sent word to the king, “ Let him come to me, and lie shall 
know that there is a prophet in Israel.” So Naaman stood with his retinue 
before Elisha’s house. Elisha sent a messenger to the general with the 
simple instruction to bathe seven times in Jordan. Naaman is enraged at 
the independent behavior of the prophet and the simplicity of the prescrip- 
tion, but, persuaded by his servants, obeyed Elisha, and was healed of his 
leprosy. Returning, he appears in the presence of the prophet, acknowl- 
edges the power of God, and intreats Elisha to accept the present he had 
brought from Damascus. This Elisha firmly refuses, and dismisses him in 
peace. 2 Kings v, 1-27. B. C. 894. (10) Ax Raised. The home of the 

prophets becoming too small, it was resolved to build , nearer the Jordan. 
While one was felling a tree the ax-head flew off and fell into the water, 
Appeal is made to Elisha: “ Arid he cut down a stick, ard cast it in thither; 
and the iron did swim,” and was recovered. Chap, vi, 1-7. (11) Thwarts 

the Syrians. The Syrians warred against Israel, but their plans, however 
secret, were known to Elisha, who disclosed them to the king of Israel, 
and by his warnings saved the king, “ not once nor twice ” only. The king 
of Syria, learning that Elisha the piophet told of his plans, sent a detach- 
ment of men to take him. They came by night and surrounded Dothan, 
where Elisha resided. His servant was the first to discover the danger, 
and made it known to his master. At his request the eyes of the young 
man were opened to behold the spiritual guards which protected them. 
In answer to Elisha’s prayer the Syrians were blinded, and Elisha offers to 
lead them to the place and person which they sought. He c< nducted them 
to Samaria, where their blindness was removed and they found themselves 
in the presence of the king and his troops. The king, eager to destroy 
them, asked, “ My father, shall I smite them ? shall I smite them ? ” 
Elisha’s object was gained when he showed the Syrians the futility of their 
attempts against him, and he, therefore, refused the king permission to slay 
them, and, having fed them, sent them away to their master. 2 Kings vi, 
8-23. B. C. 893. (12) Famine in Syria. Ben-hadad, the king of Syria, 

now laid siege to Samaria, and its inhabitants were driven to great straits 
by reason of famine. Roused by an encounter with an incident more 
ghastly than all, Jehoram, the king, (Josephus, Ant., ix, 4, 4,) vented, for some 
reason, his wrath upon Elisha, and, with an oath, he said, “ God do so and 
more also to me, if the head of Elisha, the son of Shaphat, shall stand on 
him this day.” An emissary started to execute the sentence, but Elisha, 
warned of the danger, told those present not to admit him, assuring them 
that the king was hastening, (“to stay the result of his rash exclamation,” 
interprets Josephus, Ant., ix, 4, 4.) To the king ElLha promised that within 
twenty-four hours food should be plenty. The next day the Syrian camp was 
found deserted. The night before God caused the Syrians to hear the noise 
of horses and chariots ; and believing that Jehoram had hired against them 
the kings of the Hittites and the king of Egypt, had fled in the utmost 


ELISHA. 


149 


panic and confusion. Thus did God, according to the words of Elisha, de- 
liver Samaria. Another prediction was accomplished; for the distrustful 
lord that doubted the word of Elisha was trampled to death by the fam- 
ished people rushing through the gates of the city to the forsaken tents of 
the Syrians. 2 Kings vi, 24-vii, 20. (13) Shunamite’s Property Restored. 

Eiisha, aware of the famine which God was about to bring upon the land, 
had advised his friend, the Shunamite, of it, that she might provide for 
her safety. She left Shunem for the land of the Philistines, and there re- 
mained during the dearth. At the end of the seven years she returned, 
and found her house and laud appropriated by some other person. When 
she was come to the king to ask redress he was listening to a recital by 
Gehazi of the great things that Elisha had done, the crowning feat of all 
being that which he was then actually relating — the restoration to life of 
the boy of Shunem. The woman was instantly recognized by Gehazi. 
“ My lord, 0 king, this is the woman, and this is her son, whom Elisha 
restored to life.” The king immediately ordered her land to be restored, 
with the value of its produce during her absence. 2 Kings viii, 1-6. B. 0. 
885. (14) Elisha at Damascus. We next find Elisha at Damascus, 

whuher he went to “ anoint Hazael to be king over Syria.” Ben-hadad 
was prostrate with his last illness, and sent Hazael, with a princely 
present, to inquire of Elisha, ‘Shall I recover of this disease?” The 
answer of Elisha, though ambiguous, contained the unmistakable con- 
clusion, “ The Lord hath shewed me that he shall surely die.” The prophet 
fixed his earnest gaze upon Hazael and burst into tears. Inquired of as to 
the cause of his grief, Elisha told him that he should be king aDd bring 
great evil upon the children of Israel. Hazael returned and told the king 
that the prophet had predicted his recovery. That was the last day of 
Ben-hadad’s life, for on the morrow he was smothered, and Hazael reigned 
in his stead. 2 Kings viii, 7-15. (15) Jehu Anointed. While Hazael was 

warring against the combined force of the kings of Israel and Judah (chap, 
viii, 28) Elisha sent one of the u sons of the prophets ” to anoint Jehu, the 
son of Jehoshaphat, king over Israel, and prophesv concerning the fearful 
overthrow of the house of Ahab. Chap, ix, 1, sq. (16) Death. We next find 
Elisha upon liis death-bed. Here he is visited by Joash, the grandson of 
Jehu, who came to weep over the departure of the great and good prophet. 
The king is told that he will smite Syria but thrice, whereas if he had 
shown more energy in smiting the ground with the arrows he should have 
co npletely destroyed his foe. (See Joash.) 2 Kings xiii, 14-19. (17) In 

his Tomb. The power of the prophet does not end with his death, for evt n 
in his tomb he restores the dead to life. A funeral was goiug on in the 
cemetery which contained the sepulcher of Elisha. Seeing a band of Mo- 
abites near by, the frieads of the dead man hastily put him into the ton#) 
of the prophet. The mere touch of his hallowed remains have power, for 
the man “revived, and stood up on his feet.” Chap, xiii, 20, 21. B. C. 
about 838. 

3. Character. . Elisha presents a very striking contrast to his master, 
Elijah, who was a true Bedouin child of the desert. Elisha, on the other 
hand, was a civilized man, preferring the companionship of men, dwelling 
in cities, and often in close connection with kings. Elijah was a man 
whose mission was to accuse of sin or bring judgment upon men because 
of it. Elisha, while defending the ancient religion, comes as the healer, 


150 


ELISHAH — ELISHAMA. 


and so his miracles were those of restoring to life, increasing the widow’s 
oil, making pure the bitter waters. There is tender sympathy for friends, 
tears for his country’s prospective woes. And yet there is firmness in 
maintaining the right, sternness of judgment, and seeming forgetfulness of 
self. “In spite of all the seductions to which he was abundantly exposed 
through the great consideration in which he was held, he retained, at every 
period of his life, the true prophetic simplicity and purity, and contempt for 
worldly wealth and advantages.”— Ewald’s History of Israel, iv, p. 83. 

Difficulties.— (1) Objection has been made to the severity of the punishment 
visited upon the mocking children. “ It is not said that they were actually slain, 
(the expression is to rend , which is peculiarly applicable to the claws of the 

bear.) It is by no means certain that all of them were killed. (M’Clintock and 
Strong, s.v.) Kitto thinks that these children had been instigated by their idola- 
trous parents to mock Elisha, and that by this judgment the people of Bethel were 
to know that to dishonor God’s prophets was to dishonor him. (2) Was the decep- 
tion (2 Kings vi, 19) practiced toward the Syrians justifiable? Various answers 
have been given. Keil and Rawlinson, apparently, regard Elisha’s statement 
simply in the light of a “ stratagem of war.” Thenius says : “ There is no untruth 
in the words of Elisha ; for his home was not in Dothan, where he w r as only resid- 
ing temporarily, but in Samaria ; and the words ‘ to the man ’ may well mean, to 
his house.” Some regard the prophet’s language as mere irony. (Haley’s 
Alleged Dis .) 

ELI'SHAH, (Heb. Elishah ', unknown,) the oldest of the four 

sons of Javan. Gen. x, 4; 1 Chron. i, 7. B. C. perhaps about 2250. He 
seems to have given name to “the isles of Elishah,” which are described 
as exporting fabrics of purple and scarlet to the markets of Tyre. Ezek. 
xxvii, 7. If the descendants of Javan peop’ed Greece we may expect to 
find Elishah in some province of that country. The circumstance of the 
purple suits the Peloponnesus ; for the fish affording the purple dye was 
caught at the mouth of the Eurotas, and the purple of Laconia was very 
celebrated. The name seems kindred to Elis , which, in a wider sense, was 
applied to the whole Peloponnesus ; and some identify Elishah with 
Hellas. 

ELISH'AMA, (Heb. Elishama' , whom God has heard.) 

1. The son of Ammihud, and “captain” of the tribe of Ephraim at the 
Exode. Num. i, 10; ii, 18; vii, 48, 53; x, 22. B. C. 1490. From the gen- 
ealogy in 1 Chron. vii, 26, we find that he was the grandfather of Joshua. 

2. The second of the nine sons of D;ivid born at Jerusalem, exclusive of 
those by Bathsheba, (1 Chron. iii, 6,) called in the parallel passages (2 Sam. 
v, 15 ; 1 Chron. xiv, 5) by apparently the more proper name Elishua, (q. v.) 
^ 3. Tiie seventh of the same series of sons. 1 Chron. iii, 8 ; xiv, 7. Ac- 
cording to Samuel, (2 Sam. v, 14-16,) there were only eleven sons born to 
David after his establishment in Jerusalem, and Elishama is fifth of the 
series. B. C. after 1040. 

4. An Israelite of the family of David, father of Nethaniah, and grand- 
father of Ishmael, who slew Gedaliah, the ruler appointed by Nebuchad- 
nezzar Over the people that were left in Judea. 2 Kings xxv, 25 ; Jer. xli, 1. 
B. C. before 588. 

5. An Israelite of the tribe of Judah and of the family of Jerahmeel, the 
son of Hezron. In the Jewish tradition preserved by Jerome ( Qu . Hebr. on 
1 Chron. ii, 41) he appears to be identified with No. 4. 


EL1SHAPHAT— ELKANAH. 151 

6. One of the two priests sent with the Levites by Jehoshaphat to teach 
the law through the cities of Judah. 2 Chron. xvii, 8. B. C. 912. 

7. A royal scribe, in whose chamber the roll of Jeremiah was read to 
him and other magnates, and afterward deposited for a time. Jer. xxxvi, 12, 
20, 21. B. C. about 606. 

EIiISH'AFHAT, (Heb. Elishaphaf, whom God has judged,) 

T T • V. 

son of Zichri. One of the captains of hundreds by whose aid Jelioiada, the 
priest, placed Joash on the throne of Judah, and overthrew Athaliah, the 
usurper. 2 Chron. xxiii, 1. B. C. 878. 

ELISH'EBA, (Heb. Elishe'ba, God her oath, that is, worshiper 

of God,) daughter of Amrainadab, and sister of Naashon, the captain of 
the Hebrew host. Hum. ii, 3. She became the wife of Aaron, and hence 
the mother of the priestly family. Exod. vi, 23. B. C. about 1530. 

ELISHU'A, (Heb. God his salvation ,) one of the sons of David 

born at Jerusalem, (2 Sam. v, 15 ; 1 Chron. xiv, 5,) called Elisuama (q. v.) 
In the parallel passage. 1 Chron. iii, 6. B. C. after 1044. 

ELFUJD, (Gr. ’E liovd, probably for Heb. Tippet God is his praise, but 

not found in the Old Testament,) son of Achim, and father of Eleazar, being 
the fifth in ascent in Christ’s paternal genealogy. Matt, i, 14, 15. B. C. 
about 200. (M’Clintock and Strong.) 

ELIZ'APHAN, (Heb. Elitsaphan', whom God protects.) 

1. The second son of Hzziel, and chief of the Kohathite Levites at the 
Exode. Hum. iii, 30 ; Exod. vi, 22. B. C. 1490. He, with his elder 
brother, Mishael, was directed by Moses to carry away the corpses of their 
sacrilegious cousins, Nadib and Abihu. Lev. x, 4. In Exodus and Leviticus 
the name is contracted into Elzaphan. His family took part in the cere- 
mony of bringing the ark to Jerusalem in the time of David, (1 Chronicles 
xv, 8,) and were represented in the revival under Hezekiah. 2 Chronicles 
xxix, 13. 

2. Son of Parnach, and prince of the tribe of Zebulun, appointed to assist 
Moses in the division of the laud of Canaan. Num. xxxiv, 25. 

ELI'ZUR, (Heb. Elitsur ', God his rock,) son of Shedeur, and 

prince of the tribe of Reuben at the Exode. Num. i, 5; ii, 10; vii, 30, 35; 
x, 18. B. C. 1490. 

ELKA'NAH, [some EVkanah,\ (Heb. Elkanah ', whom God cre- 

ated,) the name of several men, all, apparently, Levites. There is much 
difficulty and uncertainty in the discrimination of the various individuals 
who bear this name. 

1. The second son of Korah, according to Exod. vi, 24, where his broth- 
ers are represented as being Assir and Abiasaph. But in 1 Chronicles vi, 
22, 23, Assir, Elkanah, and Ebiasaph are mentioned in the same order, not 
as the three sons of Korah, but as son, grandson, and great-grandson 
respectively; and this seems to be correct. 

2. Son of Shaul, or Joel, being the father of Amasai, and ninth in de- 
scent from Kohath, the son of Levi. 1 Chron. vi, 25, 36. B. C. about 1445. 


152 


ELMODAM — ELON. 


3. Son of Ahimoth, or Mahnth, being father of Znph, or Zophai, and 
great-grandson of the one immediately preceding. 1 Chron. vi, 26, 35. B. CL 
about 1300. 

4. Another Kohathite Levite, in the line of Heman, the singer. He was 
the son of Jeroham and father of Samuel. 1 Chron. vi, 27, 28, 33, 34. 
B. C. 1190. He is described (1 Sam. i, 1, sq.) as living at Ramathaim- 
zophim, in Mount Ephraim, otherwise called Ramah ; as having two wives, 
Hannah and Peninnah, with no children by the former till the birth of 
Samuel in answer to the prayer of Hannah. We learn also that he lived in 
the time of Eli, the higli-priest ; that he was a pious man, going up yearly 
to Shiloh to worship and sacrifice. Chap, i, 3. After the birth of Samuel 
Elkanah and Hannah continued to live at Ramah, and had three sons and 
two daughters. Chap, ii, 21. Elkanah, the Levite, is called an Ephraimite 
because, so far as his civil standing was concerned, he belonged to the tribe 
of Ephraim ; the Levites being reckoned as belonging to those tribes in 
the midst of which they lived. (Keil and Delitzsch.) 

5. The father of one Asa, and head of a Levitical family resident in the 
“ villages of the Netophathites.” 1 Chron. ix, 16. B. C. long before 536. 

6. A man of the family of Korhites who joined David while lie was at 
Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 6. B. C. about 1058. He probably resided in the tribe 
of Benjamin, which included four Levitical cities. Perhaps he was the 
same person who was one of the two door-keepers for the ark when it was 
brought to Jerusalem. 1 Chron. xv, 23. B. C. 1042. 

7. The chief officer in the household of Ahaz, king of Judah, slain by 
Zichri, the Ephraimite, when Pekah invaded Judah. 2 Chron. xxviii, 7. B. C. 
about 741. 

ELMO'DAM, (Gr. ’E IfiuSag.,) son of Er and father of Cosam, one of 
the ancestors of Christ in the private line of David. Luke iii, 28. He is 
not mentioned in the Old Testament. 

ELNAAM, (Heb. Elna'am , DP^X, God his delight ,) father of Zeribai 

and Joshaviah, two of David’s distinguished warriors. 1 Chron. xi, 46. 
B. C. 1047. “In the Septuagint the second warrior is said to be the son 
of the first, and Elnaam is given himself as a member of the guard.” 

ELNA'THAN, (Heb. Elnathan ', jn^X, whom God has given.) 

1. An inhabitant of Jerusalem, whose daughter, Nehushta, was the 
mother of Jehoiachin, king of Judah. 2 Kings xxiv, 8. B. C. before 599. 
He was, perhaps, the same with the son of Achbor sent by Jehoiakim to 
bring the prophet Urijah from Egypt, (Jer. xxvi, 22,) and in whose presence 
the roll of Jeremiah was read, for the preservation of which he interceded 
with the king. Jer. xxxvi, 12, 25. B. C. about 606. 

2, 3, 4. Three of the Israelites of position and understanding sent by 
Ezra to invite the priests and Levites to accompany him to Jerusalem. Ezra 
viii, 16. B. C. 457. 

E'LON, (Heb. Eylon ', j^X, No 1, and Elon', No. 2 and 3, oak.) 

1. A Hittite, father of Bathshemath, (Gen. xxvi, 34,) or Adah, (Genesis 
xxxvi, 2,) wife of Esau. B. C. before 1796. 

2. The second of the three sons of Zebulun, (Gen. xlvi, 14,) and head of 
the family of Elonites. Num. xxvi, 26. B. C. before 1700. 


ELPAAL — ENOCH. 158 

3. An Israelite of the tribe of Zebulun, and judge for ten years. Judg. xii, 
11,12. B. C. 1130-1120. 

EIjPA'AL, [many Elpa'al,] (Heb. Elpa'al , God his wages,) the 

second of the two sons of Shaharaim by his wife Hushim, and progenitor of 
a numerous progeny. He was a Benjamite. 1 Chron. viii, 11, 12, 18. 

ELP AGLET, a contracted form (1 Chron. xiv, 5) of the name Eliphalet, 
(q. v.) 

EliU'ZAIj (Heb. Eluzay ' God my praises ; that is, the object of 

praise,) one of the Benjamite warriors who joined David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. 
xii, 5. B. C. about 1058. 

EL'YMAS, (Gr. ’E Mfiag, derived from the Arabic Aliman , a wise man,) 
a Jew named Bar-jesus. who had attached himself to the proconsul of Cy- 
prus, Sergius Paulus. when Paul visited the island. Acts xiii, 6, sq. Upon 
Iiis endeavoring to dissuade the proconsul from embracing the Christian 
faith he was struck with miraculous blindness by the apostle. A. D. 44. 
EL'ZABAD, (Heb. Elzabad', whom God has given.) 

1. The ninth of the eleven Gadite heroes who joined David in the wil- 
derness fastness of Judah. 1 Chron. xii, 12. B. C. about 1058. 

2. One of the sons of Shemaiah, the son of Obed-edoin the Levite. He 
served as a porter to the “ house of Jehovah ” under David. 1 Chron. xxvi, 7. 
B. C. 1015. 

EI/ZAPHAN, a contracted form (Exod vi, 22 ; Lev. x, 4) of the name 
Elizaphan, (q. v.) 

EM'MOR, (Gr. ’E ppop,) a Grecized form (Acts vii, 16) of the name 
Hamoe, (q. v.,) the father of Shechem. Gen. xxxiv, 2. 

E'NAN, (Heb. Eynan', p'y, having eyes,) the father of Ahira, who was 

“ prince ” of the tribe of Naphtali at the time of the numbering of Israel in 
the desert of Sinai. Num. i, 15; ii, 29; vii, 78, 83; x, 27. B. C. 1490. 
E'NOCH, (Heb. Chanok', Tjilft, initiated ,) the name of two men, two 

others having their name given as Hanoch, (q. v.) 

1. The eldest son of Cain, who called the city which he built after his 
name. Gen. iv, 17, 18. B. C. about 3875. 

2. The son of Jared (Gen. v, 18) and father of Methuselah. Chap, v, 21, 
sq. ; Luke iii, 37. B. C. 3382-3017. After the birth of Methuselah, in his 
Go hyear, he lived 300 years. From his name, 14 the Inaugurator,” Ewald 
(History of Israel, i, p. 266) concludes that he “ was a good spirit, who was 
invoked on any new or difficult undertaking; ” and, from the period of 365 
years assigned to his life, that “ he became the god of the new year.” 
Though this conjecture has very little probability, the number may have 
been not without influence on the later traditions which assigned to Enoch 
the discovery of the science of astronomy. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclo- 
paedia .) After the birth of Methuselah, it is said (Gen. v, 22-24) that 
“ Enoch walked with God 300 years, and was not ; for God took him.” As 
a reward of his sanctity he was transported into heaven without dying, and 
thus the doctrine of immortality was plainly taught under the old dispensa- 
tion. In the Epistle to the Hebrews (chap, xi, 5) the spring and issue of 


154 


ENOS— EPENETAS. 


Enoch’s life are clearly marked. Jude (vers. 14, 1 5) quotes from a prophecy 
of Enoch, but wheiher he derived his quotation from tradition or from writ- 
ing is uncertain. The voice of early ecclesiastical tradition is almost unani- 
mous in regarding Enoch and Elijah as “ the two witnesses.” Rev. xi, 3. 

E'NOS, (Iieb. Enosh ', a man,) the son of Seth and grandson of 

Adam. Gen. v, 6-11; Luke iii, 38. B. C. 3769-2864. He lived 905 years, 
and is remarkable on account of a singular expression used respecting him 
in Gen. iv, 26, “ Then began men to call upon the name of the Lord.” Two 
explanations are given of this passage. One is the marginal reading, 
“ Then began men to call themselves by the name of the Lord,” in order, it 
would seem, to distinguish themselves from those who were already idola- 
ters, and were termed children of men ; the other, “ Then men profanely 
called on the name of the Lord,” intimating that at that period idolatry be- 
gan to be practiced among men. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) In 
1 Ciiron. i, 1, the name is Anglicized Enosh. 

E'NOSH, a more correct way of Anglicizing (1 Chron. i, 1) the name 
Enos, (q. v.) 

EF'APHRAS, (Gr. ’E7r a^puf, probably a contraction of Epaphroditus,) 
an eminent teacher in the Church at Colossae, denominated by Paul “ his 
dear fellow-servant,” and “ a faithful minister of Christ.” Col. i, 7; iv, 12. 
A. D. 64: It has been inferred from Col. i, 7, (“As ye also learned of 
Epaphras,”) that he was the founder of the Colossian Church. Lardner 
thinks that the expression respecting Epaphras in Col. iv, 12, 6 vpuv, (one 
of you,) is quite inconsistent with the supposition 6f his being the founder 
of the Church, since the same phrase is applied to Onesimus, a recent con- 
vert. The words are probably intended to identify these individuals as fel- 
low-townsmen of the Colossians. He was at this time with Paul in Rome, 
and is afterward mentioned in the Epistle to Philemon, (verse 23,) where 
Paul calls him “ my fellow-prison er.” The martyrologies make Epaphras 
to have been the first bishop of Colosse, and to have suffered martyrdom 
there. 

EPAPHRODI'TUS, (Gr. ’E7r adpoStrnc, belonging to Aphrodite , or 
Venus,) a messenger of the Church at Philippi to the apostle Paul during 
his imprisonment at Rome, intrusted with their contributions for his sup- 
port. Phil, ii, 25 ; iv, 18. Paul seems to have. held him in high appreciation, 
calling him his brother, companion in labor, and fellow-soldier. While in 
Rome he contracted a dangerous illness, brought on by his ministering to 
the apostle. Phil, ii, 30. On his return to Philippi lie was the bearer of the 
epistle to the Church there. Grotius and some other critics conjecture that 
Epaphroditus was the same as Epaphras mentioned in the Epistle to the 
Colossians. But though the latter name may be a contraction of the former, 
the fact that Epaphras was most probably in prison at the time sufficiently 
marks the distinction of the persons. (Kitto.) 

EPEN'ETAS, (Gr. ’EnalveToc, commendable.) a Christian resident at 
Rome when Paul wrote his epistle to the Church in that city, and one of 
the persons to whom he sent special salutations. Rom. xvi, 5. In the re- 
ceived text he is spoken of as being “the first-fruits of Achaia but “the 
first-fruits of Asia is the reading of the best MSS.” (Kitto, Cyclopaedia.) 


EPHAH — EPHRAIM. 


155 


E'PHAH, (Heb. Eyphah ', nS'J?, gloom.) 

1. The first-named of the five sons of Midian. Gfm. xxv, 4; 1 Chron. i, 33. 
B. C. about 1853. His descendants formed one of the tribes of the desert 
connected witii the Midianites, Shebaites, and Ishmaelites. Isa. lx, 6, 7. 

2. A concubine of Caleb, the son of Hezron, of the tribe of Judah. 
1 Chron. ii, 46. B. C. about 1471. 

3. One of the sous of Jahdai, probably a descendant of one of the sons 
of the foregoing. 1 Chron. ii, 47. 

E'PHAI, (Heb. Eyphay', languid , hence gloomy ,) a Netophathite, 

whose sons were among the “ captains of the forces” left in Judah after 
the deportation to Babylon, and who submitted themselves to Gedaliah, the 
Babylonian governor. Jer. xl, 8. They warned Gedaliah of the plots against 
him, but were disbelieved by him, (vers. 13-16,) and probably were massa- 
cred with him by Ishmael. Chap, xli, 2, 3. B. C. 588. 

ETHER, (Heb. E'pher , "iay. a calf, Gesenius; according to others, the 
gopher.) 

1. The second-named of the sous of Midian, (Genesis xxv, 4; 1 Chron. 
i, 33,) Abraham’s son by Keturah. B. C. probably after 1830. 

2. An Israelite of the tribe of Judah, apparently of the family of Caleb, 
the son of Jephunneh. 1 Chron. iv, 17. 

3. The head of one of the families of Manasseh east, who were carried 
away by Tilgath-pilueser. 1 Chron. v, 21-26. B. C. before 740: 

EPH'LAL, (Heb. EphlaV , judgment,) the son of Zabad, a de- 

scendant of Judah of the lineage of Shshean. 1 Chron. ii, 37 

ETHOD, (Heb. Ephod', an ephod,) the- father of Hanniel, the 

prince of the tribe of Manasseh, who was one of those appointed to divide 
the land amoug the tribes of Israel. Num. xxxiv, 23. B. C. befo e 1452. 

EPHRAIM, (Heb. Ephrayim , fruitful,) the second son of Jo- 

seph by Asenath, the daughter of Poti-pherah, (Gen. xlvi, 20,) born during 
the seven years of plenty. B. C. 1711. 

1. Personal History. The first incident in Ephraim’s history is the 
blessing of his grandfather, Jacob. Contrary to the intention of Joseph, 
Ephraim was preferred to Manasseh by Jacob, and upon him was conferred 
the birthright blessing. Gen. xlviii, 17-19. Before Joseph’s death Ephra- 
im's family had reached the third generation. (Gen. 1, 23,) and it may have 
been about this time that the affray mentioned in 1 Chron. vii. 21, occurred, 
when some of his sons were killed, and when Ephraim named a son Beriah, 
to perpetuate the memory of the disaster which had fallen on his house. 

2. The Tribe of Ephraim. (1) Numbers. At the census in the wil- 
derness of Sinai (Num. i, 32, 33 ; ii, 19) its numbers were forty thousand 
five hundred, ranking tenth, and had decreased to thirty-two thousand five 
hundred at the second census, ranking eleventh. (2) Position. During the 
march through the wilderness the position of the sons of Joseph and Benjamin 
was on the west side of the tabernacle, (Num. ii, 18-24,) and the prince of 
Ephraim was Elishama, the son of Ammihud. Num. i, 10. According to 
rabbinical authority, the standaid of Ephraim was a golden flag, on which 
the head of a calf was depicted. The representative of Ephraim among the 


156 


EPIIRATAH — ER. 


spies was the great hero “ Oshea, the son of Nun,” whose name was changed 
by Moses to the more distinguished form (Joshua) in which it is familiar to 
us. (3) Territory. The boundaries of Ephraim are given in Josh. xvi. 
(Compare 1 Curon. vii, 28, 29.) We are not able to trace this boundary- 
line very exactly. But Ephraim occupied the very center of Palestine, em- 
bracing an area about forty miles in length from east to west, and from six 
to twenty-five in breadth from north to south. It extended from the Med- 
iterranean to the Jordan, having on the north the half-tribe of Manasseh, 
and on the south Benjamin and Dan. Josh, xvi, 5, etc.; xviii, 7, etc.; 
1 Ohron. vii, 28, 29. The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh were not at 
first contented with the size of their allotted portions, and were told by 
Joshua to go boldly and expel the inhabitants of the adjacent mountain and 
woodland country and occupy it. Josh, xvii, 14-18. (4) Subsequent His- 

tory. “ The tabernacle was set up in Ephraim, at Shiloh. Josh, xviii, 1. 
By this circumstance the influence of the tribe was increased, and we find 
it bearing itself haughtily. We have an example of this in their remon- 
strance to Gideon after his first victory, which that leader deemed prudent 
to pacify by a flattering answer. Judg. vii, 24, 26 ; viii, 1-3. With Jeph- 
thah they were still more incensed, because, as they said, he had not so- 
licited their aid. Jephthah boldly attacked and defeated them. Judges 
xii, 1-6. At first the Ephraimites did not submit to the authority of 
David, (2 Sam. ii, 8, 9 ;) and though, after the death of Ish-bosheth, a large 
body of them went to Hebron to join David, and that monarch could speak 
of Ephraim as the strength of his head, yet the jealousy against Judah 
sometimes broke out. 1 Chron. xii, 30; Psa.lx, 7 ; 2 Sam. xix, 40-43. Da- 
vid had his ruler in Ephraim, (1 Chron. xxvii, 20,) and Solomon his com- 
missariat officer. 1 Kings iv, 8. Still, the spirit and weight of the tribe 
were so great, that Rehoboam found it necessary to repair to Shechem, a 
city within its borders, for his inauguration. 1 Kings xii, 1. And then, 
on his foolish refusal of their demands, the ten tribes revolted, and estab- 
lished a different mode of worship. 1 Kings xii. After this Ephraim was 
the main support of the northern kingdom, which came to be designated by 
its name, and the reunion of which with Judah was the hope of the proph- 
ets as the fulfillment of Israel’s glory. Isa. vii, 2; xi, 13; Ezek. xxxvii, 
15-22-. After the captivity, ‘children of Ephraim’ dwelt in Jerusalem. 
1 Chron. ix, 3 ; compare Nell, xi.” — Whitney’s Geography. 

EPH'RATAH, or EPH'RATH, (Heb. Ephra'thah, nnnCNt, land , [Ge- 

seuius,] others fruitful , ) the second wife of Caleb, the son of Hezron, mother 
of Hur, (1 Chron. ii, 19,) and grandmother of Caleb, the spy. Yer. 60 ; 
chap, iv, 4. B. C. about 1471. * 

EPH'RON, (Heb. Ephron perhaps fawn-like ,) the son of Zohar, 

a Hittite; the owner of a field which lay facing Mamre, or Hebron, and of 
the cave contained therein, which Abraham bought from him for 400 shekels 
of silver. Gen. xxiii, 8-17; xxv, 9; xlix, 29, 30 ; 1, 13. B. C. 1860. By Jo- 
sephus {Ant., i, 14) the name is Ephraim, and the purchase money 40 shekels. 

ER, (Heb. same, “)$?, waking.) 

1. The eldest son of the patriarch Judah by Bath-Shuah, (daughter of 
Shuali,) a Canaanitess. Gen. xxxviii, 2, 3. B. C. about 1727. “ Er was 


ERAN — ESAR-H ADDON. 


157 


wicked in the sight of the Lord ; and the Lord slew him.” Yerse 7 ; Num. 
xxvi, 19. It does not appear what the nature of his sin was ; but, from his 
Canaanitish birth on his mother’s side, it was probably connected with the 
abominable idolatries of Canaan. (Smith.) 

2. The son of Shelah and grandson of Judah. I Chron. iv, 21. B. C. 
probably after 1700. 

3. The son of Jose and father of Elmodam, in the ancestry of Joseph, the 
husband of Mary. Luke iii, 28. 

E'RAN, (Heb. Eran ', pp, watchful ,) son of Shuthelah, (eldest son of 
Ephraim,) and head of the family of the Eranites. Num. xxvi, 36. 

ERAS'TUS, (G-r. "E paoroc, beloved,) a Corinthian, and one of Paul’s dis- 
ciples, whose salutations he sends from Corinth to the Church at Rome as 
those of “the chamberlain of the city.” Rom. xvi, 23. The word so ren- 
dered {ovKovofioq, Yulg. arcarius ) denotes the city treasurer , (or steward,) an 
officer of great dignity in ancient times, (Josephus, Ant , vii, 8, 2 ;) so that 
the conversion of such a man to the faith of the Gospel was a proof of the 
wonderful success of the apostle’s labors in that city. We find Erastus 
with Paul at Ephesus as one of his attendants or deacons, whence he was 
sent along with Timothy into Macedonia, while the apostle himself remained 
in Asia. Acts xix, 22. They were both with the apostle at Corinth tvhen 
lie wrote, as above, from that city to the Romans ; at a subsequent period 
Erastus was still at Corinth, (2 Tim. iv, 20,) which would seem to have beeu 
'the usual place of his abode. (Kitto.) 

E'RI, (Heb. Eri', i-|y, watching ,) the fifth son of the patriarch Gad, (Gen. 

xlvi, 16,) and ancestor of the Erites. Num. xxvi, 16. 

ESA'IAS, the Grecized form constantly used in the New Testament for 
Isaiah, (q. v.) 

E'SAR-HAE'EON, (Heb. Esar / -IIaddon / , piYIptf, gift of fire , [M’Clin- 

tock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia,}) the son and successor of Sennacherib. 2 Kings 
xix, 37 ; Isa. xxxvii, 38. 

Personal History. Nothing is really known of Esar-haddon until his 
accession, (B. C. about 680,) which seems to have taken place quietly and 
without difficulty on the murder of his father and the flight of his guilty 
brothers. 2 Kings xix, 37 ; Isa. xxxvii, 38. He appears by his monuments 
to have been one of the most powerful — if not the most powerful — of all the 
Assyrian raonarchs. He carried his arms over all Asia between the Persian 
Gulf, the Armenian mountains, and the Mediterranean. In consequence of 
the disaffection of Babylon, and its frequent revolts from former Assyrian 
kings, Esar-haddon, having subdued the sons of Merodach-baladan, who 
headed the national party, introduced the new policy of substituting for the 
former government by viceroys a direct dependence upon the Assyrian 
crown. He is the only Assyrian monarch whom we find to have actually 
reigned at Babylon, where he built himself a palace, bricks from which have 
been recently recovered bearing his name. His Babylonian reign lasted thir- 
teen years, from B. C. 680 to B. C. 667. As a builder of great works Esar- 
haddon is particularly distinguished. Besides his palace at Babylon, which has 
been already mentioned, he built at least three others in different parts of 
his dominions, either for himself or his son; while in a single inscription he 


158 


ESAU. 


mentions the erection by his hands of no fewer than thirty temples in As- 
syria and Mesopotamia. The south-west palace at Nimrud is the best pre- 
served of his constructions. It is impossible to fix the length of Esar-had- 
don’s reign, or the order of the events which occurred in it. It has been 
conjectured that he died about B. C. 660, after occupying the throne for 
twenty years. (Smith.) 

E'SAU. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Esav\ hairy , [see Gen. 

xxv, 25 ;] his surname, Edom , was given him from the red pottage, [Gen. 
xxv, 30,]) the eldest son of Isaac by Rebekah, and twin-brother of Jacob. 

2. Personal History. We have no account of the early life of Pisan 
beyond an incident or two connected with his birth. Gen. xxv, 22-26. B. C. 
about 1836. As he grew up Esau became “ a cunning hunter, a man of the 
field.” He was, in fact, a thorough “ son of the desert,” who delighted to 
roam free as the wind of heaven, and who was impatient of the restraints 
of civilized or settled life. Still his father loved him, and none the less for 
the savory venison the son brought to him. Chap, xxv, 28. (1) Sells his 

birthright. Coming in one day from the chase hungry and longing for food, 
he saw Jacob enjoying a dish of pottage. He prayed Jacob to share his 
meal with him. Jacob set a price upon the food, even the birthright of his 
brother. This was, indeed, a large demand, for the birthright secured to its 
possessor immunities and privileges of high value — the headship of the 
tribe, both spiritual and temporal, and the possession of the great bulk of 
the family property, and carried with it the covenant blessing. Gen. xxvii, 28, 
29, 36; Heb. xii, 16, 17. Urged by hunger, however, Esau acceded to Ja- 
cob’s demands and secured the food, and “ despised his birthright.” Genesis 
xxv, 29-34. B. C. about 1805. (2) Marries. At the age of forty years 

Esau married two wives in close succession. These were both Canaanites, 
and, on account of their origin, were not acceptable to Isaac and Rebekah. 
The latter was especially grieved. “ I am weary,” she said, (Gen. xxvii, 46,) 
“ of my life, because of the daughters of Heth.” (1) His first wife was 
Adah, the daughter of Elon the Hittite, (Gen. xxxvi, 2,) called Bashemath 
in Gen. xxvi, 34. (2) His second wife was Aholibamah, the daughter of 

Anah, as all the accounts agree except that in Gen. xxvi, 34, where, by 
some error or variation of names, she is called Judith, the daughter of 
Beeri the Hittite. (See Keil, Commentary; M’Clintock and Strong’s Cy- 
clopcedia.) (3) Esau’s third wife, taken from his own kindred, was Bashe- 
math, (otherwise called Mahalath, Gen. xxviii, 9,) sister of Nebajoth, and 
daughter of Ishmael. Gen. xxxvi, 3. (3) Loses his Father’s Blessing. 

"When Isaac was grown old and feeble he wished, in the consciousness of 
approaching death, to give his blessing to his elder son. Without regard 
to the words which were spoken by God with reference to the children be- 
fore their birth, and without taking any notice of Esau’s frivolous barter 
of his birthright and his ungodly connection with Canaanites, Isaac main- 
tained his preference for Esau. He commanded him to hunt game and pre- 
pare him a savory dish, that he might eat and bless him. Rebekah sought 
to frustrate this plan, desiring to secure the inheritance for Jacob. Jacob 
successfully simulated Esau, and secured the desired blessing, but had 
scarcely done so when Esau returned. When told that his brother had se- 
cured the prize, he cried out, “ Bless me, even me also, 0 my father ! ” Urg- 
ing this entreaty again and again, even with tears, Isaac at length said to 


ESAU. 


159 


him, “ Behold, thy dwelling shall be the fatness of the earth, and of the 
dew of heaven from above ; and by thy sword shalt thou live, and shalt 
serve thy brother: and it shall come to pass when thou shall have the 
dominion, that thou shalt break his yoke from off thy neck.” Thus deprived 
forever of his birthright by virtue of the irrevocable blessing, Esau hated 
his brother, and vowed vengeance. But he said to himself, “ The days of 
mourning for my father are at hand ; then will I slay my brother Jacob.” 
When Esau heard that his father had commanded Jacob to take a wife of 
the daughters of his kinsman Laban, he also resolved to try whether by a 
new alliance he could propitiate his parents. He accordingly married his 
cousin Mahalath, the daughter of Ishmael. Gen. xxviii, 6-9. (4) Removes 

to Mount Seir. Esau probably removed soon alter this to Mount Seir, still 
retaining, however, some interest in his father’s property in southern Pales- 
tine. It is probable that his own habits, and the idolatrous practices of his 
wives and rising family, continued to excite and even increase the anger of 
his parents; and that he. consequently, considered it more prudent to re- 
move his household to a distance. Gen. xxxii, 3. (5) Reconciled to Jacob. 

Esau was residing in Mount Seir when Jacob returned from Padan-aram, 
and Jacob, fearing lest Esau should desire to take revenge for former in- 
juries, sent messengers in order, if possible, to appease his wrath. In re- 
ply to his conciliatory message, Esau came to meet him with four hundred 
armed men. Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed.” What must have 
been his surprise, when they neared each other, to see Esau running with 
extended arms to greet and embrace him ! Esau “ fell on his neck and 
kissed him, and they wept.” Jacob had prepared a present for Esau, which 
the latter at first refused to take, but afterward accepted. Esau’s off'r to 
march with Jacob as a guard was declined, and Esau returned to Mount 
Seir. Gen. xxxii, 3-xxxiii, 16. B. C. 1739. (6) Later History. It does 

not appear that the two brothers met again until the death of their father. 
B. C. 1716. Mutual interest and fear constrained them to act honestly, 
and even generously, toward each other at this solemn interview. They 
united in laying the body of Isaac in the cave of Machpelah. Gen. 
xxxv, 29. Then “ Esau took all his cattle, and all his substance, which he 
had got in the land of Canaan ” — such, doubtless, as his father, with Jacob’s 
consent, had assigned to him — “and went into the country from the face of 
his brother Jacob.” Chap, xxxvi, 6. Esau is once more presented to us 
(Gen. xxxvi, 43) in a genealogical table, in which a long line of illustrious 
descendants is referred to “ Esau, the father of the Edomites.” 

3. Character. “ Esau, the shaggy red-haired huntsman, the man of the 
field, with his arrows, his quiver, and his bow, coming in weary from the 
chase, caught, as with the levity and eagerness of a child, by the sight of 
the lentil soup — ‘ Feed me, I pray thee, with the “ red, red ” pottage ’ — yet 
so full of generous impulse, so affectionate toward his aged father, so for- 
giving toward his brother, so open-handed, so chivalrous : who has not at 
times felt his heart warm toward the poor rejected Esau, and been tempted 
to join with him as he cries with ‘ a great and exceeding bitter cry,’ ‘ Bless 
me, even me also, 0 my father?’ Iu the Jewish history, what a foreshad- 
owing of the future 1 We may even venture to trace in the wayward chief- 
tain of Edom the likeness of the fickle, uncertain Edomite, now allied, now 
hostile, to the seed of promise. * A turbulent and unruly race,’ so Josephus 
describes the Idumeaus of his day; ‘always hovering on the verge of rev- 


160 


ESHBAAL— ESTHER. 


elution, always rejoicing in changes, roused to arms by the slightest motion 
of flattery, rushing to battle as if they were going to a feast.’ ” — Stanley. 

Difficulties.— (1) Esau a Profane Person. The apostle in Hebrews (chapter 
xii, 16) mentions Esau as a “ profane person.” This probably means that Esau 
was a sensualist, who, for a moment’s gratification, sold his birthright. He is, 
therefore, marked as the pattern of those who sacrifice eternity for the pleasure 
of an hour. “ The justice of this judgment appears from considering what the 
birthright was which he sold at such a price. Esau was, by right of birth, the 
head of the family, its prophet, priest, and king ; and no man can renounce such 
privileges, except as a sacrifice required by God, without ‘despising’ God, who 
gave them. But more than this : he was the head of the chosen family ; on him 
devolved the blessing of Abraham, that ‘ in his seed all the families of the earth 
should be blessed ; ’ and, in despising his birthright, he put himself out of the 
sacred family, and so became a ‘ profane person.’ ’’—Smith, Old Testament His- 
tory. (2) No Place for Repentance. We do not suppose that Esau sought a 
change of heart and mind in himself, and that a careful seeking with tears, and 
yet did not find a place for it. What Esau did seek — the thing which he mani- 
festly did labor after— was a change of mind in Isaac, so that he should confer 
temporal blessings on him : which Isaac, in a degree, did ; but no change of mind 
took place in reference to the spiritual blessing. (J unkin, Commentary ; Bloom- 
field, New Testament.) 

ESHBAAL, [some Esh-Ba'al,] (Heb. Esba'al , man of Baal,) 

the fourth son of King Saul, according to the chronology of 1 Chronicles 
viii. 33 ; ix, 39. He is doubtless the same person as Ish-bosheth , (see 1 Sam. 
xxxi, 2, compared with 2 Sam. xxviii,) since it was the practice to change 
the obnoxious name of Baal into Bosheth or Besheth, as in the case of Jerub- 
besheth for Jerub-baal, and (in this very genealogy) of Merib-baal for 
Mephi-bosheth. (M’Cbntock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

ESH'BAN, (Heb. Eshban', man of consideration ,) the second-named 
of the four sons of Dishon, the Horite. Gen. xxxvi, 26 ; 1 Chron. i, 41. 

ESH'COL, (Heb. Eshkol a bunch , cluster ,) a young Amoritish 

chieftain, who, with his brothers, Aner and Mamre, being in alliance with 
Abraham, joined him in the recovery of Lot from the hands of Chedorla- 
omer and his confederates. Gen. xiv, 13, 14. B. C. about 1913. 

E'SHEK, (Heb. id ., pfcyy, oppression ,) a brother of Azel, a Benjamite, 

one of the late descendants of King Saul. He was the father of tJlam, the 
father of a large and uoted family of archers. 1 Chron. viii, 39. 

ESH'TON, (Heb. Eshton uxurious , careless.) a sen of Mehir, and 
grandson of Chelub, of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 11, 12. 

ES^I, (Gr. ’E oM,) son of Nagge (Naggai) and father of Naum, of the 
maternal ancestry of Christ after the exile. Luke iii, 25. He is probably 
the same with Elioenai, the son of Neariah, and father of Johanan. 1 Chron. 
iii, 23, 24. (See M'Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

ES'ROM, (Gr. ’Eopoy,) a Grecized form (Matt, i, 3; Luke iii, 33) of the 
name of Hezron, (q. v.,) the grandson of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 5. 

ES'THER, the Jewish maiden chosen to be queen by Ahasnerus. 

1. Name and Family. (Persian iripN, Ester'.) Esther was the new 

and probably Persian name given on her introduction to the royal harem. 
Her proper Hebrew name was Hadassah, (q. v.) As to the signification of 


ESTHER. 


161 


the name Esther, Gesenius quotes from tl ie second Targnm on Esther : 
“ She was called Esther from the name of the star Venus, which in Greek 
is Aster , (that is, aarr/p, Eng. star .”) Esther was the daughter of Abihail, a 
Benjamite and uncle of Mordecai. Esther ii, 15. Her ancestor, Kish, had been 
among the captives led away from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. 

2. Personal History. Left an orphan, Esther was brought up by her 
cousin Mordecai, who held an office, at Shuskan. in the palace. Esther ii, 
5-1. (1) Chosen Queen. Ahasuerus having divorced his wife because she 

refused to comply with his drunken commands, search was made for the 
most beautiful maiden to be her successor. Those selected were placed in 
the custody of u Hegai, keeper of the women.” The final choice among 
them remained with the king himself. That ehoice fell upon Esther, for 
“ The king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and 
favor in his sight more than all the virgins ; so that he set the royal crown 
upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti.” Chapter ii, 8-1 7. 
B. C. about 515. (2) Saves her People. Esther, iu obedience to Mordecai, 

had not made known her parentage and race. Chap. ii,. 10. But Haman, 
the Agagite, angry with Mordecai because he did not do him reverence, 
represented to the king that the Jews scattered through his empire were a 
pernicious nation. The king gave Haman full power to kill them all and 
seize their property. Chap, iii Upon being informed of this by Mordecai, 
Esther, who seemed her- 
self to be included in the 
doom of extermination, re- 
solved to plead for her 
people. She decided to 
present herself unbidden 
to the king, which was not 
according to law. Chap. 

iv, 16. She did so and, 
obtaining favor in his sight, 
made known her request 
It was that the king and 
Haman would that day at- 
tend a banquet which she 
had prepared. At the ban- 
quet the king renewed his 
willingness to grant Esther 
any request she might 
make. She extended an 
invitation to both for the 
morrow, and promised then 
to reveal her wishes. Chap. 

v. The next day Esther 
pleaded for her people, and 
denounced Haman. The 
laws of the empire would 
not allow the king to recall 

a decree once uttered ; but the Jews were authorized to stand upon their 
defense ; and this, with the known change in the intentions of the court, 
averted the worst consequences of the decree. The Jews established a 



162 


ETHAN. 


yearly feast in memory of their deliverance, called Purim, which is observed 
to this day. Chap, viii, 8, 9. B. C. 509. 

3. Character. “ The character of Esther, as she appears in the Bible, 
is that of a woman of deep pietj’’, faith, courage, patriotism, and caution, 
combined with resolution ; a dutiful daughter to her adopted father, docile 
and obedient to his counsels, and anxious to share the king’s favor with 
him for the good of the Jewish people. That she was a virtuous woman, 
and, as far as her situation made it possible, a good wife to the king, her 
continued influence over him for so long a time warrants us to infer. 
There must have been a singular grace and charm in her aspect and manners, 
since she ‘ obtained favor in the sight of all that looked upon her.’ Chap, 
ii, 15.” — M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia. 

Difficulties.— (1) Amestris, it is said, (who cannot be Esther, since she was the 
daughter of a Persian noble, Otanes,) was the real queen consort of Xerxes, from 
the beginning of his reign to the end ; and, therefore, the whole story of Esther 
being made queen, etc., is impossible. Amestris was, undoubtedly, during the 
greater part of his reign, the chief wife of Xerxes. He married her during the 
life-time of his father, and she outlived him, and held the rank of queen mother 
under his son and successor, Artaxerxes. She cannot be the Esther of Scripture ; 
but there is nothing to prevent her from being Vashti, whose disgrace may have 
been only temporary. Or, possibly, Vashti and Esther may both have been “ sec- 
ondary wives,” though the title of queen is given to them. We know far too little 
of the domestic life of Xerxes from profane sources to have any right to pronounce 
the position which Esther is made to occupy in his harem from his seventh to his 
twelfth year impossible, or even improbable. (2) A Persian king, it is said, would 
never bave invited his queen to a carousal. The Persian abhorrence of such an 
act as exhibiting the queen unveiled to a set of revelers is implied in the refusal of 
Vashti. The question of the possibility or impossibility of the thing occurring is 
merely a question of the lengths to which a Persian monarch would go in outraging 
propriety and violating established usage. (3) He could not legally, and, therefore, 
it is supposed he would not, marry a wife not belonging to one of the seven great 
Persian families. The marriage of Ahasuerus with a Jewess, even if we regard 
it as a marriage in the fullest sense, would not be more illegal or more abhorrent 
to Persian notices than Cambyses’s marriage with his full sister. It is, therefore, just 
as likely to have taken place. If, on the other hand, it was a marriage of the sec- 
ondary kind, the law with respect to the king’s wives being taken from the seven 
great families would not apply to it. (Rawlinson, Historical Illustrations of the 
Old Testament.) 

E'THAN, (Heb. Eythan ', perpetuity , strength.) 

1. One of the four persons (“ Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, and Chalcol, 
and Darda ”) who were so renowned for their sagacity that it is mentioned 
to the honor of Solomon that his wisdom excelled theirs. 1 Kings iv, 31. 
Ethan is distinguished as “ the Ezrahite ” from the others, who are called 
“ sons of Mahol,” unless the word Mahol be taken for “ sons of music, 
dancing,” etc., in which case it would apply to Ethan as well as to the oth- 
ers. In 1 Chron. ii, 6, they are all given as “ sons of Zerah.” In the title 
to the eighty-ninth Psalm an “ Ethan the Ezrahite ” is named as the author. 

2. Son of Zimmah and father of Adaiah, in the ancestry of the Levite 
Asaph. 1 Chron. vi, 42. In ver. 21 be seems to be called Joah , the father 
of Iddo. 

3. Son of Kishi, or Kushaiah, a Levite of the family of Merari. He was 
appointed one of the leaders of the temple music by David, (as singer, 
1 Chron. vi, 44, or player on cymbals, chap, xv, 17, 19.) B. C. about 1040. 
In the latter passages he is associated with Heman and Asaph, the heads 
of two other families of Levites; and, inasmuch as in other passages of 
these books (1 Chron. xxv, 1, 6) the names are given as Asaph, Heman, 


ETHBAAL— EVE. 


163 


and Jedutliun, it has been conjectured that this last and Ethan were iden- 
tical. There is at least great probability that Ethan the singer was the 
same person as Ethan the Ezrahite, (see No. 1,) whose name stands at the 
head of Psa. lxxxix, for it is a very unlikely coincidence that there should 
be two persons named Heman and Ethan so closely connected in two differ- 
ent tribes and walks of life. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

ETH'BAAL, (Heb. Ethba'al, with Baal , that is, having his fa- 

vor ,) a king of Sidon, father of Jezebel, the wife of Ahab. 1 Kings xvi, 31. 
B. C. before 918. According to Josephus, (Ant., viii, 13, 1 and 2.) Ethbaal 
is called Ithohalus by Menander, who also says that he was a priest of As- 
tarte, and, having put the king, Pheles, to death, assumed the scepter of 
Tyre and Sidon, lived sixty-eight years, and reigned thirty-two. We see 
here the reason why Jezebel, the daughter of a priest of Astarte, was so 
zealous a promoter of idolatry. 

ETH'NAN, (Heb. Ethnan priK, cl gift,) a descendant of Judah, one of 
the sons of Helah, the wife of Ashur. 1 Chron. iv, 7. 

ETH'NI, (Heb. Ethni', ’oriK, munificent ,) the son of Zerah and father 

• : v 

of Malclvah, a Levite of the family of G-ershom. 1 Chron. vi, 41. B. C. 
about 1280. 

EUBU'LiUS, (Gr. E v,8ov^vg, good in counsel ,) a Christian at Rome whose 
greeting Paul sent to Timothy during his last imprisonment. 2 Tim. iv, 21. 
A. D. 66. 

EUNI'CE, (Gr. Et> vLKij, good victory ,) the mother of Timothy and the 
wife of a Greek. Acts xvi, 1 : 2 Tim. i, 5. In both passages reference is 
made to her faith. A. D. before 66. 

EUO'DIAS, (Gr. Euoclm, a good journey.) a female member of the Church 
nt Philippi, who seems to have been at variance with another female mem- 
ber named Syntyche. A. D. 64. Paul describes them as women who had 
‘‘labored much with him in the Gospel,” and implores them to be of one 
mind. Phil, iv, 2, 3. (Kitto.) 

EU'TYCHUS, (Gr. E vrvxoc, good fortune) a young man of Troas who 
attended the preaching of Paul. The services were held in the third story 
of the house, the sermon long, lasting until midnight, and the air heated 
by the large company and the many lamps. Under these circumstances Eu- 
tyelnis was overcome with sleep and fell from the window near which he 
was silting into the court below, “and was taken up dead.” Paul went 
down, and extending himself upon the body, embraced it, like the prophets 
of old. 1 Kings xvii, 21; 2 Kings iv, 34. He then comforted his friends, 
“ Trouble not yourselves ; for his life is in him.” Before Paul departed in 
the morning they brought the young man to him alive and well. Acts xx, 
5-12. Bloomfield ( New Testament) proves that the narrative forbids us for 
a moment to entertain the view of those critics who suppose that animation 
was merely suspended. 

EVE, (Heb. mn, Chavvah', life , or living) the name given by Adam to 

the first woman, his wife. Gen. iii, 20. B. C. 4004. It is supposed that she 
was created on the sixth day, after Adam had reviewed the animals. The 

11 


164 


EYI— EZEKIEL. 


naming of the animals led to this result, that there was not found a help- 
meet for man. Then God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and 
took one of his ribs and fashioned it into a woman, and brought her unto 
Adam. Gen. ii, 18-22. Through the subtlety of the serpent, Eve was be- 
guiled into a violation of the one commandment imposed upon her and 
Adam. She took of the fruit of the forbidden tree and gave to her hus- 
band. Her punishment was an increase of sorrow and pregnancy. Chap, iii, 16. 
“ That the woman should bear children was the original will of God ; but 
it was a punishment that henceforth she was to bear them in sorrow, that 
is, with pains which threaten her own life as well as that of the child.” 
— Delitzsch. Three sons of Eve are named,. Cain, (chap, iv, 1,) Abel, 
(ver. 2,) and Seth, (chap, v, 3,) though the fact of other children is recorded. 
Chap, v, 4. 

E'VI, (Heb. 'IX, desire , or dwelling ,) one of the five kings of the Midian- 

ltes slain by the Israelites in the war arising out of the idolatry of Baal- 
peor, induced by the suggestion of Balaam, (Num. xxxi, 8,) and whose lands 
were afterward allotted to Reuben. Josh, xiii, 21. B. C. 1552. 

E'VIL-MER'ODACH, (Heb. Evil' Merodak', 7]“nC> the son and 

successor of Nebuchadnezzar. On his accession to the throne he released 
the captive king of Judah, Jehoiachin, from prison, after thirty-seven years 
of incarceration, treated him with kindness and distinction, and set his 
throne above the thrones of the other conquered kings who were detained 
at Babylon. 2 Kings xxv, 27-30 ; Jer. Iii, 31-34. He appears to have 
reigned two years, (B. C. 562-560,) and was murdered by Neriglissar, a 
Babylonian noble married to his sister, who then seized the crown. 

E'ZAR, a less correct mode of Anglicising (1 Chron. i, 38) the name 
Ezer, (q. v.) 

EZ'BAI, (Heb. Ezbay ', signifying uncertain,) the father of Naarai, 

one of David’s mighty men. 1 Chron. xi, 37. B. C. before 1047. 

EZ'BON, (Heb. Etsbon ', J3VX, perhaps working.) 

1. The fourth son of the patriarch Gad, (Gen. xlvi, 16,) called also (Num. 
xxvi, 16) Ozni. B. C. 1452. 

2. The first-named of the sons of Bela, the son of Benjamin. 1 Chron. 
vii, 7. 

EZEKFAS, a Grecized form (Matt, i, 9, 10) of the name of King Heze- 

KIAH, (q. V.) 

EZETIXEL. One of the four greater prophets. 1. Name and Family. 
(Heb. Yechezkel', i>Nj}T!T, whom God will strengthen, or God will prevail,) the 
son of a priest named Buzi. 

2. Personal History. Ezekiel was taken captive in the captivity of 
Jehoiachin, eleven years before the destruction of Jerusalem. 2 Kings xxiv, 
12-15. B. C. 598. He was a member of a community of Jewish exiles 
who settled on the banks of the Chebar, a “ river” or stream of Babylonia. 
It was by this river, “in the land of the Chaldeans,” that God’s message 
first reached him. Ezek. i, 3. His call took place “in the fifth year of 
King Jehoiachin’s captivity, (B. C. 594, chap, i, 2,) in the thirtieth year, in 


EZER — EZRA. 


165 


the fourth month.” It now seems generally agreed that it was the thirtieth 
year from the new era of Nabopolassar, father of Nebuchadnezzar, who be- 
gan to reign B. C. 625. (Smith.) We learn from an incidental allusion 
(chap, xxiv, 18) — the only reference which he makes to his personal history 
— that he was married and had a house (chap, viii, 1) iu his place of exile, 
and lost his wife by a suddeu and unforeseen stroke. He lived in the high- 
est consideration among his companions in exile, and their elders consulted 
him on all occasions. Chap, viii, 1 ; xi, 25 ; xiv, 1 ; xx, 1, etc. The last 
date he mentions is the 27 th year of the captivity, (chap, xxix, 17,) so that 
his mission extended over twenty-two years. He is said to have been 
murdered in Babylon by some Jewish prince whom he had convicted of 
idolatry, and to have been buried in the tomb of Shem and Arphaxad, on 
the banks of the Euphrates. 

3. Character. He is distinguished by his firm and inflexible energy of 
will and character ; and we also observe a devoted adherence to the rites 
and ceremonies of his national religion. Ezekiel is no cosmopolite, but dis- 
plays every- where the peculiar tendencies of a Hebrew educated under Le- 
vitical training. The priestly bias is always visible. We may also note in 
Ezekiel the absorbing recognition of his high calling, which enabled him 
cheerfully to endure any privation or misery, if thereb)' - he could give any 
warning or lesson to his people, (chap, iv; xxiv, 15, 16, etc.,) whom he so 
ardently loved. Chap, ix, 8 ; xi, 13. 

E'ZER. 

1. (Heb. E'tser, treasure,) one of the sons of Seir, and native princes 

of Mount Hor, (Gen. xxxvi, 21, 27, 30 ; 1 Chron. i, 42, 38,) in which last 
verse the name is Anglicized “ Ezar.” B. C. about 1853. 

(2-6. Heb. *1$, or ity, help.) 

2. The father of Hushah, one of the posterity of Hur, of the tribe of 
Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 4. 

3. A son (or descendant) of Ephraim, who, with Elead, was slain by the 
aboriginal inhabitants of Gath “ because they came down to take away their 
cattle.” 1 Chron. vii, 21. B. C. about 1444. 

4. The first-named of the Gadite champions who went to David at Zik- 
lag. 1 Chron. xii, 9. B. C. about 1058. 

5. The son of Jeshua, the ruler of Mizpah, who repaired part of the city 
wall near the armory. Neh. iii, 19. B. C. 445. 

6. One of the priests who assisted in the dedication of the walls of Jeru- 
salem under Nehemiah. Neh. xii, 42. B. C. 445. 

EZ'RA, (Heb. Ezra', help.) j 

1. A descendant of Judah, the father of several sons. His own parent- | 
age is not given. 1 Chron. iv, 17. 

2. The priest who led the second expedition of Jews back from the 
Babylonian exile into Palestine, and the author of the book bearing his 
name. (See the last four chapters, in which he speaks in the first person.) 

1 . Family. Ezra was a lineal descendant from Phineas, the grandson 
of Aaron, (Ezra vii, 1-5.) being the son of Seraiah, who was the grandson 
of Hilkiali, high-priest in the reign of Josiah. He is described as “ a ready 
scribe in the law of Moses,” (ver. 6;) “a scribe of the words of the com- 


166 


EZRA. 


mandments of the Lord, and of his statutes to Israel," (ver. 11 ;) “ Ezra the 
priest, a scribe of the law of the God of heaven." Ver. 12. 

2. Personal History. (1) Appointed Leader. Living at Babylon, he 
gained the favor of Artaxerxes, and obtained from him a commission to go 
up to Jerusalem. Ezra vii, 8, sq. B. C. about 457. The king’s commission 
Jnvited all the Israelites and priests and Levites in the whole empire, who 
so wished, to go with Ezra. Chap, vii, 13. Of these a list amounting to 
1,754 is given in Ezra viii; and these also, doubtless, form a part of the 
full list of the returned captives contained in Nell, vii, and in duplicate in 
Ezra ii. Ezra was allowed to take with him a large free-will offering of 
gold and silver, and silver vessels, contributed by the Jews, and by the 
king himself and his counselors. He was also empowered to draw upon 
the king’s treasures beyond the river for any further supplies he might 
require ; and all priests, Levites, and other ministers of the temple were 
exempted from taxation. Ezra received authority to appoint magistrates 
and judges in Judea, with power of life and death over all offenders. 
Ezra vii. (2) Preparations. Ezra assembled the Jews who accompanied 
him on the banks of the- river Ahava, where they halted three days in tents. 
Finding none of the sons of Levi, he sent for them and then proclaimed a 
fast, praying God for divine direction and safe conduct. Ezra next committed 
the care of the treasures with him to twelve of the chief priests and ten of 
their brethren, with a charge to deliver them safely in the house of the Lord 
at Jerusalem. (3) At Jerusalem. The company arrived at Jerusalem upon 
the first day of the fifth mouth, after a journey of about four months. Ezra 
vii, 9. B. C. about 457. Three days after their arrival the treasures were 
weighed and delivered to the proper custodians, burnt sacrifices were offered 
by the returned exiles, and the king’s commissions were delivered to vice- 
roys and governors. Ezra viii. On arriving at Jerusalem Ezra found, to his 
great distress, that the people had paid no regard to the law which prohib- 
ited their marriage with idolaters. His first care was to impress them with 
the enormity of their sin. The example of his public muurning and prayer 
led some of the chief persons to acknowledge their transgression. At their 
suggestion the whole people were summoned to Jerusalem on penalty of 
forfeiture and expulsion from the congregation. They assembled on the 
twentieth day of the ninth month, amid a great storm of rain, and, having 
confessed their sin, they proceeded to the remedy with order and delibera- 
tion. All the strange wives were put away, including even those who had 
borne children, by the beginning of the new year. Chaps, ix, x. At this 
point the account of Ezra’s proceedings ends abruptly with the book that 
bears his name, and we hear nothing more of him till, thirteen years after- 
ward, we find him (4) Again at Jerusalem. It is conjectured by some that 
Ezra remained governor until superseded by Nehemiah, but as his commis- 
sion was of a temporary nature, and as there is no trace whatever of his 
presence in Jerusalem between the eighth and twentieth year of Artaxerxes, 
it seems probable that, obeying his instructions, he returned to Babylon. 
After the completion of the wall he appears again in Jerusalem. The 
functions he executed under Nehemiah’s government were purely of a 
priestly and ecclesiastical character, such as reading and interpreting the 
law of Moses to the people, praying in the congregation, assisting at the 
dedication of the wall, and promoting the religious reformation effected by 
Nehemiah. Neh. viii, 9 ; xii, 26. In the sealing of the covenant, described in 


EZRI — FELIX. 


167 


Neh. x, Ezra perhaps sealed under the patronymic Seraiah or Azariah. 
Ver. 2. As Ezra is not mentioned after Nehemiah’s departure for Babylon 
in the thirty-second year 
of Artaxerxes, and as every 
tiling (ell into confusion 
during Nehemiah’s ab- 
sence, (Neh. xiii,) it is not 
unlikely that Ezra may 
have again returned to 
Babylon before that year. 

3. Character. Ezra 
had a profound love for 
the word of God, and 
“ prepared his heart to 
seek the law of the Lord, 
and to do it, and to teach 
in Israel statutes and judg- 
ments.” Ezra vii, 10. He 
was a man of excellent 
judgment, (chap, vii, 25, 

26.) of large conscientious- 
ness, (chap, ix, 3, sq .,) 
which led him to deeply 
deplore sin and to stren- 
uously oppose it. So great 
was his sense of depend- 
ence upon God that every 
step he took was marked 
by some devout acknowledgment of the help of God, “ according to the 
good hand of his God upon him.” Ezra vii, 6, 9, 27, 28: viii, 22, 31. 

3. The head of one of the twenty-two courses of priests which returned 
from captivity with Zerubbabel and Jeshua. Heh. xii, 1. B. C. 536. The 
same name appears in ver. 13, where it is stated that his son, Meshullam, 
was chief of his family in the time of the high-priest Joiakim, (compare 
ver. 12 ;) also in ver. 33, as one of the chief Israelites who formed the first 
division that made the circuit of the walls of Jerusalem when rebuilt. 
B. C. 445. It is uncertain, however, whether reference is made to the same 
person or not. 

EZ'RI, (Heb. Ezri ', helpful ,) son of Chelub, superintendent for 

King David of those “ who did the work of the field for tillage of the 
ground.” 1 Chron. xxvii, 26. B. C. about 1015. 



REPUTED TOMB OF EZRA. 


FE'LIX, (Gr. happy,) the Roman procurator before whom Paul 

was arraigned. Acts xxiv. (1) Elevation and Crimes. He was originally 
a slave, and, for some unknown service, was manumitted by Claudius 
Caesar. He was appointed by this emperor procurator of Judea on the 
banishment of Yentidius Cumanus, probably A. D. 53. Suetonius speaks 
of the military honors which the emperor honored him with, and specifies 
his appointment as governor of the province of Judea, adding an innuendo 


168 


FELIX. 


which loses nothing: by its brevity, namely, that he was the husband of 
three queens, or royal ladies, (“ trium reginarum maritum .”) Tacitus, in his 
History, declares tliat, during: his governorship in Judea, he indulged in all 
kinds of cruelty and lust, exercising regal power with the disposition of a 
slave; and in his Annals (xi, 54) he represents Felix as considering 
himself licensed to commit any crime, relying on the influence which he 
possessed at court. Having a grudge against Jonathan, the high-priest, 
who had expostulated with him on his misrule, he made use of Doras, an 
intimate friend of Jonathan, in order to get him assassinated by a gang of 
villains, who joined the crowds that were going up to the temple worship, 
a crime which led subsequently to countless evils by the encouragement 
which it gave to the Sicarii, or leagued assassins of the day, to whose ex- 
cesses Josephus ascribes, under Providence, the overthrow of the Jewish 
state. While in office he became enamored of Drusilla, a daughter of King 
Herod Agrippa, who was married to Azizus. king of Emesa, and, through 
the influence of Simon, a magician, prevailed upon her to consent to a union 
with him. With this adulteress Felix was seated when Paul reasoned be- 
fore him. Acts xxiv, ‘25. Another Drusilla is mentioned by Tacitus as 
being the {first) wife of Felix. (2) Hears Paul. Paul, having been ar- 
rested at Jerusalem, was ^sent by Claudius Lysias to Felix at Caesarea, 
(Acts xxiii, 23, sq.,) where he was confined in Herod’s judgment-hall till 
his accusers came. After five days they arrived, headed by Ananias, the 
higli-priest. Their case was managed by Tertullus, who, to conciliate Fe- 
lix, expressed gratitude on the part of the Jews, “ Seeing that by thee we 
enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this na- 
tion by thy providence.” Chap, xxiv, 1, 2. He then proceeded to accuse 
Paul, charging him, first, with sedition ; secondly, with being ‘‘a ringleader 
of the sect of the Nazarenes; and, thirdly, with an attempt to profane the 
temple at Jerusalem. Vers. 5, 6. The evident purpose was to persuade Fe- 
lix to give up the apostle to the Jewish courts, in which case his assassina- 
tion would have been easily accomplished Felix now gave the prisoner 
permission to speak, and the apostle, after briefly expressing his satisfaction 
that lie had to plead his cause before one so well acquainted with Jewish 
customs, refuted Tertullus step by step. Felix deferred inquiry into the 
case for the present. “ When Lysias comes down,” he said, *• I will know 
the uttermost of this matter.” Meanwhile lie placed him under the charge 
of the centurion who had brought him to Caesarea. Chap, xxiv, 10-23. 
Some days after, Felix came into the audience-chamber with his wife Dru- 
silla, and the prisoner was brought before them. As a faithful preacher lie 
spoke to the Roman libertine and the profligate Jewish princess. As he 
-reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, “ Felix 
trembled.” But still nothing is decided, Felix saying, “ Go thy way lor 
this time; when 1 have a convenient season I will call for thee.” We are 
informed why the governor shut his ears to conviction, and even neglected 
his official duty and kept his prisoner in cruel suspense: “ He hoped also 
that money should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him.” 
Vers. 24-26. Hence he frequently sent for Paul, and had many conversa- 
tions with him. But his hopes were unfulfilled, and he retained the apostle 
a prisoner for two years. Ver. 27. (3) Summoned to Rome. Meantime the 

political state of Judea grew more embarrassing. It was during the two 
years of Paul’s imprisonment that disturbances took place in the streets of 


FESTUS— GAAL. 


169 


Caesarea. Tn the end Felix was summoned to Rome, and the Jews followed 
liim with their accusations. Thus it was that he was anxious “to show the 
Jews a pleasure,” and “left Paul bound.” Ver. 27. At Rome he was saved 
from suffering the penalty due to his atrocities by the influence of his 
brother Pallas. 

2. Character. Felix was of a low, cruel, voluptuous, covetous dispo- 
sition; indulging in lust, not above taking bribe from his prisoners, over- 
bearing toward those in his power, fawning upon Ms superiors — a time- 
server. He was one of those characters whieli are easily affected by feel- 
ings, but always drawn away from right action by the overpowering motive 
of self-interest. 

FES'TUS, ( festal,) Porcius, (Gr. Hopiaoz <f ^crrof,) the successor of Felix 
as the Roman governor of Judea, appointed by the emperor Nero, probably 
iu the autumn of A. D. GO. (Conybeare and Howson.) Three days after his 
arrival at Caesarea (the political metropolis) lie went up to Jerusalem. Here 
he was met by “ the high-priest and the chief of the Jews, who informed 
him against Paul.” They requested, as a favor, thart; he would allow Paul 
to be brought up to Jerusalem, the plea, doubtless, being that he should be 
tried before the Sanhedrin. The real purpose, however, was to kill him 
while on the way. Festus refused to comply, and told them that they must 
meet the accused face to face at Caesarea. After eight or ten days Paul was 
summoned before Festus, and asked whether lie was willing to go to Jeru- 
salem ; but the apostle, knowing full well the danger that lurked in this 
proposal, and conscious of the rights he possessed as a Roman citizen, re- 
fused to accede, and replied boldly to Festus, concluding with, “ I appeal 
unto Caesar.*’ About this time Herod Agrippa, with his sister Berenice, 
came on a complimentary visit to Festus, and was consulted by the governor. 
The result was an interview between the three and Paul, iu which the lat- 
ter delivered a famous discourse and was pronounced innocent. But hav- 
ing appealed to Caesar, Festus sent him to Rome. Acts xxv, xxvL A few 
other facts are mentioned concerning Festus. Judea was in the same dis- 
turbed state that it had been in under the procuratorslnp of Felix. He took 
part with Agrippa against the priests on the question of a high wall built by 
the latter to obstruct the view of the temple from Agrippa’s house. But 
he allowed an appeal to Nero, who decided in favor of the Jews. Festus 
probably died in the summer of A. D. 62. 

FORTUNATUS, (Gr. ^oprnvvarvc , fortunate ,) a disciple of Corinth, of 
Roman birth or origin, as his name indicates, who visited Paul at Ephesus, 
and returned, along with Stephanas and Achaicus, in charge of that apostle’s 
First Epistle to the Corinthian Church. 1 Cor. xvi, 17. “The household 
of Stephanas” is mentioned, in chap, i, 16, as having been baptized by Paul 
himself: perhaps Fortunatus and Achaicus may have been members of that 
household. There is a Fortunatus mentioned at the end of Clement’s First 
Epistle to the Corinthians, who was possibly the same person. (M Clintock 
and Strong, Cyclopcedia.) 


GA'AXi, (Heb. id., *5p2, loathing,) the son of Ebed. Judg. ix, 26, sq. He 

was probably a freebooter, and was welcomed to Shechem because the She- 
chemites hoped that he would be able to render them good service in their 


170 


GABBAI— GAD. 


revolt from Abimelech. At the festival at which the Sheehemitcs offerod 
the first-fruits of their vintage in the temple of Baal, Gaal strove to kindle 
their wrath against the absent Abimelech. His rebellious speech was re- 
ported to Abimelech by the town-prefect, Zebul. On receiving this intelli- 
gence Abimelech rose up during the night with the people that were with 
him, and placed four companies in ambush against Sliechem. When Gaal 
went out in the morning upon some enterprise, and stood before the city 
gate, Abimelech rose up with his army out of the ambush. Gaal fled into 
the city, but was thrust out by Zebul, and we hear of him no more. B. 0. 
about 1206. 

GAB'BAI, (Heb. Gdbbay'. ' 33 , tax-gatherer ,) a chief of the tribe of Ben- 
jamin, who settled in Jerusalem after the captivity. Nell. xi, 8. B. C. ante 
445. 

GAD, (Heb. id., H2, fortune .) 

1. 1. Name and Family. Jacob's seventh son, the first-born of Zil- 
pah, Leah’s maid, and whole brother to Asher. Gen. xxx, 11-13 ; xlvi, 16, 18. 
B. C. 1748. 

2. Personal History. Of the life of the individual Gad nothing is pre- 
served, and therefore we must proceed immediately to speak of, 

3. The Tribe of Gad. (1) Numbers. At the time of the descent into 

Egypt seven sons are ascribed to him, (Gen. xlvi, 16,) remarkable from the 
fact that a majority of their names have plural terminations, as if thoso of 
families rather than persons. (Smith.) At the first census Gad had 45,650 
adult males, ranking eighth ; and at the second census, 40,500, ranking Unth. 
(2) Position. They were attached to the second division of the Israelitish 
host, following the standard of Reuben, and camping on the south of the 
tabernacle, their chief being Eliasaph, the son of Deuel, or Reuel. Num. 
i, 14; ii, 10-16. (3) Territory. In common with Reuben, Gad requested 

Moses to give them their portion on the east of Jordan, because they had 
“a great multitude of cattle.” Upon being assured that they would assist 
their brethren in the conquest of Canaan, Moses granted them their re- 
quest. The country allotted to Gad appears, speaking roughly, to have 
lain chiefly about the center of the land east of Jordan. (4) Subsequent 
History. The Gadites were a warlike race, and they bravely aided their 
brethren in the conquest of Canaan. Josh, iv, 12 ; xxii, 1-4. Surrounded 
by the Ammonites, Midianites, and many other hostile tribes, they yet nobly 
defended their country. One of their greatest victories was that gained 
over the descendants of Ishmael, the tribes of Jetnr, Nepliish, and Nodab, 
from whom they took enormous booty. I Chron. v, 18-22. The seat of 
Ish-bosheth’s sovereignty was established in this territory, for Abner 
brought him to Mahanaim, and there he reigned, (2 Sam. ii, 8,) and there I 10 
was assassinated. Many, however, of the Gadite chiefs had joined David 
while in the hold, (1 Chron. xii, 8 ;) and when, years later, he was obliged 
to flee across the Jordan, he found a welcome and help. 2 Sam. xvii, 24, 
27-29. In the division of the kingdom, Gad, of course, fell to the northern 
state, and many of the wars between Syria and Israel must have ravaged 
its territory. 2 Kings x, 33. At last, for the sins of the people, Tiglath- 
pileser carried the Gadites and the neighboring tribes away captive into 
Assyria. 2 Kings xv, 29 ; 1 Chron. v, 26. 


GADDI— GALAL. 


171 


2. “ Tlio Beer,” or “the kind’s seer,” that is, David’s, (2 Sam. xxiv, 11 ; 
] Chron. xxi, 9; xxix. 29; 2 Chron. xxix, 25,) was a prophet who ap- 
pears to have joined David when in “ the hold,” and at whose advice he 
quitted it for the forest of Hareth. 1 Sam. xxii, 5. B. 0. about 10G2. We 
do not hoar of him again until he re-appears in connection with the punish- 
ment inflicted for the numbering of the people. 2 Sam. xxiv, 11-19 : 1 Chron. 
xxi, 9-19. B. C. 101*7. But he was evidently attached lo the royal estab- 
lishment at Jerusalem, for he wrote a book of the Acts of David, (1 Chron. 
xxix, 29,) and also assisted in settling the arrangements for the musical 
service of the “house of the Lord.” 2 Chron. xxix, 25. 

GAD'DI, (Heb. Gaddi', '^3, fortunate ,) son of Susi, of the tribe of Ma- 

nasseh, sent by Moses to represent that tribe among the twelve “ spies ” on 
their exploring tour through Canaan. Num. xiii, 11. B. C. 1490. 

GAD'DIEL, (Heb. Gaddiel ', fortune [that is, sent ] of God,) son 

of Sodi, of the tribe of Zebulun. One of the twelve “ spies ” sent by Moses 
to explore Canaan. Nura. xiii, 10. B. C. 1490. 

GA'DI, (Heb. Gadi ', H3, a Gadite ,) the father of the usurper Menahem, 

who went tip from Tirzah, and came to Samaria and slew Shallum, king of 
Israel, (2 Kings xv, 14,) and reigned ten years over Israel. Yer. 17. B. C. 
772. 

GA'HAM, (Heb. Gach'am, DH3, to burn,) one of the sons of Nahor 

(Abraham’s brother) by his concubine Reuraah. Gen. xxii, 24. B. C. about 
1872. 

GA'HAR, (Heb. Gach'ar , *in3, lurldng-place ,) one of the chief Nethi- 

nim whose descendants returned with Zerubbabel from the captivity to Je- 
rusalem. Ezra ii, 47 ; Neh. vii, 49. B. C. before 536. 

GA'IUS, (Gr. Tdioc, from Latin Caius.) 

1. A Macedonian who accompanied Paul in some of his journeys, and 
was seized by the populace at Ephesus. Acts xix, 29. A. D. about 54. 

2. A man of Derbe, who accompanied Paul on his return from Macedonia 
into Asia, probably to Jerusalem. Acts xx, 4. 

3. An inhabitant of Corinth, the host of Paul, and in whose house the 
Christians were accustomed to assemble. Rom. xvi, 23. He was baptized 
by Paul. 1 Cor. i, 14. 

4. The person to whom John’s third epistle is addressed. “ He was prob- 
ably a convert of St. John, (ver. 4,) and a layman of wealth and distinction in 
some city near Ephesus. A. D. after 90. The epistle was written for the 
purpose of commending to the kindness and hospitality of Gaius some 
Christians who were strangers in the place where lie lived.” — Smith. 

GA'LAL, (Heb. Galal', ^2, perhaps weighty ,) the name of two Levites 
after the ex le. 

1. One of those who dwelt in the villages of the Netophathites and served 
at Jerusalem. D Chron. ix. 15. B. C. about 536. 

2. A descendant of Jeduthun, and father of Shemaiah, or Shammua. 
1 Chron. ix, 16; Nell, xi, 17. B. C. before 445. 


172 


GAMALIEL — GASH MIT. 


GAMA'LIEL, (Heb. GamlieV, reward of God.) 

L Son of Pedahznr, and the captain of the tribe of Manasseh who was 
appointed to assist Moses in numbering the people at Sinai. Nuin. i, 10 ; 
ii, 20. He made an offering, as tribe-prince, at the dedication of the altar, 
(chap, vii, 54,) and was chief of his tribe at starting on the march through 
the wilderness. Chap, x, 23. B. C. 1490. 

2. The grandson of the great Hillel, and himself a Pharisee and celebrated 
doctor of the law. His learning was so eminent, and his character so re- 
vered. that he is one of the seven who alone among Jewish doctors have 
been honored with the title of “ Rabban.” He was called the “ Beauty of 
the Law,” and it is a saying of the Talmud that “ since Rabban Gamaliel 
died the glory of the law has ceased.” He was a Pharisee, but anecdotes 
are told of him which show that he was not trammeled by the narrow big- 
otry of the sect. He rose above the prejudices of his party. Candor and 
wisdom seem to have been the features of his character, and this agrees 
with what we read of him in the Acts of the Apostles, that he was “had in 
reputation of all the people.” (Conybeare and Howson, Life and Epidles of 
St. Paul.) When the apostles were brought before the Sanhedrin, and enraged 
the couneil by their courage and steadfastness, the latter sought to Slav 
-them. But this rash proposal was checked by Gamaliel, who, having di- 
rected the apostles to withdraw, thus addressed the council: “Ye men of 
Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these 
men. . . . Refrain from these men, and let them alone : for if this counsel 
or this work be of men, it will come to nought: but if it be of God, ye can- 
not overthrow it.” Acts v, 34-39. His counsel prevailed, and the apostles 
were dismissed with a beating. We learn from Acts xxii, 3, that he was 
the preceptor of the apostle Paul. Ecclesiastical tradition makes him be- 
come a Christian, and be baptized by Peter and Paul, together with his s<>n 
Gamaliel, and with Nicodemus. The Clementine Recognitions (i, 65) state 
that he was secretly a Christian at this time. But these notices are alto- 
gether irreconcilable with the esteem and respect in which he was held 
even in after times by the Jewish Rabbins. The interference of Gamaliel 
in behalf of the apostles does not prove that he secretly approved of their 
doctrine. He was a dispassionate judge, and reasoned in that affair with 
the tact of worldly wisdom and experience, urging that religious opinions 
usually gain strength by opposition and persecution, (v, 35, 37,) while, if 
not noticed, they are sure not to leave any lasting impression on the minds 
cm the people if devoid of truth, (ver. 38,) arid that it is vain to contend 
against them if true. Ver. 39. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopcedia.) 

GA'MUL, (Heb. GamuV, weaned,) the chief of the twenty-second 

course of priests, among whom the services of the sanctuary were distrib- 
uted by lot in the time of David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 17. B. C. 1015. 

GA'REB, (Heb. Gareb', scabby,) an Ithrite, that is, a descendant of 

Jethro, or Jetlier, and one of David’s mighty men. 2 Sam. xxiii, 38; 
1 Chron. xi, 40. B. C. 1047. 

GASH'MU, (Heb. Gashmu ', } probably a prolonged form (Yeh. 
vi, 6) of the name Geshem, (q. v.) 


GATAM — GEDALIAH. 


173 


GA'TAM, (Heb. Gatam ', Dny2, puny ,) the fourth-named of the sons of 

Eliphaz, the son of Esau, and founder of an Edomitish tribe. Gen. xxxvi, 
11, 16; 1 Chron. i, 36. B. C. about 1740. 

GA'ZEZ, (Heb. Gazezf, TT3, shearer.) 

1. A “son” of Caleb (son of Hezron, son of Judah) by his concubine 
Ephah. 1 Chron. ii, 46. B. C. about 1470. 

2. A grandson of the same Caleb, through his son Haran. 1 Chron. ii, 46. 
B. C. after 1470. 

GAZ'ZAM, (Heb. Gazzam D}2, devouring,) the progenitor of one of the 

families of Nethinim that returned from the captivity with Zerubbabel. 
Ezra ii, 48 ; Neh. vii, 51. B. C. before 536. 

GE'BER, (Heb. id., "Q2, a man , so called from his strength,) the son of 

Uri, and one of Solomon’s purveyors, having jurisdiction over Gilead. 1 Kings 
iv, 19. His son (probably) had charge of Ramoth-gilead. Ver. 13. B. C. 
1014. 

GEDALI'AH, (Heb. Gedalyah', n£“0, made great by Jehovah.) 

1. The son and second assistant of Jeduthun in the Levitical choir of 
the temple in the time of David. 1 Chron. xxv, 3, 9. B. C. about 1015. 

2. A descendant of Jesliua, and one of the priests who divorced their Gen- 
tile wives after the Babylonish captivity. Ezra x, 18. B. C. 456. 

3. The son of Pashur, and one of the Jewish princes who, hearing a proph- 
ecy of Jeremiah, conspired to accuse aud imprison the prophet. Jeremiah 
xxxviii, 1, sq. B. C. 589. 

4. The son of Ahikam, (Jeremiah’s protector, Jer. xxvi, 24,) and grand- 
sou of Shaphau. After the destruction of the temple, B. C. 588. Nebuchad- 
nezzar departed from Judea, leaving Gedaliah as governor. He was sta- 
tioned, with a Chaldean guard, at Mizpah. Gedaliah had inherited his fa- 
ther’s respect for Jeremiah, (Jer. xl, 5, sq.,) and was, moreover, enjoined by 
Nebuzar-adan to look after his safety and welfare. Chap, xxxix, 11-14. 
Having established his government at Mizpah, the inhabitants, who had Hed 
at the advance of the Chaldean armies, or when the troops of Zedekiali 
were dispersed in the plains of Jericho, quitting their retreats, began to 
gather around him. Gedaliah advised submission and quietness, promising 
them, on this condition, the undisturbed enjoyment of their possessions. 
The labors of the field were resumed, and they “ gathered wine and sum- 
mer fruits very much.” Chap, xl, 12. Jeremiah joined Gedaliah; and 
Mizpah became the resort of Jews from various quarters, (Jer. xl, 6, 1 1.) 
many of whom, as might be expected at the end of a long war, were in a 
demoralized state, unrestrained by religion, patriotism, or prudence. The 
wise, gentle, and prosperous reign of Gedaliah did not secure him from the 
foreign jealousy of Baalis, king of Ammon, and the domestic ambition of 
Ishmael, a member of the royal family of Judah. (Josephus, Ant. x, 9. 3.) 
The latter came to Mizpah with a secret purpose of destroying Gedaliah. 
Gedaliah, generously refusing to believe a friendly warning which he re- 
ceived of the intended treachery, was murdered, with his Jewish and 
Chaldean followers, two months after his appointment. After his death 
the Jews, anticipating the resentment of the king of Babylon, gave way to 


174 


GEDEON — GEMARIAH. 


despair. Many, forcing Jeremiah to accompany them, fled to Egypt, under 
Jolianan. 2 Kings xxv, 22-26; Jer. xl, 13; xli, 18. 

GED'EON, (Gr. T edeuv, the Grecized form of Gideon,) the judge Gid- 
eon, (q. v.,) thus Anglicized in Heb. xi, 32. 

GEDOR, (Heb. Gedor ', in2, a wall,) a chief of the Benjamites resident 

at Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 31 ; ix, 37. B. C. before 536. The name 
given in 1 Chron. iv, 4, 18, is probably of a place. (M’Clintock and Strong.) 

GEHA'ZI, (Heb. Geychazi', * , TIT2, valley of vision ,) the servant of Elisha. 

The first mention of him is his reminding his master of the best mode of 
rewarding the kindness of the Shunammitess. 2 Kings iv, 14. B. C. 895. 
He was present when she told the prophet of her son’s death, and was 
sent by Elisha to lay his staff upon the face of the child, which lie did 
without effect. Chap, iv, 25-36. The most remarkable incident in his 
career is that which caused his ruin. When Elisha declined the rich gifts 
of Naaman, Gehazi coveted at least a portion of them. He therefore ran 
after the retiring chariots, and requested, in his master’s name, a portion of 
the gifts, on the pretense that visitors had arrived for whom he was unable 
to provide. He asked a talent of silver and two dresses; and the grateful 
Syrian made him take two talents instead of one. Having hid the spoil, he 
apipeared before Elisha, who asked him where he had been, and on his an- 
swering, “ Thy servant went no whither,” the prophet denounced his crime, 
and told him that the leprosy of Naaman should cleave to him and to his 
seed forever. u And he went out from his presence, a leper as white as 
snow.” 2 K : ngs v, 20-27. We afterward find Gehazi recounting to 
King Joram the great deeds of Elisha, and, in the providence of God, it 
happened that while he was speaking of the restoration of the child of the 
Slninammite woman she, with her son, appeared before the king to claim her 
house and lands, of which she had been despoiled during the recent famine. 
Struck by the coincidence, the king immediately granted her request. 
2 Kings viii, 1-6. B. C. 885. 

Difficulties.— Gehazi made a leper. The punishment inflicted on Gehazi, 
though Severe, cannot justly be reckoned too hard for the occasion. “ There was 
a great complication of wickedness in his conduct. He first arrogated to himself a 
superior discernment to that of the Lord’s prophet; then he falsely employed the 
name of that prophet for apurpose which the prophet himself had expressly and most 
emphatically repudiated ; further, as an excuse for aiming at such a purpose, he 
invented a plea of charity, which had no existence but in his own imagination ; 
and, finally, on being interrogated by Elisha after his return, he endeavored to 
disguise his procedure by a lie. Such accumulated guilt obviously deserved some 
palpable token of the divine displeasure.”— M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopwdia. 

GEMA'LLI, (Heb, Gemalli ', camel-driver ,) the father of Ammiel, 

which latter was the Danite representative among those who explored the 
land of Canaan. Num. xiii, 12. B. C. 1490. 

GEMARFAH, (Heb. Gemaryah', rtHttS, whom Jehovah has made per- 
fect.) T : : 

1. The son of Hilkiah, who, with Elasah, son of Shaphan, was sent to 
Babylon as embassadors by King Zedekiah. They also took charge of a 
letter from Jeremiah to the Jewish captives at Babylon, advising them to 
settle peaceably in the laud of captivity, promising deliverance after seventy 


GENUBATH— GERSHOM. 175 

years, and warning them against false prophets. Jer. xxix, 3, sq. B. 0. 
about 599. 

2. The son of Shaphan, one of the nobles of Judah, and a scribe of the 
temple in the time of Jehoiakim. Baruch read aloud the prophecies of 
Jeremiah to the people at the official chamber of Gemariah, (or from a win- 
dow in it,) which was attached to the new gate of the temple built by King 
Jotham. Jer. xxxvi, 10 ; compare 2 Kings xv, 35. Gemariah’s son, Micha- 
iah, having reported this to his father, Baruch was invited to repeat the 
reading, at the scribe’s chamber in the palace, before Gemariah and others, 
who gave an account of the matter to the king. Jer. xxxvi, 11-20. He, 
with the others, heard the divine message with fear ; though Gemariah and 
two others besought the king not to destroy the roll. Jer. xxxvi, 21-25. 
B. C. about 606. 

GENTTBATH, (Heb. Genubath', J"D33, perhaps theft,) the son of Hadad, 

of the Edomitish royal family, by the sister of Tahpenes, the queen of 
Egypt, (in the time of DaviC?) and* reared in Pharaoh’s household. 1 Kings 
xi, 20. He was born (B. C. about 1040) in the palace of Pharaoh, and weaned 
by the queen herself, and was on the same footing as the sons of the king. 

GE'RA, (Heb. Gera', J03i a grain,) the name of at least three Benjamites. 

1. The son of Bela and grandson of Benjamin, (1 Chron. viii, 3;) prob- 
ably the same with the one mentioned (with some confusion) in verses 
5, 7, unless one of these be identical with No. 2. In Gen. xlvi, 21, he is 
given as the son of Benjamin, and there appears among the descendants 
of Jacob, at the time of his removal to Egypt. B. C. 1706. In 1 Chron. 
vii, 7, Uzzi occupies the same position as Gera elsewhere in the genealogy. 

2. The father (or ancestor) of Ehud the judge. Judg. lii, 15. B. C. be- 
fore 1336. 

3. The father of Shimei, which latter cursed David when he fled from 
Absalom. 2 Sam. xvi, 5 ; xix, 16, 18 ; 1 Kings ii, 8. B. C. before 1023. 

GER'SHOM, (Heb. Gershom', Dt2H3» expulsion.') 

1. The elder of the two sons of Moses, born to him in the land of Mid- 
ian by Zipporah. Exod. ii, 22; xviii, 3. B. C. about 1531. He, with his 
brother Eliezer, held no other rank than that of simple Levites, while the 
sons of their uncle Aaron enjoyed all the privileges of the priesthood, 
(1 Chron. xxiii, 15, 16 ; xxvi. 24,) a proof of the rare disinterestedness of 
Moses. Shebuel, one of his descendants, was appointed ruler of the treas- 
ury under David. 1 Chron. xxvi, 24-28. 

2. The oldest son of Levi, (l Chron. vi, 16, 17, 20, 43, 62, 71; xv, 7,) 
elsewhere written Gershon, (q. v.) 

3. The sou of one Manasseh, (according to the text,) and father of Jon- 
athan, which last acted as priest to the Danites who captured Laish, (Judg. 
xviii, 30 ;) but, according to a more correct reading, he is not different from 
the son of Moses. The Talmud explains the substitution of “ Manasseh ” 
for “ Moses ” in the text by asserting that Jonathan did the works of Ma- 
nasseh, and was therefore reckoned in his family. (M’Clintock and Strong’s 
Cyclopaedia.) 

4. A descendant of Pliinehas, who went up with Ezra from Babylon. Ezra 
Viii, 2. B. C. 457. 


176 


GERSHON — GEUEL. 

GER'SHON, (Heb. Gershon expulsion ,) the eldest of the three 

sons of Levi, apparently bom before the migration of Jacob’s family into 
Egypt. Gen. xlvi, 11; Exod. vi, 16. B. C. before 1706. But, though the 
eldest born, the families of Gershon were outstripped in fame by their 
younger brethren of Kohath, from whom sprang Moses and the priestly line 
of Aaron. (See 1 Chron. vi, 2-15.) At the census in the wilderness the 
Gershonites numbered 7,500 males, (Num. iii, 22,) the number of efficient men 
being 2,630. Chap, iv, 40. The sons of Gershon had charge of the fabrics of the 
tabernacle — the coverings, curtains, hangings, and cords. Num. iii, 25, 26; 
iv, 25, 26. In the encampment their station was behind the tabernacle, on 
the west side. Num. iii, 23. When on the march, they went with the 
Merarites, in the rear of the first body of three tribes — Judah, Issachar, 
Zebulun — with Reuben behind them. In the apportionment of the Levitical 
cities thirteen fell to the lot of the Gershonites — two in Manasseli beyond 
Jordan, four in Issachar, four in Asher, and three in Naphtali. In the time 
of David the family was represented by Asaph “ the seer.” 1 Chron. vi, 
39-43. It is not easy to see what special duties fell to the lot of the 
Gershonites in the service of the tabernacle after its erection at Jerusa- 
lem, or in the temple. They were appointed to “ prophesy,” (that is, prob- 
ably, to utter or sing inspired words, perhaps after the special prompting 
of David himself.) 1 Chron. xxv, 2. Others of the Gershonites. sous of 
Laadan, had charge of the “ treasures of the house of God, and over the 
treasures of the holy things,” (1 Chron. xxvi, 20-22,) among which precious 
stones are specially named. Chap, xxix, 8. In Chronicles the name is, with 
two exceptions, (1 Chron. vi, 1 ; xxiii, 6.) given in the slightly different lorm 
of “ Gershom.” (Smith; M'Clintock and Strong.) 

GE'SHAM, or rather Geshan , (Heb. Geyshan', , filthy,) the third son 

of Jahdai, among the descendants of Caleb. 1 Chron. ii, 47. B. C. after 1470. 

GE'SHEM, (Heb. same, shower,) an Arabian, (Neh. ii, 19; vi, 1,) 

and one of the enemies of the Jews on the return from the exile, especially 
in the plots against the life of Neliemiah. Chap, vi, 2. B. C. 445. Geshem, 
we may conclude, was an inhabitant of Arabia Petraea, or of the Arabian 
Desert, and probably the chief of a tribe which, like most of the tribes on 
the eastern frontier of Palestine, was, in the time of the captivity and the 
subsequent period, allied with the Persians, or with any peoples threatening 
the Jewish nation ; for the wandering inhabitants of the frontier, doubtless, 
availed themselves largely, in their predatory excursions, of the distracted 
state of Palestine, and dreaded the re-establi.-hment of the kingdom. The 
Arabians, Ammonites, and Ashdodites are recorded as having “ conspired to 
fight against Jerusalem, and to hinder ” its repairing. (M’Clintock and Strong.) 

GE'THER, (Heb. same, -IIU) the name of the third son of Aram. Gen. 

x, 23. B. C. about 2218. He is mentioned in 1 Chron. i, 17, as one of the 
sons of Shem, probably meaning “ grandson of.” It is uncertain where his 
posterity settled. 

GEU'EL, (Heb. GeueV, elevation of God,) the son of Maclii, of 

the tribe of Gad, and one of the men sent by Moses to search the land of 
Canaan. Num. xiii, 15. B. C. 1490. 


GIBBAR — GIDEON. 


177 


GIB'BAR, (Chald. Gibbar *Q3, a hero,) an Israelite, whose descendants, 

to the number of 95, returned with Zerubbabel from Babylon. Ezra ii, 20. 
B. C. before 536. This is probably an error for the remnants of the natives 
of Gibeon. Neh. vii, 25. 

GIDDAI/TI, (Heb. same, whom Jehovah hath made great,) the 

ninth son of Heman, and head of the twenty-second course of Levitical 
musicians in the tabernacle under David. 1 Chron. xxv, 4, 29. B. C. about 
1015. The office of these brothers was to sound the horn in the Leviiical 
orchestra. Yer. 5. 

GID'DEL, (Heb. GiddeV , perhaps giant,) the name of two men 

whose descendants returned from the captivity with Zerubbabel. 

1. One of the Nethinim. Ezra ii, 47 ; Neh. vii, 49. B. C. before 536. 

2. One of “ Solomon’s servants,” that is, perhaps, of the Canaanitish 
tribes enslaved by Solomon. Ezra ii, 56; Neb. vii, 58; compare 1 Kings 
ix, 21. B. C. before 536. 

GID'EON. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Gidon', py*73, tree-feller, 

that is, warrior ,) was the son of Joash the Abi-ezrite, of the tribe of Ma- 
nasseh, and resided at Ophrah in Gilead, bevond Jordan. 

2. Personal History. (1) Condition of Israel. Another relapse into 
evil brought Israel under the oppression of the Midianites for seven years. 
With Midian was allied Amalek and “ the children of the east,” (of Jordan.) 
Their power pressed so severely upon the Israelites that the latter “ made 
them the dens which are in the mountains, and caves, and strongholds.” 
The allies encamped in their territory, destroyed the crops, “ till thou come 
unto Gaza, and left no sustenance for Israel, neither sheep, nor ox, nor ass,” 
so that u Israel was greatly impoverished.” Judg. vi, 1-6. But before help- 
ing them, the Lord sent a prophet (name not given) to reprove them for 
their disobedience and bring them to repentance. (2) Call of Gideon. In 
such a time of distress Gideon was threshing wheat in the wine-press, to 
conceal it from the Midianites. While thus engaged the angel of the Lord 
appeared to him and addressed him in these words : “ The Lord is with 
thee, thou mighty man of valor.” To this Gideon made the despondent 
reply, “If the Lord be with us, why then is all this befallen us? ” Then 
Jehovah (revealing himself) said, “ Go’ in this ihy might, and thou shalt save 
Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee?” Doubtful 
of the means by which he might accomplish so great a work, he requeued 
a sign from heaven. This was granted to him; for when he presented his 
offering of a kid and unleavened cakes, the angel touched it, and it was con- 
sumed by tire. Recognizing Jehovah, he was filled with fear; but being 
comforted he built an altar, (Jehovah-shalom, the Lord send, peace.) Judg. 
vi, 1 i-24. (3) Destroys an Altar of Baal. The first thing for Gideon to do 

was to purify his father’s house from idolatry, and sanctify himself bv sac- 
rificing a burnt-offering. That night God commanded him to throw down 
the altar of Baal, belonging to his father, and cut down the grove by it. 
Then he was to build an altar unto the Lord, and offer thereon a seven- 
year-old bullock of his father's. Assisted by ten servants, Gideon obeyed 
the vision during (probably) the following night, through fear of those 
around. Gideon, being identified as the perpetrator of the act, was in 


178 


GIDEON. 


danger o! being stoned. But his father took the part of his son, and 
told the people to allow Baal to plead for himself. From this circum- 
stance Gideon received the name of Jerubbaal , that is, “ Let Baal plead.” 
Judg. vi, 25-32. (4) The Sign of the Fleece. When the Midianites and 

their allies once more invaded the land of Israel the Spirit of the Lord 
came upon Gideon, and he gathered together an army from the tribes of 
Manasseh, Asher, Zebulun, and Naphtali. Before going into battle he asked 
for a sign from God of the success of his undertaking. He asked iliat the 
dew should fall on a fleece spread upon the threshing-floor, while the ground 
all around should be dry. In the morning the fleece was so wet that Gid- 
eon wrung out of it a bowl of water. The next night the wonder was re- 
versed, the soil being wet and the fleece perfectly dry. Chap, vi, 36-40. 

“ The sign itself was to manifest the strength of divine assistance to his 
weakness of faith. Dew, in the Scriptures, is a symbol of the beneficent 
power of God, which quickens, revives, and invigorates the objects of nat- 
ure when they have been parched by the burning heat of the sun’s rays.” 

— Keil and Delitzscli, Commentary. (5) Midianites Defeated. Assured by 
this double sign, Gideon advanced against the enemy, and encamped near 
the brook Harod, in the valley of Jezreel. The army of the Midianites and 
their allies numbered about 135,000, (chap, viii, 10,) while the Israelites 
mustered only 32,000. Nevertheless, “And the Lord said unto Gideon, The 
people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into 
their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand 
hath saved me.” Gideon, therefore, made the usual proclamation, (Deut. 
xx, 8,) that all the faint-hearted might withdraw ; and 22,000 availed them- 
selves of this opportunity. Even this number the Lord regarded as too 
great, and so Gideon was commanded to test them in the matter of drink- 
ing. Those who knelt to drink were rejected, and only those were chosen * 
who “ lapped of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappetli,” that is, to 
take the water from the brook with the hollow of their hand, and lap it 
into the mouth with their tongue as a dog does. This test reduced the 
number to 300 men. These took the provision from the people, and the 
war-trumpets; so that every one of the 300 had a trumpet and (as the provis- 
ions were probably kept in vessels) a pitcher as well. That night Gideon 
overheard a man telling to his fellow a dream which he had had, namely, 
that of a cake of barley bread overthrowing a tent. Regarding this dream 
as significant of divine co-operation, Gideon began the attack without delay. 

He divided his 300 men into three companies, gave them all trumpets and 
empty pitchers, with torches in their hands. The pitchers were to hide the 
burning torches during the advance, and to increase the noise at the time of 
the attack by dashing them to pieces. The noise and sudden lighting up of 
the burning torches would naturally deceive the enemy as to the numbers 
of Gideon’s army. His strategem was eminently successful, and the enemy, 
thrown into a complete rout, “fled to Beth-shittah in Zererath, and to the 
border of Abel-meliolah, unto Tibbath.” Chap, vii, 1-23. (6) The Ephra- 

imites. In order to cut off the enemy’s retreat at the Jordan, Gideon 
sent notice to the Ephraimites to “ take before them the waters unto 
Beth-barah and Jordan.” See chap, iii, 28. The Ephraimites responded, 
took possession of the waters mentioned, captured the two princes, 
Oreb and Zeeb, put them to death, and brought their heads to Gideon. 
This latter act amounted to an acknowledgment of Gideon’s leadership, 


GIDE0N1 — GIL ALAI. 


179 


but they were greatly annoyed because he had made war upon and 
defeated the enemy without first summoning them to the field. Serious 
consequences were avoided by the tact of Gideon in speaking in a lowly 
spirit of his doings in comparison with theirs. Chap, vii, 24-viii, 3. The 
gleaning of Ephraim is the victory over the Midianites, and the capture of 
the two princes. The vintage of Abi-ezer, Gideon’s victory with his three 
hundred men. (7) Destroys Succoth. Passing over Jordan in his pursuit 
of the Midianites, he was refused assistance by the people of Succoth and 
Penuel. Upon his return he destroyed both places. Chap, viii, 4-17. 
(8) Avenges his Brethren. Gideon inquired of the two captive kings of 
Midian, (Zebah and Zalmunna,) “ What manner of men were they whom ye 
slew at Tabor? And they answered, As thou art, so were they; each one 
resembled the children of a king.” He then told them that these persons 
were his brethren, and commanded Jether, his first-born, to slay them. But 
Jether fearing to do so, Gideon slew them, “and took away the ornaments 
that were on their camels’ necks.” Chap, viii, 18-21. (9) Refuses the 

Crown. Gideon, having so gloriously delivered Israel from the severe and 
long oppression of the Midianites, was offered by the Israelites an heredi- 
tary crown. “ The men oj Israel ” were probably only the northern tribes, 
already mentioned in chap, vi, 35, who had suffered most severely from the 
Midianitish oppression, and had rallied about Gideon. The temptation to 
accept the government of Israel was resisted by Gideon, probably, because 
he thought the government of Jehovah in Israel amply sufficient, and did 
not consider himself or his sons called to found an earthly monarchy. 
(Keil.) (10) Remaining Acts and Death. Gideon made the request that 
the people should give him the golden earrings taken with the spoil, which 
they willingly consented to do, and brought them to the amount of seven- 
teen hundred shekels, (about fifty pounds.) He made thereof a golden 
ephod, and put it in his own city, Ophrali. It proved a snare to Israel, to 
himself, and house: to Israel, because they made it an object of worship; 
to Gideon and his house, because he invaded the prerogative of the Aaronic 
priesthood, and gave an impetus to the worship of Baal after lus death. The 
evil consequences of this false step in religion was realized in the miserable 
sequel of Gideon’s family. The history of Gideou is concluded in Judg- 
viii, 28-32. The Midianites had been so humiliated that “ they lifted up 
their heads no more. And the country was in quietness forty years in the 
days of Gideon.” A few other notices ase given respecting his family, to 
prepare the way for the history of his sons after his death. “ And Jerub- 
baal the son of Joash went and dwelt in his own house ; ” retiring into pri- 
vate life. In addition to the seventy sons born of his many wives, he fiad 
a son by his concubine who lived in Shechem, and to this son he gave the 
name of Abiraelech. Gideon died at a good old age, and was buried in his 
father’s sepulcher at Ophrah. B. C. 1209. 

GID'EONI, (Heb. Gidoni ', *ojn2, another form of Gideon ,) a Benjamite 

whose son, Abidan, was a prominent man of his tribe, and was employed 
in numbering the people. Hum. i, 11; ii, 22; vii, 60, 65; x, 24. B. C. 
about 1490. 

GII/ALAI, (Heb. Gilalay', ^2, perhaps dungy or weighty ,) one of the 

priests nppointed by JSTehemiah to aid Zechariah in the musical services 

12 


180 


GILEAD— GOLIATH. 


under Ezra at the dedication of the walls of Jerusalem. Nell, xii, 36. 
B. C. 445. 

GIL'EAD, (Heb. Gilad', stony, heap of testimony.) 

1. The son of Machir and grandson of Manasseh ; his descendants bore 
his name as a patronymic. Num. xxvi, 29, 30. B. C. before 1452. 

2. The father of Jephthah the judge, and descendant of the above. Judg. 
xi, 1, 2. B. C. before 1151. 

3. The son of Michael and father of Jaroah, of the tribe of Gad. 1 Chron. 
v, 14. 

GFNATH, Heb. Ginath ', nr3, a garden or protection,) the father of 

Tibni, (q. v.,) king of the northern tribes of Israel. 1 Kings xvi, 21, 22. 
B. C. before 925. 

GIN'NETHO, a corrupt reading (Neh. xii, 4) for the name Ginnethon. 

GIN'NETHON, (Heb. Ginnethon ', ji]"l33, gardener ,) one of the “ chiefs ” 

of the priests that returned from the captivity with Zerubbabel (Neh. xii, 4, 
where the reading is “ Gennetho”) and subscribed the covenant with Nehe- 
miah. Chap, x, 6. His son Meshullam is mentioned as contemporary with 
the high-priest Joiakim. Chap, xii, 16. B. C. 536-410. 

GIS'PA, (Heb. Gishpa ', NBK’3, flattery ,) one of the two overseers of the 

Nethinim in Ophel, at Jerusalem, after the captivity, (Neh. xi. 21 ;) but 
whether he was himself also of that class is not stated, although this is 
probable from the fact that his associate, Ziha, was. Ezra ii, 43. B. C. 445. 

GOG, (Heb. same, 3)3,) son of Shemaiah and father of Shimei, and one 
of the descendants of "Reuben. 1 Chron. v, 4. B. C. before 1300. 

GOLFATH. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Golyath', rp^j, an exile,) 

Goliath, although repeatedly called a Philistine, was probably descended 
from the old Rephaim, of whom a scattered remnant took refuge with the 
Philistines after their dispersion by the Ammonites. Deut. ii, 20, 21 ; 
2 Sam. xxi, 22. Some trace of this condition may be preserved in the giant’s 
name, exile. 

2. Personal History. The only mention made of Goliath is his appear- 
ance as the champion of the Philistines, and his death at the hands of Da- 
vid. 1 Sam. xvii. B. C. about 1063. The Philistines had ventured upon 
another inroad into the country, and have taken up a firm position on the 
slope of a mountain, Ephes-dammim, between Shochoh and Azekah, in west- 
ern Judah. Israel encamps over against them on the slope of a second 
mountain, at a place called the Yalley of the Terebinih, and between the two 
camps lies a deep, narrow valley, which seems destined as a field on which 
the warriors of either side may exercise their valor. And now from the 
Philistine camp there advances a champion, Goliath of Gath, six cubits and 
a span high, (which, taking the cubit at twenty-one inches, would make him 
ten and a half feet high,) with a bronze helmet, and clothed in a coat of 
mail the weight of which was five thousand shekels, and a spear like the 
shaft of a weaver’s beam. Forty days he terrifies the people by challeng- 
ing, morning and evening, to single combat any of Israel’s warriors. David 
had been sent to his brethren with provisions, and, hearing the challenge of 


GOMER — HABAIAH. 


181 


Goliath, inquired its meaning. Upon being told, he offered to become Is- 
rael’s champion, and sallied forth armed with a sling and five smooth stones. 
He answered the scornful taunt of the giant with, “ This day will the Lord 
deliver thee into mine hand.” He smote Goliath in the forehead, and, slay- 
ing the fallen champion, cut off his head. “ When the Philistines saw their 
champion was dead, they fled,” and were pursued by the Israelites with great 
slaughter. 

Difficulties— The size of the giant has been variously estimated. The Septu- 
* agint (1 Sam. xvii, 4) and Josephus (Ant., vi, 9, 1) read “ four cubits and a span,” 
which would make him a little over seven feet. Thenius computes the six cubits 
and a span to have been about nine feet two inches, Parisian measure. “There 
are still giants who are eight feet and upward, for, according to the ‘ N. Preuss. 
Zeit.’ of 1867, there came a man to Berlin eight feet four inches high, and possi- 
bly still growing, as he was only twenty years old, anu he was said to have a 
great-uncle who was nine inches taller.”— Keil and Delitzsch. “ The weight of 
the armor, five thousand shekels, is given by Ewald (vol. iii, p. 69) as five thousand 
pounds, who merely observes that the pounds were, of course, much smaller than 
ours. Thenius makes the weight equal one hundred and forty-eight Dresden 
pounds, and adds that the cuirass of Augustus the Strong, preserved in the his- 
torical museum at Dresden, weighed fifty-five pounds. From this he infers that 
the weight given as that of Goliath’s coat of mail is by no means too great.”— 
Keil and Delitzsch. In 2 Sam. xxi, 19, we find that another Goliath of Gath (of 
whom it is also said that “ the staff of his spear was like a weaver’s beam ”) was 
slain by Elhanan, also a Bethlehemite. St. Jerome makes the unlikely conjecture 
that Elhanan was another name for David. The Authorized Version here interpo- 
lates the words “ the brother of,” from 1 Chron. xx, 5, where the giant is called 
“Lahmi.” “The assumption that there were two Goliaths is a very improbable 
one, and there is nothing at all strange in the reference to a brother of Goliath, 
who was also a powerful giant, and carried a spear like Goliath.”— Keil and 
Delitzsch. 

GO'MER, (Heb. same, ibU , perfection or heat , that is, passion.) 

1. The eldest son of Japheth, (B. 0. probably 220Q,) and father of Ash- 
kenaz, Riphath, and Togarmah. Gen. x, 2, 3. The name afterward occurs 
as that of a tribe, (see Ezekiel xxxviii, 6,) probably the Cimmeranians, who 
dwelt, according to Herodotus, on the Maeotis, in the Taurian Chersonesus. 
(Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary.) 

2. The name of the daughter of Diblaim, a harlot who became the wife or 
concubine (according to some, in vision only) of the prophet Hosea. Hosea 
i, 3. B. C. about 785. 

GU'NI, (Heb. Gwii', ^a, colored , dyed.) 

1. One of the sons of Naphtali, (B. C. before 1706,) but not necessarily 
born before the migration to Egypt. Gen. xlvi T 24 ; Num. xxvi, 48 1 Chron. 
vii, 13. His descendants are called Gunites. Num. xxvi, 48. 

2. Father of Abdiel and grandfather of Ahi, which last was chieftain of 
the Gileadite Gadites. 1 Chron. v, 15. 


HAAKASH'TERI, (Heb. with the art., hctrAchastari', the 

mule-driver,) the last-mentioned of the four sons of Naarah, the second 
wife of Ashur, of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 6. B. C. about 1300. 

HABA'IAH, (Heb. Chabayah', n*Qfi, whom Jehovah protects ,) a priest 

whose descendants returned from the captivity with Zerubbabel, but were 


182 


HABAKKUK— HADAD. 


degraded from tlie priesthood, not being able to trace their genealogy. 
Ezra ii, 61 ; Neh. vii, 63. B. C. about 536. 

HAB'AKKUK, [many Habak'kuk,'] (Heb. Chabakkukf, embrace ,) 

the eighth in order of the twelve minor prophets. Nothing certain is known 
as to the circumstances of Habakkuk’s life, as we have only apocryphal and 
conflicting accounts. In the headings to his book (chaps, i, 1, and iii, 1) 
Habakkuk is simply described as a man who held the office of prophet. 
From the conclusion to the psalm in chap, iii, “ To the chief singer on my 
stringed instruments,” (ver. 19,) we learn that he was officially qualified to 
take part in the liturgical singing of the temple, and therefore belonged to 
one of the Levitical families, who were charged with the maintenance of the 
temple music, and, like the prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel, w r ho sprang from 
priestly households, belonged to the tribe of Levi. This is supported by 
the superscription of the apochryphon of Bel and the dragon, “ Habakkuk 
the son of Joshua of the tribe of Levi.” (Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary.) 

Book of Habukkuk. The prophet begins by lamenting the iniquities 
and lawless violence that prevailed among the Jews ; foretells the Chaldean 
invasion ; the judgments that are to befall the invaders for their cruelty 
and idolatry ; and concludes his book with a sublime song, both of praise 
and prayer. B. C. about 6-6. 

HABAZINFAH, (Heb. Chabatstsinyah ', iTiiDfl, perhaps lamp of Jeho- 
vah ; according to Fiirst, collection of Jehovah ,) the father of one Jeremiah, 
and grandfather of the chief Rechabite, Jaazaniah, which last the prophet 
Jeremiah tested with the offer of wine in the temple. Jer. xxxv, 3. B. C. 
about 6o7. 

HACHALFAH, (Heb. Chakolyah', rpfon, whose eyes Jehovah enlivens , 

Gesenius; ornament of Jehovah, Fiirst,) the father of Nehemiah, the gover- 
nor after the captivity. Neh. i, 1 ; x, 1. B. C. ante 446. 

HACH'MONI, (Heb. Cliakmoni ', wise,) a man only known as 

the father (or ancestor; compare 1 Chron. xxvii, 2) of Jashobeam, the chief 
of David’s warriors, (1 Chron. xi, 11, where son of Hachmoni is rendered 
“ Hachmonitef for which the parallel passage, 2 Sam. xxiii, 8, has “ Tach- 
monitef) and also of Jehiel, the companion of the princes in the royal 
household. 1 Chron. xxvii, 32. B. C. considerably ante 1046. Hachmon or 
Hachmoni was, no doubt, the founder of a family to which these belonged. 
The actual father of Jashobeam was Zabdiel, (1 Chron. xxvii, 2,) and he is 
also said to have belonged to the Korhites, (1 Chron. xii, 6 ;) possibly the 
Levites descended from Korah. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia .) 

HA'DAD, (Heb. Hadad', Tin, according to Gesenius, from root “ tq 

break ,”) probably an official title, like Pharaoh, and the names of several 
men. It is found occasionally in the altered form, Hadar. 

1. One of the sons of Ishmael, (Gen. xxv, 15, “ Hadar”) 1 Chron. i, 30. 
B. C. about 1800. 

2. The son of Bedad, and king of Edom. He gained an important vic- 
tory over the Midianites on the field of Moab. He was the successor of 
Husham, and established his court at Avith. Gen. xxxvi, 35 ; 1 Chron. i, 46. 
B. C. after 1780. 


HADAD-EZER — HADLAI. 


183 


3. A no 1 her king of Edom, successor of Baal-hanan. The name of his 
c’ty was Pai, (Pan,) and his wife’s name Mehetabel. 1 Chron. i, 50. He is 
called Hadar in Gen. xxxvi, 39, where his death is not mentioned. This 
may be explained by the simple fact that at the time when the first table 
was drawn up Hadad was still alive and seated upon the throne. In all 
probability Hadad was the king of Edom to whom Moses applied for per- 
mission to pass through the land. Hum. xx, 14, sq. B. C. about 1496. 

4. A prince of the royal house of Edom. In his childhood he escaped the 
massacre under Joab, and fled with some followers into Egypt. Pharaoh 
treated him very kindly, and gave him his sister-in-law in marriage. By 
her he had a son, Genubath, who was brought up in the palace with the 
sons of Pharaoh. After David’s death Hadad resolved to recover his do- 
minion, but Pharaoh opposing him, he left Egypt and returned to his own 
country. 1 Kings xi, 14, sq. B. C. 984. It does not appear from the text, 
as it now stands, what was the result of this attempt, further than he was 
one of the tro abler s of Solomon’s reign. Yer. 14. Our version makes ver. 
25 refer to Rezon, but tne Septuagint has, “ This is the evil which Adar did.' 1 
The meaning then will be, This same kind of mischief (incursions in the 
land ot Israel like those of Rezon) wrought also Hadad. (Whedon’s Com- 
mentary, in loco.) 

HADAD-E'ZER, (Heb. id., ‘’iTJTnn, Adad is his help, less correctly, 

Hadare'zer,) son of Rehob, and king of the Aramite state ofZobah. While 
on his way to establish his dominion (B. C. about 1040) he was defeated in 
the neighborhood of the Euphrates. 2 Sam. viii, 3. Erom chap, x (ver. 7, sq.) 
we learn that Joab commanded the forces of Israel. Hadadezer made 
preparations for the campaign of the following year on a far larger scale. 
When David heard that Hadadezer was gathering great armies on the Eu- 
phrates, lie determined to anticipate his attack. He marched in person 
with Ins troops over Jordan to the north-east, and, at Helam, a place un- 
known to us, a decisive battle was fought. The Aramaeans from both sides 
of the Euphrates were completely routed, (2 Sam. viii, 4 ; x, 18,) and the 
power of Hadadezer was so thoroughly broken that all the small tributary 
princes seized the opportunity of throwing off his yoke. 

HA'DAR. 1. (Heb. Chadar', Tin, perhaps chamber ,) one of the “ sons 
of Ishmael,” (Gen. xxv, 15,) given in 1 Chron. i, 30, as Hadad, (q. v.) 

2. (Heb. Hadar', “Tin, perhaps ornament ,) an Edomitish king who suc- 
ceeded Baal-hanan. Gen. xxxvi, 39. The name of his city, and the name 
and genealogy of his wife, are given. In the parallel list in 1 Chron. i, he 
appears as Hadad. We know from another source (1 Kings xi, 14, sq.) that 
Hadad was one of the names of the royal family of Edom. See Hadad, 3. 

HADAS'SAH, (Heb. Hadassah', HDIH, myrtle,) the earlier Jewish 
name of Esther. Esther ii, 1. See Esther. 

HAD'LAI, (Heb. Chadlay', ^*in, resting ,) the father of Amasa, which 

latter was one of the Ephraimites who opposed the captives of Judah 
in the civil war between Pekah and Ahaz. 2 Chron. xxviii, 12. B. C. 
about 741. 


184 


HADORAM— HAGAR. 


HADO'RAM, (Heb. Hadoram', Q^nn, Hador is exalted.) 

1. The fifth of the thirteen sons of Joktan, (Gen. x, 27 ; 1 Chron. i, 21.) 
and supposed to be progenitor of a tribe in Anibia Felix. B. C. after 2247. 
It is impossible to identify the tribe in question. Gesenius and others think 
that the Adramitse are meant. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia ; Keil 
and Delitzsch, Commentary.) 

2. The son of Toi, (Tou,) king of Hamath, sent by his father (with valu- 
able presents of gold, silver, and brass vessels) to congratulate David on his 
victory over their common enemy, Hadadezer, king of Syria. 1 Chron. 
xviii, 10. B. C. about 1040. In the parallel narrative of 2 Sam. viii, the 
name is given as Joram. This, being a contraction of Jehoram, which 
contains the name of Jehovah, is peculiarly an Israehtish appellation. 
(Smith, s. v.) 

3. Chief officer of the 'tribute in the time of Rehoboam, son of Solomon. 
He was stoned to death by the people of the northern tribes when sent by 
the king to collect the usual taxes. 2 Chron. x, 18. B. C. about 975. 
Probably the same person as Adoniram in 1 Kings iv, 6 ; v, 14. 

HA'GAB, (Heb. Chagab ', 33 1"|, Q, locust ,) one of the Nethinim whose de- 
scendants returned from Babylon under Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 46. B. C. ante 
536. 

HAG' ABA, (Heb. Chggaba iOJn, also n33n, a locust , Ezra ii, 45,) 

one of the Nethinim whose descendants returned from the captivity with 
Zerubbabel. Neh. vii, 48. B. C. ante 536. 

HA'GAB AH, (Ezra ii, 45,) another form of the preceding. 

HA'GAR, (Heb. Hagar', 33H, flight , or stranger,) a native of Egypt, a 

servant of Abraham, (Gen. xxi, 9, 10,) and handmaid of Sarah. Chap. xvi. 1. 

(1) Abraham’s Wife. Sarah, continuing for so long time childless, deter- 
mined to become a mother by proxy (not uncommon in the East) through 
her handmaid, whom she gave to Abraham as a secondary wife. Gen. xvi. 
B. C. about 1911. This honor was too great for the weak and ill-regulated 
mind of Hagar; and no sooner did she find herself likely to become the 
mother of her master’s heir than she openly indulged in triumph over her 
less favored mistress. Sarah, deeply wounded, complained to Abraham, 
who gave her full power to act as she thought best toward Hagar. 

(2) Flight. As soon as Sarah made her feel her power, Hagar fled, doubt- 
less intending to return to Egypt, by a road used from time immemorial, 
that ran from Hebron past Beersheba “ by the way of Shur.” There the 
angel of the Lord found her by a well, and directed her to return to her 
mistress and submit to her, promising her the birth of a son and numerous 
descendants. (3) Return. Obedient to the heavenly visitor, and having 
distinguished the place by the name of Beer-lahai-roi, Hagar returned 
to the tent of Abraham, where in due time she had a son. Abraham 
called him, as directed by the angel, (ver. 11,) Ishmael, “ God shall hear.” 
About fourteen years after Isaac was born, and when he was weaned, prob- 
ably two or three years later, Ishmael greatly offended Sarah by mocking 
her son. -Sarah insisted upon his expulsion from the family, together with 
Hagar. (4) Expelled. Abraham, though displeased, consented, being di- 
vinely instructed to follow Sarah’s advice. Hagar and her son were sent 


HAGGAI — HAKKOZ. 


185 


away. Wandering in the desert, the strength of Ishmael gave way, and 
she laid him down under one of the stunted shrubs of that region. She 
withdrew about a bowshot’s distance, unwilling to see his dying sufferings, 
« and wept. The angel of the Lord appeared with a comforting promise of 
her son’s increasing greatness, and directed her to a fountain, from which 
she filled the bottle and gave her son to drink. B. G. about 1892. We have 
no account of Hagar's subsequent history beyond what is involved in that 
of Ishmael, who established himself in the wilderness of Paran, in the 
neighborhood of Sinai, and was married to an Egyptian woman. Gen. xxi, 
1-21. In Gal. iv, 24, the apostle Paul, in an allegory, makes Hagar rep- 
resent the Jewish Church, which was in bondage to the ceremonial law, as 
Sarah represents the true Church of Christ, which was free from this bond- 
age. (Bloomfield, New Testament , note, ad loco.) 

HAG'GAi, (Heb. Chaggay', festive ,) the tenth in order of the twelve 

minor prophets, and the first of the three who, after the return of the Jews 
from the Babylonian exile, prophesied in Palestine. Of the place and year 
of his birth, and his descent, nothing is known. He commenced to prophesy 
in the second year of Darius Hystaspes. Hagg. i, 1. Together with Zeeha- 
riah, he urged the renewal of the building of the temple, which had been 
suspended after the reign of Cyrus, and obtained the permission and assist- 
ance of the king. Ezra v, 1; vi, 14. Animated by the high courage of 
these devoted men, the people prosecuted the work with vigor, and the tem- 
ple was completed and dedicated in the sixth year of Darius. B. C. 515. 
(Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary; M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

HAG'GERI, (Heb. Hagri', n2n. « Hagerite.) “ Mibhar, sou of Hag- 

geri,” was one of the mighty men of David’s guard, according to the cat- 
alogue of 1 Chron. xi, 38. The parallel passage, 2 Sam. xxiii, 36, has “ Bani 
the Gadita.” 

HAG'GI, (Heb. Chaggi', ’’SPI , festive,) the second of the seven sons of the 

patriarch Gad, (Gen. xlvi, 16,) and progenitor of the family of Haggites. 
Num. xxvi, 15. B. C. probably before 1700. 

HAGGI'AH, (Heb. Chaggiyah', rt s 3fl, festival of Jehovah,) a Levite of the 

family of Merari, apparently the sons of Shimea and the family of Asaiah, 
which last seems to have been contemporary with David. 1 Chron. vi, 30. 
B. C. before 1300. 

HAG'GITH, (Heb. Chaggith ', JVan, feminine of the adjective that ap- 
pears in the names Hajggi , etc., and seems to be indicative of festivity in the 
religious sense,) a wife of David, known only as the mother of Adonijah. 
2 Sam. iii, 4; 1 Kings i, 5, 11; ii, 13; 1 Chron. iii, 2. She was probably 
married to David after his accession to the throne. B. C. 1053. (M’Cliu- 
tock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

HAK'KATAN, or rather Katan , (Heb. Katan ', |tDp, the little, or junior ,) 

a descendant (or native) of Azgad, and father of Johanan, which last re- 
turned with 110 male retainers from Babylon with Ezra. Ezra viii, 12. B. C. 
before 457. 

HAK'KOZ,.(l Chron. xxiv, 10.) See Koz. 


186 


H AK IT PH A — HA M A N. 


HAKU'PHA, (Heb. Chakupha ', crooked ; but according to Fiirst, 

incitement,) one of the Nethiuim who returned from Babylon with Zerubba- 
bel. Ezra ii, 51 ; Neh. vii, 53. B. C. about 538. 

HALLO'HE SH, or rather, Lochesh , (Heb. Lochesh ', with the ar- 
ticle hal-lochesh' , the whisperer ,) the father of Shallum, which latter 

assisted Nehemiah in repairing the walls of Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 12, where 
the name is Anglicized “ Halohesh.” He was one of the popular chiefs 
who covenanted with Nehemiah. Neh. x, 24. B. C. 445. 

HALO'HE SH, (Neh. iii, 12.) See IIallohesh. 

HAM, (Heb. Cham , Dn, hot,) the youngest of the three sons of Noah. 

Gen. v, 32. See Difficulties. Like his brothers, he was married at the 
time of the Deluge ; and, with his wife, was saved from destruction in the 
ark. Chap, vii, 13. B. C. about 2349. After the Deluge he provoked the 
wrath of his father by an act of indecency toward him, and reaped the pa- 
triarch’s curse. Chap, ix, 21, sq. See Difficulties. A list of his descendants 
is given in chap, x, 6-18, as follows : 

HAH. 


I. CUSH. II. MIZRAIM. III. PHUT. IV. CANAAN. 

1. Seba ; 2. Havilah ; 3. Sabtah ; 1. Ludim ; 2 . Anamiin ; 3. Lehabim; 1. Sidon ; 2. Heth ; 

4. Raamah ; 5. Sabtecha; 6. Nimrod. 4. Naplituhim ; 5. Pathrusim ; 3. Jebasite; 4. Auiorite ; 

6. Casluhim ; 7. Caphtorim ; 5. Girgasite; 6. Hivite ; 

7. Arkite; 8. Sinite; 

9. Arvadite; 10. Zemar- 

Sbeba; Dedan. Philistim. ite; 11. Hauiathite. 

Difficulties.— Gen. ix, 24: “ His younger son.” It is questionable whether 
the adjective “ younger ” (literally, “little") is to be taken as comparative, in the 
sense of “ the younger,” or as superlative, meaning “ the youngest.” Keil and 
Delitzsc.h (Commentary, in loco) prefer the former, and take the order in which 
the three names stand as an indication of their relative ages. Others accept the 
superlative, and consider Ham to be the youngest son. (M’Clintock and Strong’s 
Cyclopaedia.) Gen. ix, 25 : “ Cursed be Canaan.” “ To understand the words of 
Noah with reference to his sons we must bear in mind, on the one hand, that as 
the moral nature of the patriarch was transmitted by generation to his descendants, 
so the diversities of character in the sons of Noah foreshadowed diversities in the 
moral inclinations of the tribes of which they were the head ; and, on the other 
hand, that Noah, through the Spirit and power of that God with whom he walked, 
discerned in the moral nature of his sons, and the different tendencies which they 
already displayed, the germinal commencement of the future course of their pos- 
terity, and uttered words of blessing and of curse, which were prophetic of the 
history of the tribes that descended from them. (Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary.) 

HA'MAN, (Heb. Human ', Jftn, perhaps from the Persian homam , mag- 
nificent, or the Sanskrit heman , the planet Mercury ,) the son of Hammedatha 
the Agagite, prime minister of Ahasuerus, the Persian king. Esther iii, 1. 
B. C. about 510. As Agag was a title of the kings of the Amalekites, it is 
supposed that Haman was descended from the royal family of that nation. 
He, or his father, probably found their way to Persia as captives or hostages. 
His intrigues against Mordecai and the Jews, the discovery of his plot, and 
his own execution, are graphically delineated in the book of Esther. Pri- 
deaux ( Connexion , anno. 453) computes the sum which he offered to pay 
iuto the royal treasury at more than £2,000,000 sterling. 


187 


H A M M E D AT IT A — H A N A M EEL. 

HAMMED'ATHA, (Heb. Hammedatlia', xnTOH,) father of the infa- 
mous Haman, and commonly designated as “the Agagite,” (Esther iii, 1, 10; 
viii, 5 ; ix, 24,) though also without the title. Chap, ix, 10. B. C. probably 
before 510. 

HAMME'LECH, (Heb. ham-Me'lek, which is merely me'- 

lek , king , with the article prefixed,) the father of Jerahmeel, which latter 
was one of those commanded by Jehoiakim to arrest Jeremiah and Baruch. 
Jer. xxxvi, 26. B. C. before 605. It is uncertain w'hether this was the 
same with Hammelech, the father of Malchiah, into whose dungeon Jere- 
miah was afterward cast. Jer. xxxviii, 6. B. C. before 589. Others, how- 
ever, regard the word in both cases as an appellative, referring in the first 
passage to Jehoiakim and in the latter to Zedekiah. Compare Hammole- 
keth. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

HAMMOI/EKETH, (Heb. ham-Mole-keth , rD^fon, “ the queen”) a 

woman introduced in the genealogies of Manasseh as daughter of Machir 
and sister of Gilead, (1 Chron. vii, 17, 18,) and as having among her three 
children Abi-ezer, from whose family sprang the great judge Gideon. B. C. 
before 1249. The Jewish tradition is that “ she used to reign over a portion 
of the land which belonged to Gilead,” and that for that reason her lineage 
has been preserved. See Hammelech. 

HA'MOR, (Heb. Chamor liftn, a he-ass,) a Hivite, from whom (or his 

sons) Jacob purchased the plot of ground in which Joseph was afterward 
buried, (Gen. xxxiii, 19 ; Josh, xxiv, 32 ; Acts vii, 16, in which last passage 
the name is Anglicized Emmor ,) and whose son, Shechem, seduced Dinah. 
Gen. xxxiv, 2. B. C. about 1732. As the latter appears to have founded 
the city of Shechem, Hamor is also named as the representative of its in- 
habitants (Judg. ix, 28) in the time of Abimelech. Neither his character 
aud influence, (indicated by his title “prince,”) nor his judicious behavior 
in the case of his son, saved him from the indiscriminate massacre by 
Dinah’s brothers. 

HAMU'EL, (Heb. ChammueV, heat, or light of God,) the son of 

Mishma and (apparently) father ol Zacchur, of the tribe of Simeon. 
1 Chron. iv, 26. 

HA'MUL, (Heb. ChamuV, spared ,) the second of the two sons of 

Pharez, son of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 5. He could not have been born, how- 
ever, before the migration of Jacob into Egypt, (as appears to be stated in 
Gen. xlvi, 12,) since Pharez was not at that time grownup. Gen. xxxviii, 29. 

HANAJVTEEL, (Heb. ChanameV, perhaps God has given,) the 

son of Shallum and cousin of Jeremiah, to whom, while Jerusalem was 
besieged, he sold a field in Anathoth. Jer. xxxii, 6-12. B. C. about 590. 
The prohibition to sell Levitical estates applied merely to their alienating 
them from the tribe. Fairbairn suggests that, as this was a typical act, the 
ordinary civil rules do not apply to it. “ The transaction was intended to 
evince the certainty of restoration from the impending exile by showing 
that possessions, which could be established by documents, would be of 
future value to the possessor.” Yers. 13-15. 


188 


HANAN — HANANIAH. 


HA'NAN, (Heb. Chanan pn, merciful.) 

1. One of the sons (or descendants) of Shashak, one of the chief men of 
Benjamin, residing at Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 23. B. C. before 1050. 

2. The last-named of the six sons of Azel the Beujamite. 1 Chron. viii, 
38 ; ix, 44. 

3. Son of Maachah, and one of David’s mighty men. 1 Chron. xi, 43. 
B. C. 1047. 

4. One of the Nethinim whose posterity were among those that re- 
turned from the captivity with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 46 ; Nell, vii, 49. 
B. C. 536. 

5. One of the Levites who assisted Ezra in expounding the law to the 
people. Neh. viii, 7. B. C. 445. He also sealed the covenant made by Ne- 
iieiniah. Neh. x, 10. He is probably the same as the one mentioned in 
chap, xiii, 13, as the son of Zaccur, who, on account of his integrity, was 
appointed to distribute the Levitical revenues among his brethren. 

6. A chief of the people who subscribed the covenant drawn up by Ne- 
hemiah. Neh. x, 22. The same name occurs in ver. 26. 

7. The son of Igdaliah, and an officer about the Lord’s house. Into the 
chamber of his sons Jeremiah brought the Rechabites in order to test their 
temperance. Jer. xxxv, 4. B. C. about 607. 

HANA'NI, (Heb. Chanani ', vpfj, God has gratified me.) 

1. One of the sous of Heman, appointed by lot, in the time of David, for 
the service of song in the sanctuary. Hanani had charge of the eighteenth 
division. 1 Chron. xxv, 4, 25. B. C. about 1015. 

2. A prophet who rebuked Asa, king of Judah, for seeking help from 
the king of Syria against Baasha, king of Israel. In punishment for his 
defection from the time God, Hanani threatened him with wars during the 
remainder of his reign. Enraged at the prophet's boldness, the king put 
him into prison. 2 Chron. xvi, 7-10. B. C. 941. This Hanani is prob- 
ably the same with the father of the prophet Jehu, w r ho denounced Baasha 
(1 Kings xvi, 1, 7) and King Jehoshaphat. 2 Chron. xix, 2 ; xx, 34. 

3. One of the sous (or descendants) of Immer, who had taken a strange 
wife during the captivity. Ezra x, 20. 

4. One of the “brethren” of Nehemiah, who, with others, went from 
Jerusalem to Shushan, sent probably by Ezra, and brought information con- 
cerning the condition of the returned Jews. Their information probably 
led to the mission of Nehemiah. Neh. i, 2. Hanani returned to Judea, and, 
together with one Hananiah, was placed in charge of the gates of Jerusa- 
lem. to see that they were opened and shut at the proper hours, morning 
and evening. Neh. vii, 2. B. C. 445. 

5. A priest, one of the musicians who officiated in the ceremonial of pu- 
rifying the walls of Jerusalem when they had been rebuilt. Neh. xii, 36. 
B. C. 445. 

HANANI' AH, (Heb. Chananyah JTJjn, whom Jehovah has graciously 
given.) T : 

1. One of the sons of Zerubbabel, who was of the family of David. 
1 Chron. iii, 19. His sons are given as Pelatiah and Jesaiah. Ver. 21. 

2. One of the sons of Sliishak, and a chief of the tribe of Benjamin. 
1 Chron. viii, 24. 


HAN AN! AH. 


189 


3. A son of Heman, appointed by David to take charge of the sixteenth 
division of Levi deal musicians. 1 Chron. xxv, 4, 23. B. C. about 1015. 

4. “One of the king’s captains” in the army of Uzziah, king of Judah. 
2 Chron. xxvi, 11. B. C. 810. 

5. An Israelite, of the family of Bebai, who renounced 'his Gentile wife 
after the captivity. Ezra x, 28. B. C. 456. 

6. “ The son of one of the apothecaries ” (or makers of the sacred oint- 
ments and incense, Exod. xxx, 22-38) who repaired part of the wall of 
Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 8. B. C. 445. Possibly the same with No. 5. 

7. The son of Shelemiah, and one of the priests who repaired the wall 
of Jerusalem opposite their houses, “ from above the horse gate.” Neh. iii, 30. 
B. C. 445. 

8. The “ ruler of the palace,” and die person who was associated with 
Nehemiah’s brother, Hanaui, in charge of the gates of Jerusalem. He is 
described as “ a faithful man,” and one that “ feared God above many.” 
Neh. vii, 2. B. C. 445. His office seems to have been one of authority 
and trust, and perhaps the same as that of Eliakim, who was “ over the 
house” in the reign of Hezekiah. (M’Cliutock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

9. The name of one of the “ chief of the people ” who sealed the cove- 
nant made by Nehemiah and the people to serve the Lord. Neh. x, 23. 
B. C. 445. 

10. A priest, apparently son of Jeremiah, after the captivity, (Neh. 
xii, 12;) probably the same with one of those who celebrated the comple- 
tion of the walls of Jerusalem. Yer. 41. B. C. 445. 

11. Son of Azur, a*prophet of Gibeon, who uttered false prophecies in 

the fourth year of Zedekiah, king of Judah. He publicly prophesied in 
the temple that within two years Jeconiah and all his fellow-captives, with 
the vessels ot the Lord’s house, which Nebuchadnezzar had taken away to 
Babylon, should be brought back to Jerusalem. He corroborated his 
prophecy by taking off from the neck of Jeremiah the yoke which he wore 
by divine command, (Jer. xxvii, 2,) in token of the subjection of Judea and 
the neighboring countries to the Babylonian empire. Jeremiah was bidden 
to go and tell Hananiah that for the wooden yokes which he had broken he 
should make yokes of iron, “that they may serve Nebuchadnezzar.” Jer- 
emiah also added this rebuke and denunciation: “Hear now, Hananiah ; 
The Lord hath not sent thee ; but thou makest this people to trust in a lie. 
Therefore thus saith the Lord ; Behold, I will cast thee from off the face of 
the earth: this year thou shalt die, because thou hast taught rebellion 
against the Lord. So Hananiah the prophet died the same year in the sev- 
enth month.” Jer. xxviii, 1-17. B. 0. about 596. “ The history of Hana- 

niah is of great interest, as throwing much light upon the Jewish politics 
of that eveutful time, divided as parties were into the partisans of Babylon 
on one hand, and Egypt on the other. It also exhibits the machinery of 
false prophecies, by which the irreligious party sought to promote their own 
policy in a very distinct form.” — M’Clintoek and Strong’s Cyclopaedia. 

12. The father of Zedekiah, who was one of the princes to whom Miclia- 
iah reported Baruch’s reading of Jeremiah’s prophecies. Jer. xxxvi, 12. 
B. 0. about 606. 

13. The grandfather of Irijah, the captain of the guard at the gate of 
Benjamin, who arrested the prophet Jeremiah upon the supposition that he 
intended to desert to the Chaldeans. Jer. xxxvii, 13. B. C. 589. 


190 


HANIEL— HAN UN. 


14. The original name of Shadrach. one of the three Hebrew children, by 
which latter name he is better known. Dan. i, 6, 7, 11, 19 ; ii, 17. 

HAN'IEIL, the less correct form of Hanniel, (q. v.) 1 Chron. vii, 39. 

HAN'NAH, (Heb. Channah HU!"!, grace, favor,) wife of Elkanah, (a Le- 

vite of Ephratha,) and mother of Samuel. Although childless, she was 
much beloved by her husband, but was greatly distressed by the insults of 
Elkanah’s other wife, Peninnali, who had children. On one of her visits to 
Shiloh she vowed before the Lord, if he would give her a son, to devote 
him to his service. Her manner, speaking in an inaudible tone, attracted 
the attention of the high-priest, Eli, who suspected her of drunkenness. 
From this suspicion she easily vindicated herself, and, receiving a blessing 
from Eli, returned to her home with a lightened heart. Before the end of 
the year Hannah became the mother of a son, whom she named Samuel. 
B. C. 1171. When Samuel was old enough to dispense with her maternal 
services Hannah took him to Shiloh, and presented him, with due form, to 
the high-priest. 1 Sam. i, 1-25. The joy of Hannah found expression in . 
an exulting song of thanksgiving. It is specially remarkable that in this 
song (chap, ii, 10) is the first mention in Scripture of the word “anointed,” or 
Messiah, and, as there was no king in Israel at the time, it seems the best 
interpretation to refer it to Christ. There is also a remarkable resemblance 
between this song and that of Mary. Luke i, 46, sq. Hannah came up to 
Shiloh every year to visit Samuel, and to bring him a coat. She received 
the kindly notice of Eli, and, blessed of God, bare after Samuel three sons 
and two daughters. Chap, ii, 21. 

HAN'NIEL, (Heb. Channiel' , ^n, grace of God.) 

1. The son of Ephod, prince of the tribe of Manasseh, and one of those 
appointed by Moses to divide the land among the several tribes. Numbers 
xxxiv, 23. 

2. One of the sons of Ulla, and a chief of the tribe of Asher. 1 Chron. 
vii, 39, where the name is less correctly Anglicized Hanitl. 

HA'NOCH, (Heb. Chanotf, ~p:n, initiated.) 

1. The third son of Midian, and grandson of Abraham by Keturah. Gen. 
xxv, 4 ; 1 Chron. i, 33. B. C. after 1853. 

2. The oldest son of Reuben, (Gen. xlvi, 9 ; Exod. vi, 14 ; 1 Chron. v, 3, 
from whom came “ the family of the Hanochites.” Num. xxvi, 5. B. C. 1706. 

HA'NUN, (Heb. Chanun ', j^n, favored.) 

1. The son and successor of Nahash, king of the Ammonites. 2 Sam. x, 
1, sq.-, 1 Chron. xix, 2-6. David, who had received kindness from Na- 
hash, sent an embassy to condole with Hanun on the death of his father. 
B. C. about 1037. The young king, led by his courtiers, misapprehended 
the object of the mission, and shamefully treated the embassadors. Their 
beards were half shaven and their garments cut off at the middle, and in 
this sad plight were sent back to David. News being brought to the king 
of .the affront, he commanded the embassadors to tarry in Jericho until their 
beards grew. He vowed vengeance, and Hanun, anticipating war, called 
to his aid the Syrians. The power of the Syrians, however, was broken in 
two campaigns, and the Ammonites were left to their fate. B. C. 1036. 


HARAN — HARIM. 


191 


2. A Jew who was associated with the inhabitants of Zanoah in repair- 
ing the Valley-gate of Jerusalem after the captivity. Neh. iii, 13. B. C. 445. 

3. The sixth son of Zalaph, who repaired part of the walls of Jerusalem. 
Neh. iii, 30. B. C. 445. 

HA'RAN, (Heb. Haran ' mountaineer ; charan' , pn, parched, [No. 2.]) 

1. One of the three sons of Terah, brother of Abraham, and the father 
of Lot, Milcah, and Iscah. He died in his native place (Ur) before his fa- 
ther Terah. Gen. xi, 27, sq. B. C. about 2056. 

2. The son of Ephah, a concubine of Caleb, and father of Gazez. 1 Chron. 
ii, 46. B. C. after 1490. 

3. One of the three sons of Shimei, a Gershonite, who was appointed by 
David to superintend the offices at the tabernacle. 1 Chron. xxiii, 9. B. C. 
1045. 

HARBO'NA, (Heb. Charbona ', NJinn. ass-driver; in Esther vii, 9, 
run-in, Charbonah ,) one of the seven chamberlains of King Ahasuerus, or 

Xerxes, commanded by him to exhibit the beauty of Queen Vashti to his 
courtiers. Esther i, 10. He also suggested to the king the hanging of 
Haman. Chap, vii, 9. B. C. 519-510. 

HARBO'NAH, (Esther vii, 9.) See Harbona. 

HA'REPH, (Heb. Chareph', ?pn, plucking off,) the “father” of Beth- 

gader, and “son” of Caleb of Judah by one of his legitimate wives. 
1 Chron. ii, 51. B. C. about 1471. 

HARHATAH, (Hob. Charhayah ', IT HI PI, be was dry, or zeal of Jehovah ,) 

the father of Uzziel, “ of the goldsmiths,” which latter repaired part of the 
walls of Jerusalem after the captivity. Nell, iii, 8. B. C. 445. 

HAR'HAS, 2 Kings xxii, 14 ; given in 2 Chron. xxxiv, 22, as Hasrah, 
(q. v.) 

HAR'HUR, (Heb. Charchur irnn, burning fever,) one of the Nethinim 

whose posterity returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 51 ; Neh. 
vii, 53. B. C. before 536. 

HA'RIM, (Heb. Cha'rim , Q"in, fiat-nosed) 

1 . The head of the third course of priests as arranged by David. 1 Chron. 
xxiv, 8. B. C. 1015. 

2. An Israelite, whose descendants, to the number of 320 males, or 1,017 
in all, returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 32, 39 ; Neh. vii, 
35, 42. B. C. before 536. But among these some are enumerated (Ezra 
x, 21) as priests in the corresponding lists of those who renounced their 
Gentile wives, and others (Ezra x, 31) as ordinary Israelites. Schwarz and 
others consider Harim to be a place, and identify it with the village Gharim , 
situated eight English miles north-east of Jaffa. (M’Cli'ntock and Strong’s 
Cyclopaedia.) 

3. The father of Malchijah, who repaired part of the wall of Jerusalem. 
Neh. iii, 11. B. C. before 445. 

4. One of the priests who signed the sacred covenant of Nehemiah. Neh. 
x, 5. B. C. 445. 


192 


HARIPH — HASIIABIAH. 


5. A chief of the people who signed the covenant. Neh. x, 27. B. C. 
445. 

6. One of the priests who returned from Babylon. Neh. xii, 15. In the 
former list the name is changed to Rehum. Ver. 3. B. C. about 536. 

HAR'IPH, (Heb. Chariph ', Ppin, autumnal rain.) 

1. An Israelite, whose descendants, (or possibly a place whose inhabit- 
ants,) to the number of 112, returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Neh. 
vii, 24. Probably the same with Jorah. Ezra ii, 18. B. C. before 536. 

2. A chief of the people who gave his hand to the covenant made by Ne- 
hemiah. Neh. x, 19. B. C. 445. 

HARNETHER, (Heb. Charne'pher, ISinfi, snorer,) one of the sons of 
Zopliah, a chief of the tribe of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 36. 

HARO'EH, (1 Chron. ii, 52.) See Reaiah. 

HAR'SHA, (Heb. Charsha ', K^hn, worker, or enchanter ,) one of the Ne- 

thinim whose descendants (or rather, perhaps, a place whose inhabitants) 
returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 52 ; Neh. vii, 54. B. C. 
before 536. Schwarz {Palest., p. 116) thinks it may be identical with the 
ruins called by the Arabs Charsha, situated south of Wady Sur, about* half- 
way between Beit Jibrin (Eleutheropolis) on the west, and Jedur (Gedor) 
on the east. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia?) 

HA'RUM, (Heb. Har&m', Din, exalted,) the father of Aliarhel, the 

“ families ” of which latter are enumerated among the posterity of Coz, 
of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 8. B. C. before 1300. 

HARU'MAPH, (Heb. Charumaph ', r|£>nn, snub-nosed ,) “father” of 

Jedaiah, which latter was one of the priests who repaired part of the walls 
of Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 10. B. C. 445. 

HA'RUZ, (Heb. Charuts pin, eager,) a citizen of Jotbah, and father 

of Meshullemeth, who became the wife of King Manasseh and mother of 
King Amon. 2 Kings xxi, 19. B. C. 643. 

HASADI'AH, (Heb. Chasadyah iTlpn, favored by Jehovah,) one of the 

five sons of Zerubbabel mentioned in 1 Chron. iii, 20. Keil ( Commentary ) 
thinks that thi3 group was by a. different mother from those in ver. 19. 

HASBNU'AH, (Heb. nx^pn, « bristling ,) an Israelite of the tribe of 

Benjamin, whose descendants dwelt in Jerusalem after the captivity. 
1 Chron. ix, 7. B. C. before 536. 

HASHABFAH, (Heb. Chashabyah', iTp$n, whom Jehovah regards .) 

1. The son of Amaziah and father of Malluch, of the family of Merari. 
1 Chron. vi, 45. 

2. The son of Bunni and father of Azrikam, of the family of Merari. 
1 Chron. ix, 14; Neh. xi, 15. B. C. before 445. 

3. The fourth of the six sons of Jeduthun, (1 Chron. xxv, 3,) who had 
charge of the twelfth course of singers. Ver. 19. B. C, 1015. 


HASHABNAH — HASHUBAH. 


193 


4. A Hebronite, appointed by David on the west side of Jordan “ in all 
the business of the Lord, and in the service of the king.” 1 Chron. xxvi, 30. 
B. G. 1015. 

5. Son of Kemuel, and ruler of the Levites in David’s time. 1 Chron. 
xxvii, 17. Perhaps the same with No. 4. 

6. One of the chief Levites who made voluntary offerings of victims for 
the passover kept by King Josiah. 2 Chron. xxxv, 9. B. C. about 623. 

7. One of the Levites who responded to the invitation of Ezra to act as 
a minister in the house of the Lord. Ezra viii r 19. B. C. about 457. 

8. One of the chief priests into whose care Ezra intrusted the bullion 
and other valuables for the sacred vessels at Jerusalem. Ezra viii, 24. He 
is probably the same whose father, Hilkiah, is mentioned iu Neh. xii, 21. 
B. C. 457.' 

9. The son of Mattaniah and father of Bani. Neh. xi, 22. B. C. before 
445. 

10. A chief of the Levites, (Neh. xii, 24,) who repaired part of the walls 
of Jerusalem (chap, iii, 17) and subscribed the covenant of fidelity to Jeho- 
vah. Chap, x, 11. B. C. 445. 

HASHAB'NAH, (Heb. Cliashabnah ' rtJSETI probably for Hashabiah,) 

one of the chiefs of the people who subscribed Nehemiah’s covenant. Neh. 
x, 25. B. C. 445. 

HASHABNI'AH, (Heb. Chashabneyah', mum) 

TJ j • 

1. Father of Hattush, which latter repaired part of the walls of Jerusa- 
lem. Neh, iii, 1 0. B. C. before 445. 

2. A Levite who was among those who officiated at the solemn fast under 
Ezra and Nehemiah when the covenant was sealed. Neh. ix, 5. B. C. 445. 

HASHBAD'ANA, (Heb. Chashbaddanah njnBKTI, consider-aie judge.) 

one of those who stood at Ezra’s left hand while he read the law to the 
people. Neh. viii, 4. B. C. 445. 

HA'SHEM, (Heb. Hashem', fat) The sons of Hashero, the Gi- 

zonite, are named among the members of David’s guard. I Chron. xi, 34 ; 
the Jashen of 2 Sam. xxiii, 32. B. C. before 1047. 

HA'SHUB, (Heb. Chashshub', intelligent) 

1. The son of Pahath-moab, and one of those who repaired part of the 
walls of Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 11. B. C. 445. Perhaps he is the same person 
mentioned (Neh. x, 23) as one of the chief Israelites who joined in the 
sacred covenant of Nehemiah. 

2. Another who assisted in the building of the wall of Jerusalem. Neh. 
iii, 23. B. C. 445. 

3. A Levite, son of Azrikam and father of Shemaiah, which last was one 
of those resident in the “ villages of the Netophathites,’ T aud having general 
oversight of the temple. Neh. xi, 15; 1 Chron. ix, 14, in which latter pas- 
sage the name is more correctly Anglicized “ Hasshub.” (ii’Clintock and 
Strong’s Cyclopaedia) B. C. before 445. 

HASHU'BAH, (Heb. Chasubah', m$n, esteemed) one of the five sons 

of Zerubbabel, (Keil, Commentary) but according to some authorities: 


194 


HASHUM — HATTIL. 


(M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopedia) the son of Pedaiah, the descendant of 
David. 1 Chron. iii, 20. 

HA'SHUM, (Heb. Chashum ', DtiTI, rich.) 

\ T 

1. An Israelite whose posterity, (or perhaps a place whose inhabitants.) 
to the number of 223, came back from Babylon with Zerubbabel, (Ezra 
ii, 19,) or 328 in all. Neh. vii, 22. Seven men of them married foreign 
wives, from whom they separated. Ezra x, 33. B. C. before 536. 

2. One of those who stood up with Ezra while he read the book of the law 
to the people. Neh. viii, 4. B. C. about 445. 

3. The head of a family who sealed the covenant made by Nehemiah and 
the people. Neh. x, 18. B. C. 445. 

HASHU'FHA, (Neh. vii, 46.) See Hasupha. 

HAS'RAH, (Heb. Chasrah ', mon, poverty ,) the father (or mother) of 

Tikvath and grandfather of Shalluin, which last was husband of Huldah the 
prophetess. 2 Chron. xxxiv, 22. The parallel passage (2 Kings xxii, 14) 
gives the name, probably by transposition, in the form Harhas. Hasrah i3 
said to have been “ keeper of the wardrobe,” perhaps the sacerdotal vest- 
ments. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopedia.) B. C. before 624. 

HASSENA'AH, (Heb. Has-Senaah', njODn,) a Jew whose sons rebuilt 

the fish-gate in the repair of the walls of Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 3. B. C. 
before 445. In Ezra ii, 35, Neh. vii, 38, the name is given without the art. 
Sen a ah, (q. v.) 

HASU'PHA, (Heb. Chasupha', uncovered ,) one of the Nethinim 

whose descendants returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 43 ; 
Neh. vii, 46, in which latter passage the name is less correctly Anglicized 
Hashupha. B. C. before 536. 

HA'TACH, (Heb. Eathak ', Tjnn, perhaps vei'ity,) a eunuch in the palace 

of Xerxes, appointed to wait on Esther, and who acted for her in her com- 
munications with Mordecai. Esther iv, 5, 6, 9, 10. B. C. about 510. 

HA'THATH, (Heb. Chathath ', flfin, terror, as in Job vi, 21,) son of 

Othniel and grandson of Kenaz, of the tribe of Judah, (1 Chron. iv, 13,) 
consequently also grand-nephew and grandson of Caleb. See ver. 15, and 
compare Judg. i, 13. B. C. probably after 1490. 

HAT'IFHA, many HATTPHA, (Heb. Cliat'ipha , NHytpn, captured,) one 

of the Nethinim whose posterity returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. 
Ezra ii, 54; Neh. vii, 56. B. C. before 536. 

HAT'ITA, some HATI'TA, (Heb. Cliatita', KB'tpn, exploration ,) one of 

the “ porters ” (that is, Levitical temple/amfors) whose descendants returned 
from Babylon. Ezraii, 42; Neh. vii, 45. B. C. before 536. 

HAT'TIL, (Heb. ChattiV , waving ,) one of the descendants of 

“Solomon’s servants” whose posterity returned from Babylon with Zerub- 
babel. Ezra ii, 57 ; Neh. vii, 59. B. C. before 536. 


HATTUSH— HAZAEL. 


195 


HAT'TUSH, (Heb. Cliattush ', probably assembled .) 

1. One of the sons of Sheraaiah, among the posterity of Zerubbabel. 

1 Cliron. iii, 22. B. C. after 536. 

2. A descendant of David who accompanied Ezra to Jerusalem. Ezra viii, 2. 
B. 0. 457. 

3. Son of Hashabniah, and one of those who rebuilt the walls of Jeru- 
salem. Neh. iii, 10. B. C. 445. Perhaps identical with No. 2. 

4. One of the priests who united in the sacred covenant with Nehemiah. 
Nell, x, 4. B. C. about 445. 

5. A priest who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Neh. xii, 2. 
B. C. 536. 

HAV'ILAH, (Heb. Ckavilah', H^IT-) 

3. The second son of Gush. Gen. x, 7; 1 Chron. i, 9. B C. before 2218. 
2. The twelfth-named of the thirteen sons of Joktan. Gen. x, 29; 1 Chron. 
i, 23. B. C. perhaps about 2247. 

HA'ZAEL, (Heb. Ohazael ', ^XTn, whom God beholds, that is, cares for,) 

an officer of Benhadad, king of Syria, whom Elijah was commanded to 
anoint to be king in his stead. 1 Kings xix, 15. B. C. 906. (1) Consults 

Elisha. When Elisha was at Damascus, Hazael was sent by his master, 
then ill, to consult the prophet respecting his recovery. 2 Kings viii, 8. 
B. C. about 885. The answer was that he might certainly recover. “ How- 
beit,” added the prophet, “ the Lord hath showed me that he shall surely 
die.” He then looked steadily upon Hazael till he. became confused^ on 
which the man of God wept. Upon Hazael asking, “ Why weepeth my 
lord?” Elisha replied, “Because I know the evil that thou wilt do unto 
the children of Israel,” etc. Hazael exclaimed, “ But what is thy serv? 
ant, the (not a) dog, that he should do this great thing ? ” The prophet re- 
sponded, “ The Lord hath showed me that thou shalt be king over Syria.” 
(2) Kills Benhadad. Hazael returned and told Benhadad the prophet’s an- 
swer touching him. The next day he took a thick cloth, and, having dipped 
it in water, spread it over the face of the king, who, in his feebleness, and 
probably in his sleep, was smothered, and died what seemed a natural death. 

2 Kings viii, 15. (3) King. He ascended the throne, and was soon en- 

gaged in hostilities with Ahaziah, king of Judah, and Jehoram, king of Is- 
rael, for the possession of Ramoth-gilead. 2 Kings viii, 28. (4) Wars. The 

( Assyrian inscriptions show that about this time a bloody and destructive war 
was waged between the Assyrians on the one side, and the Syrians, Hittites, 
Hamathites, and Phoenicians on the other. Benhadad had recently suffered 
several severe defeats at the hands of the Assyrian king, and upon the ac- 
cession of Hazael the war was speedily renewed. Hazael took up a position 
in the fastnesses of the Anti-Libanus, but was there attacked by the Assyr- 
ians, who defeated him with great loss, killing 16,000 of his warriors, and 
capturing more than 1,100 chariots. The Syrians rapidly recovered their 
losses, and, toward the close of the reign of Jehu, Hazael led them against 
the Israelites, (B. C. about 860,) whom he “ smote in all their coasts,” 
(2 Kings x, 32,) thus accomplishing the prophecy of Elisha. 2 Kings viii, 12. 
His main attack fell upon the eastern provinces, where he ravaged “all the 
laud of Gilead, the Gadites, and the Reubenites, and the Hanassites, from 
Aroer, which is by the river Arnon, even Gilead and Bashau. 2 Kings x, 33. 
13 


196 


HAZAIAII — HEBER. 


He seems to have held the kingdom of Israel in a species of subjec'ion, 
(2 Kings xiii, 3-7, 22,) and toward the close of his life he even threat- 
ened the kingdom of Judah. Having taken Gath, (2 Kings x<i, 17,) he pro- 
ceeded to atiack Jerusalem, defeated the Jews in an engagement, (2 Chron. 
xxiv, 24,) and was about to assault the city, when Joasli induced him to 
retire by presenting him with a large ransom. 2 Kings xii, 18. (Smith, s. v.) 
This able and successful, but unprincipled, usurper left the throne, at his 
death, to his son, Benhadad. 2 Kings xiii, 24. B. C. 835. (M’Clintock and 
Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v.) 

HAZAI'AH, (Heb. Chazayah', rptn, whom Jehovah beholds ,) son of 

Adaiah and father of Colhozeh, a descendant of Pharez. Neh. xi, 5. B. C. 
before 536. 

HAZARMATETH, (Heb. Chatsar-maveth, court of death,) 

one of the sons of Joktan. Gen. x, 26 : 1 Chron. i, 20. B. C. about 2247. 
HAZELELPO'NI, or rather ZELEI/FONIj (Heb. hats-Tselelponi' , 
shade , looking upon me,) the sister of Jezreel and others of the 
sons of Etam, a descendant of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 3. B. C. about 1300. 
HA'ZIEL, (Heb. ChazieV , vision of God,) a “ son ” of the Ger- 

shonite Shimei, and chief of the family of Laadan. 1 Chron. xxiii, 9. B. C. 
about 1015. 

HA'ZO, (Heb. Chazo', ftn, perhaps for fiiTn, vision,) one of the sons of 

Nahor by Milcah. Gen. xxii, 22. B. C. about 1872. The only clew to the 
locality settled by him is to be found in the identification of Chesed. and 
the other sons of Nahor: and hence he must, in all likelihood, be placed in 
Ur of the Chaldees, or the adjacent countries. 

HEBER, the name of six men, with a difference of orthography in the 
original. See also Eber. 

1. (Heb. Che'ber . ‘inn, community ,) son of Beriah and grandson of Asher. 

Gen. xlvi, 17; 1 Chron. vii, 31, 32. B. C. about 1700. His descendants 
are called Heberites. Num. xxvi, 45. 

2. (Same Heb. word as last.) “ a descendant of Hobab, (q. v.,) whose wife, 
Jael, slew Sisera. Judg. iv, 17, sq. He is called Heber the Kenite, (Juclg. 
iv, 11, 17 ; v, 24,) which seems to have been a name for the whole family. 
Judg. i, 16. Heber appears to have lived separate from the rest of the 
Kenites, leading a patriarchal life. He must have been a person of some 
consequence, from its being stated that there was peace between the 
house of Heber and the powerful King Jabin. At the time the history 
brings him under our notice his camp was in the plain of Zaauaim, near Ke- 
desh, in Naphtali.” — Kitto. 

3. (Same Heb. word as last,) probably a son of Mered (of Judah) by Je- 
hudijah, and “father” of Socho. 1 Chron. iv, 18. B. C. probably before 
1300. 

4. (Heb. E'ber , “iny, of the other side, that is, of the river, immigrant,) the 

last-named of the seven chiefs of the Gadites in Bashan. 1 Chron. v, 13. 
B. C. before 1300. 


HEBRON — HELEM. 197 

5. (Same Heb. word as last,) one of the sons of Elpaal, and a chief of the 
tribe of Benjamin. 1 Chron. viii, 17. 

6. (Same Heb. word as last,) a Benjamite, and son of Shashak. 1 Chron. 
viii, 22. B. C. ante 598. 

HEB'RON, (Heb. Chebron', community.) 

1. The third son of Kohath, and a grandson of Levi; a younger brother 
of Amram, father of Moses and Aaron. Exod. vi, 18; Num. iii, 19; 
1 Chron. vi, 2, 18; xxiii, 12. B. C. before 1575. His descendants are 
called Hebronites. Num. iii, 27, etc. 

2. The son of Mareshah, and, apparently, grandson of Caleb, of the pos- 
terity of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 42, 43. B. C. about 1470. 

HE'GAI, or HEG'A-I, (Heb. Hegay ', 'jn, perhaps eunuch , or HE'GE, 

[Esther ii, 3,] Heb. same, fcOn, same,) the eunuch having charge of the 

* ** 

harem of Xerxes, and the preparation of the females sought as concubines 
for him. Esther ii, 8, 15. B. C. 518. 

HE'GE=Hegai, (Esther ii, 3,) (q. v.) 

HE'LAH, (Heb. Chelah', ilK^n, rust,) one of the two wives of Ashur, 

the father of Tekoah, by whom she had three sons. 1 Chron. iv, 5, 7. B. C. 
probably before 1300. 

HE I/DAI, (Heb. Cheldgy', v^n, worldly.) 

* - : v 

1. A Netophathite, and descendant of Othniel, chief of the twelfth divis- 
ion (24,000) of David’s forces. 1 Chron. xxvii, 15. B. C. about 1015. In 
1 Chron. xi, 30, (where he is called Heled.) his father’s name is said to be 
Baanah ; and in the parallel passage (2 Sam. xxiii, 29) he is called Heleb. 
(M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

2. One returned from the captivity, whom the prophet Zechariah was di- 
rected to take with him when he went to crown the high-priest Joshua as 
a symbol ol: the future Messiah’s advent. Zech. vi, 10. B. C. 519. The 
name is written Helem in ver. 14. (See HM1 and Delitzsch. Commentary.) 

HE'LEB, (Heb. Cheleb ', 3^n, fat, fatness ,) son of Baanah the Netopha- 

thite, and one of David’s warriors, (2 Sam. xxiii, 29 ;) elsewhere more cor- 
rectly called Heled, (1 Chron. xi, 30,) or, still better, Heldai, (q. v.) 1 Chron. 
xxvi, 15. 

HE'LED, (Heb. Cheledf, this world , or, according to Fiirst, con- 

tinuance of life.) son of Baanah, a Netophathite, and one of David’s warriors, 
(1 Chron. xi, 30 ;) called in the parallel passage (2 Sam. xxiii, 29 ) Heleb, but 
more accurately Heldai in 1 Chron. xxvii, 15. 

HE'LEK, (Heb. Che'leJc, p^n, a possession, or portion,) the second son of 

Gilead, of the tribe of Manasseh, whose descendants were called Helelcites, 
(Heb. Chtlki', Num. xxvi, 30; Josh, xvii, 2.) B. C. 1444. 

HE'LEM, (Heb. same, a stroke ,) the brother of Shamer and great- 

grandson of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 35. B. C. probably before 1491. Perhaps 
the same with Hotham. Yer. 32. 


198 


HELEZ— HEMDAN. 


2. (Heb. Clie'lem, &(?n, Chald. a dream, or robust, (one assisting Zechariah 

in typical crowning of the high-priest, (Zech. vi, 14 :) probably by errone- 
ous transcription tor Heldai. Yer. 10. 

HE'LEZ, (Heb. Che'lpts , J^n, or ^n, perhaps bin, or strong.) 

1. One of David’s mighty men, (2 Sam. *xiii, 26,) an Ephraimite of Pe- 
lon, (1 Chron. xi, 27,) and captain of the seventh monthly course. 1 Chron. 
xxyii, IQ. B. 0. about 1015. 

2. Son of Azariah and father of Eleasah, pf the tribe of Jpdah. 1 Chron. 
it, 39. B. 0. probably before 1017, 

HE 'Ll, (Or. ’H/U, for Heb. ty, ascent ,) the father-in-law of Joseph, and 
maternal grandfather of Christ. Luke iii, 23. B. C. before 22. See Joseph. 
HEL'KAI, (Heb. Chelkay', 'j^n, Jehovah his portion,) sop of Meraioth, 

and one of the chief priests in the time of the high-priest Joiakim. Neh. 
xii, 15. B. C. after 536. 

HE'LON, (Heb. Chelon ', £n, strong,) the father of Eliab, which latter 

was prince of the tribe of Zebulun at the Exode. Num. i, 9 ; ii, 7 ; vii, 
?4, 29 ; x, 16. B. Q. H91. 

HE'MAM, the son of Lotan, the eldest son of Seir. Gen. xxxvi, 22. 
The same as Homam, (q. v.) 

HE'MAN, (Heb. fleyman ', jD'H, faithful .) 

1. One of the four persons celebrated for their wisdom, to which that of 
Solomon is compared. 1 Kings iv, 31. B. C. perhaps abopt 1752. He is 
probably the same as the son of Zerah and grandson of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 6. 
The fact that these four are called in 1 Kings iv, 31, sons of Mahol , seems 

to oppose the supposition that they are identical ; but mahol, often 

elsewhere means a dance , and some have conjectured that the meaning here 
is sons of the dance. (Whedon, Coltomentary , in loop.) 

2. Son of Joel and grandson of Samuel ( Shemuel ) the prophet, a Kohath- 
ite, and one of the leaders of the temple music as organized by David. 
1 Chron. vi, 33, where singer should rather be rendered musician; xv, 17 ; 
xvi, 41, 42. B. C. about 1042. Tips, probably, is the Heman to whom the' 
eighty-eighth Psalm is ascribed. He had fourteen sons and three daughters. 
“Asaph, Heman, and Jgduthun are termed “seers” in 2 Chron. xxxv, 15, 
which refers rather to their genius as sacred musicians than to their pos- 
sessing the spirit of prophecy, (1 Chron. xv, 19; xxv, 1; 2 Chron. v, 12,) 
although there is not wanting evidence of their occasional inspiration.” — 
M’Cliutock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia. 

HE'MATH, (Heb. Chammath', fortress ,) a Kenite, ancestor of the 

Rechabites. 1 Chron. ii, 55. B. C. about 1471. 

HEM'DAN, (Heb. Chemdan ', jp^n, pleasant ,) the first-named of the 

four “ children ” of Dishon, which latter was a son of Seir, and one of the 
Horite “dukes” in Mount Seir. Qen. xxxvi, 26. B. C. about 1840. In 
1 Chron. i, 41, the name is, by an error of transcribers, written Amram. 


HEX— IiEHOD. 


109 


HEN, (Heb. Chen } JH, grace,) tlie son of Zephaniah, to whom the prophet 

was sent with a symbolical crown, (Zech. vi, 14;) probably a figurative 
name for Josiah. Yer. 10. “By the LXX and others the words are taken 
to mean 4 for the favor of the son of Zephaniah.’ ’’—Smith, Dictionary. 

HEN" AD AD, (Heb. Chenadad ', Yljn, favor of Hadad ,) a Levite whose 

sons were active in the restoration after the captivity. Ezra iii, 9. Two of 
the latter, Bavai and Binnui* are named. Neh. iii, 18, 24 ; x, 9. B. C. before 
536. 

HE'NOCH, (i Chron. i, 3, 33.) See Enoch. 

HE'PHER, (Heb. Che'pher , *lDn, a pit, well.) 

1. The youngest son of Gilead and great-grandson of Manasseh. Num. 
xxvi, 32. He was the father of Zelophehad, (Num. Xxvi, 33; xxvii, 1; 
Josh, xvii, 2, 3,) and his descendants were called Hepherites. Num. xxvi, 32. 
B. C. before 1452. 

2. The second son of Ashur (a descendant of Judah) by one of his wives* 
Naarah. 1 Ohron. iv, 6. B. C. after 1491. 

3. A Mecherathite* ohe of David's heroes, according to 1 Chron. xi, 36. 
The name does not appear in the list given in Samuel, and is supposed to 
be an interpolation, or identical with Eliphelet of 2 Sam. xxiii, 34. 

HEPH'ZI-BAH, (Heb. Cheptsi-bah' , FD'-'Van, my delight is in he?',) the 

queen of Hezekiah and mother of Xing Manasseh. 2 Kings xxi, 1. B. C. 
prooably 725-698. 

HE'RESH, (Heb. Chefresh, £hn, silence , artificer,) one of the Levites 

that dwelt in the “Villages of the Netophatliites,” near Jerusalem, on the 
return from captivity. 1 Chron. ix, 15. B. C. 536. 

HER'MAS, (Gr. ‘Ep//a<7, Mercury ,) a Christian resident at Rome to 
whom St. Paul sends greeting in Rom. xvi, 14. A. D. 55. Irenmus, Ter- 
tullian, and Origen agree in attributing to him the work called “ The Shep- 
herd,” but this is greatly disputed. He is celebrated as a saiut, in the Roman 
calendar, on May 9. 

HERMOG'ENES, (Gr. 'Eppoyevijs, Mercury -born ,) a disciple in Asia 
Minor mentioned by the apostle Paul, along with Phygellus, as having de- 
serted him, doubtless from fear of the perils of the connection. 2 Tim. i, 15. 
A. D. 64. 

HER'OD, (Gr. ‘Hpod^c, hero-like ,) the name of several persons of the 
royal family of Judea in the time of Christ and the apostles. Various ac- 
counts are given of the ancestry of the Herods ; but neglecting the exag- 
gerated statements of friends and enemies, it seems certain that they were 
of Idumean descent; but though aliens by race, the Herods were Jews by 
faith. The general policy of the whole Herodian family centered in the 
endeavor to found a great and independent kingdom. Religion was de- 
graded into the instrument of unscrupulous ambition. The family relations 
of the Herods are singularly complicated from the frequent recurrence of 
the same names, and the several accounts of Josephus are not consistent in 
every detail. 




200 


HEROD. 


The following table merely shows the relationship between those members 
of the Herodian family mentioned in the New Testament, and is taken from 
Kitto’s Bib. Cyclopaedia. 


GENEALOGICAL TABLE OF THE HERODIAN FAMILY. 


Doris. 


Autipater. 


Antipater, (Antipas.) 

Antipater, procurator of Judea, B. C. 47, 
to cypros, (an Arabian.) 

Hbrodks*-. Herod the king, died B. C. 4. 


Mariamne, 
granddaughter of 
Hyrcanus. 


Aristobulus, 
to Berenice. 


Agrippa I.,J 
to Cypros. 


Mariamne. Malthace, 

daughter or (a Samaritan.) 

Simon. 


HERODES,t Antipas, $ Archelaus. 

to Herodias. to daughter of Aretas; 

to Herodias. 


Cleopatra. 


Phii.ip II., | 
to Salome. 


Herodias, Herod, king of Chalcis, 

to Herod, (Philip I.;) to Mariamne, daughter 

to Herod Antipas. of Olympias ; 

to Berenice. 


Agrippa II. ^ Berenice, Drusilla, 

to Herod, king of Chalcis ; to Aziz, king of Emesa ; 

to Polemo, king of Cilicia. to Felix. 


1. Herod the Great was the second son of Antipater and Cypros, an 
Arabian lady of noble descent. (Josephus, Ant., xiv, 7, 3.) B. # C. about 62. 

1. Personal History. (1) Tetrarch. In B. C. 47 Julius Caesar made 
Antipater procurator of Judea, and the latter divided his territories among 
his four sons, assigning the district of Galilee to Herod. (Josephus, Ant., 
xiv, 9, 3 ; War , i, 10, 4.) One of his first acts was to repress the brigands 
who were infesting his kingdom, and to put many of their leaders to death 
upon his own authority. This was made known to Hyrcanus, and Herod 
was summoned to trial before the Sanhedrin. He, however, escaped and 
took refuge with Sextus Caesar, who soon appointed him governor of Coele- 
Syria. In B. C. 44, after- Caesar’s death, Cassius took the government of 
Syria, and was willingly assisted by Herod in obtaining the taxes levied 
upon the Jews for the support of the troops. For this Herod was con- 
firmed in the government of Coele-Syria. (Josephus, War , i, 11 , 4. (2) Flies 

to Rome. The invasion of the Parthians (B. C. 40) compelled Herod to 
give up Judea, fly to Rome, and seek the protection of Antony, then in 
great power. He obtained a decree from the Senate appointing him king of 
Judea, and, after a stay in Rome of only seven days, he returned to Jerusa- 
lem. (3) Jerusalem Taken. By the help of the Romans, after a six 
months’ siege, he took Jerusalem in B. C. 37, and completely established 
his authority throughout his dominions. (4) Revenge. Immediately on 


* Herod the king. Matt, ii, 1 ; Luke i, 5. 
t Philip I. Matt, xiv, 3 ; Mark vi, 17 ; Luke ill, 19. 

t Herod the tetrarch. Matt, xiv, 1, 3 ; Luke iii, 1, 19 ; ix, 7. The king. Matt, xiv, 9. King Herod* 
Mark vi, 14. 

§ Philip II. the tetrarch. Luke iii, 1. ( Herod the king. Acts xii. 

1 Kmg Agrippa. Acts xxv, 13 j xxvi, 1, tq. 


HEROD. 


201 


ascending the throne Ilerod pnt to death all the members of the Sanhedrin 
excepting Pollio and Sameas, (the famous Hillel and Shammai,) and also 
all the adherents of Antigonus who could be found, confiscating their prop- 
erty. He then gave the office of high-priest, which had become vacant by 
the death of Antigonus and the mutilation of •Hyrcanus, whose ears had 
been cut off by Antigonus, (compare Lev. xxi, 6-24.) to Ananel, an obscure 
priest from Babylon. Through the influence of Alexandra and Cleopatra 
lie was summoned by Antony to Laodicea to auswer for his conduct, but 
was dismissed with the highest honors. After the battle of Actium he 
visited Octavius at Rhodes, succeeded in winning his favor, and was con- 
firmed by him in the possession of his kingdom, (B. C. 31,) receiving the 
next year several important cities, and afterward the province of Trachonitis 
and the district of Paneas. (5) Cruelty. Herod’s domestic life was charac- 
terized by much bloodshed. Hyrcanus, the grandfather of his wife Mari- 
arane, was put to death before his visit to Octavius, and Mariamne fell a 
victim to his jealousy soon after his return. Not long after Alexander and 
Aristobulus, her sons, were put to death; and at last, in B. C. 4, Herod 
ordered hi3 oldest son, Antipater, to be killed. According to the well- 
known story, he commanded the nobles whom he had called to him in his last 
moments to be executed immediately alter his decease, that so at least his 
death might be attended with mourning. Near his death, too, he must have 
ordered the murder of the infants at Bethlehem. Matt, ii, 16-18. (6) Death. 
He died a few days before the Passover, (B. C. 4,) his death-bed being the 
scene of the most awful agonies of body and mind. He left his sous heirs 
to his kingdom by a formal testament, subject to the ratification of the em- 
peror. (7) Public Works. Herod introduced heathenish customs, such as 
plays, shows, and chariot-races, which the Jews condemned as contrary to 
the laws of Moses. He also established the Olympic games, and signalized 
his elevation to the throne by offerings to the Capitoline Jupiter. His coins, 
and those of his successors, bore only Greek legends ; and he introduced 
heathen games even within the walls of Jerusalem. Notwithstanding that 
he thus alienated his subjects from him, he greatly improved the country by 
the number of rtue towns and magnificent public buildings which he erected. 
His grandest undertaking was the rebuilding of the temple at Jerusalem. 
It was commenced in the eighteenth year of his reign, and the work was 
carried on with such vigor that the temple itself (vaog, that is, the holy 
house) was finished in a year and a half. (Josephus, Ant, xv, 11, 1, 6.) But 
additions and repairs were continually made, so that the Jews said to our 
Lord, “.Forty and six years was this temple in building.” John ii, 20. Thi3 
beautiful building did not win the hearts of the people, as is proved by the 
revolt which took place shortly before Herod’s death, when the Jews tore 
down the golden eagle which he had fastened to the temple. 

2. Character. The character of Herod is one of great diversity. His 
beneficence is shown by the benefits he lavished upon his people ; while his 
brutal cruelty is manifested in the treatment of his subjects and relatives. 
“ He was servile to Rome, confessing that he was endeavoring to please 
Caesar and the Romans, and that he was a Jewish prince only in name. He 
affected the dignity of a second Solomon, but joined the license of that sov- 
ereign to his magnificence. Bold and yet prudent, oppressive and yet pro- 
fuse, he had many of the characteristics which make a popular hero ; and 
the title which may have been first given in admiration of successful despot- 


202 


HEROD. 


ism now serves to bring out in clearer contrast the terrible price at which 
the success was purchased.” — M’Clintock and Strong’s Gyclapcedia. 



HEROD’S TEMPLE. 


2. Herod Antipas was the son of Herod the Great by Malthace, a Samari- 
tan. His father had originally destined him as his successor in the king- 
dom, but, by the last change in his will, appointed him “ tetrarch of Galilee 
and Perea.” Matt, xiv, 1 ; Lukeiii, 19; ix, 7 ; Acts xiii, 1 ; compare Luke iii, 1. 
He first married a daughter of Aretas, king of Arabia Petraea, but oh his way to 
Rome to visit his brother Philip, contracted an incestuous marriage with 
his wife Herodias, (q. v.) Aretas avenged the insult by invading the do- 
minions of Herod, and defeated him with great loss. Josephus thus speaks 
of this defeat : “ Some of the Jews thought that the destruction of Herod’s 
army came from God, and that very justly, as a punishment of what he did 
against John, that was called the Baptist: for Herod slew him, who was a 
good man.” — Ant ., xviii, 15, 2. This act was committed at the instigation 
of Herodias. Matt, xiv, 1-11; Mark vi, 17,#.; Luke iii, 19. In A. D. 38 
Herodias persuaded him to go to Rome to secure the title of king, but 
Agrippa, who was high in royal favor and had already secured this title, 
opposed him with such success that Antipas was condemned to perpetual 
banishment at Lyons, a city of Gaul, and eventually died in Spain, whither 
Herodias had voluntarily followed him. (Josephus, War , ii, 9, 6.) He is 
called king. Matt xiv, 9 ; Mark vi, 14. It was before Herod Antipas, who 
came up to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover, (compare Josephus, 
Ant., xviii, 6, 3,) that our Lord was sent for examination when Pilate heard 
that he was a Galilean ; and “ on the same day Pilate and Herod were made 
friends together.” Luke xxiii, 12. The name of Herod Antipas is coupled 
with that of Pilate in the prayer of the apostles mentioned in the Acts. 
Chap, iv, 24-30. Herod Antipas was in high favor with Tiberius, and 
hence gave the name of Tiberias to the city he built on the lake of Gennesa- 
reth. (Josephus, Ant., xviii, 2, 3.) He enlarged and improved several cities, 


Herod. 203 

and built A wall about Sepphoris and around Betharamphtha, which latter 
town he named Julias , iti honor of the wife of the emperor. 

Character. Herod’s personal character is little touched upon by either 
Josephus or the evangelists, but we see his cowardice, want of spirit, and 
fear of ridicule, in Consenting to the death of John the Baptist to gratify 
the malice of Herodias. Mark vi, 17,#. His love of sensation is shown 
by his desire to See Jesus, hoping •* to have seen some miracle done bj 
him.” Luke xxiii, 8. His artifice and cunning are alluded to by our Lord, 
“ Go ve and tell that fox." Luke Xiii, 32. (Smith, s. v .) 

3. Herod Philip I. was the son of Herod the Great by a second Mariamne, 
the daughter of Simon the high-priest. (Josephus, Ant., xviii, 5, 4,) and must 
be distinguished from Philip the tetrareh. His wife was Heredias* who, how- 
ever. contrary to the laws of her country, divorced herself from him and 
made an infamous marriage with Antipas. (Josephus, Ant., xviii, 5, 4 ; Matt, 
xiv, 3 ; Mark vi* 17 ; Luke iii, 19.) He Was excluded from all share in his 
father’s possessions when it Was discovered that his mother was conscious 
of the plots of Antipater. (Josephus, War, i, 30, 7.) 

4. Herod Philip II. was the son of Herod the Great and Cleopatra of Je- 
rusalem. Like his half-brothers, Antipas and Archeluus, he Was brought 
up in Rome. (Josephus, Ant., xvii, 1, 8.) He received, as his share of the 
empire, the tetrarchy of Batanea, Traconitis, Auranitis, and certaiti parts 
about Jamnia, with a revenue of 100 talents. (Josephus, Ant. , xvii, 11, 4.) 
The only mention of him in the New Testament is in Luke iii, 1, “ Philip 
tetrareh of Iturea,” etc. He built the city of Paneas, and named it Cse-a- 
rea, more commonly known as Cmsarea- Philippi, (Matt, xvi, i8 ; Mark 
viii, 27,) and also advanced Bethsaida to the dignity of a city, naming it 
Julias , in honor of the daughter of Augustus. He reigned thirty-seven 
years, (B. C. 4-A. D. 34,) showing himself to be a person of moderation 
and quietness in his life and government. (Josephus, Ant, xviii* 4. 6.) He 
died at Julias, and was buried in a monument he had there built. (Josepi us, 
Ant, xviii, 4, 6.) 

5. Herod Agrippa I. 1. Family. Herod Agrippa I. was the son of 
Aristobulus and Berenice, and the grandson of Herod the Great. He is 
called “Agrippa the Great” by Josephus, {Ant., ivii, 2, 2.) 

2. Personal History. (1) Early Life. He was Bent to Rome on his 
father’s execution, and was brought up with Drusus, the soil of Tiberius. 
He was only one year older than Claudius, who was born B. C. 10, and 
they were bred up together in the closest intimacy. The earlier part of his 
life was spent at Rome, where his magnificence and luxury involved him 
so deeply in debt that he was compelled to fly from Rome, and betook him- 
self to a fortress at Malatha, Idumea. Through the mediation of his wife, 
Cypros, and his sister, Herodias, he was allowed to take up his abode at 
Tiberias, and received the rank of sedile in that city with a small annuity. 
(Josephus, Ant, xvi, 6, 2.) Having quarreled with his brother-in-law, he 
fled to Flaccus, the proconsul of Syria. Soon afterward he was convicted, 
through the information of his brother, Aristobulus, of having received a 
bribe from the Damascenes to purchase his influence with the proconsul, 
and was again compelled to fly. He was arrested, escaped, and finally 
reached Puteoli, where he was favorably received by Tiberius ; but one day 
incautiously expressing the wish that Cains (Caligula) might soon succeed 
to the throne, he was arrested and thrown into prisoQ, where he remained 


204 


HEROD. 


till the accession of Cains, in A. D. 37. (Josephus, Ant., xviii, 6, 10 ) (2) As 
Ruler. The new emperor gave him the governments formerly held by the 
tetrarch Philip, and bestowed on him the ensigns of royalty and other 
marks of favor. Herod Antipas and his wife, Herodias, became jeal- 
ous because of the distinctions conferred upon Agrippa by the Romans, 
and sailed for Rome, hoping to supplant him in the emperor’s favor. 
Aware of their design, Agrippa accused Antipas of treasonable correspond- 
ence with the Parthians. Antipas went into exile, and Agrippa received 
from Caius the tetrarchy of Galilee and Perea. (Josephus, Ant., xviii, 7, 2.) 
In A. D. 41, for having greatly assisted Claudius, he received his whole 
paternal kingdom, (Judea and Samaria,) and, in addition, the tetrarchy of 
Lysanias II. Compare Luke iii, 1. Josephus says in one passage that 
Caius gave him this tetrarchy, {Ant., xviii, 6, 10,) but afterward, in two 
places, that Claudius gave it him. {Ant., xix, 5, 1; War , ii, 11, 5.) Caius 
probably promised it, and Claudius actually conferred it. (3) Relations 
with Judaism. Agrippa was a strict observer of the law, and sought, 
with success, the favor of the Jews. Arrived in Palestine to take posses- 
sion of his kingdom, one of his first acts was to visit the temple, where 
he offered sacrifice, and dedicated the golden chain which the late emperor 
had presented him after his release from captivity. It was hung over the 
treasury. Simon was made high-priest, and the house-tax was remitted. 
He resided very much at Jerusalem, and added materially to its prosperity 
and convenience. He commenced inclosing the northern suburb (Bezetha, 
or “ New Town”) in so substantial a manner as to excite the suspicions of 
Vibius Marsus, prefect of Syria, at whose instance the work was stopped 
by Claudius. (4) Persecutes the Church. Probably with a view of increas- 
ing his influence with the Jews, he persecuted the early Christians. He 
put to death James the elder. Acts xii, 1, 2. A. D. 44. Seeing that it 
pleased the Jews, he cast Peter into prison, no doubt with the intention of 
killing him also. This purpose was frustrated .by his miraculous deliver- 
ance from his jailers by the angel of the Lord. Acts xii, 3-19. (5) Death. 

Shortly after Herod celebrated some games at Caesarea in honor of the 
emperor. Upon the second day he appeared in the theater and made an 
oration to the people. He wore a royal robe made entirely of silver stuff, 
which shone in the morning light; whereupon his flatterers cried out, “It 
is the voice of a god, and not of a man.” He was suddenly seized with 
terrible pains, and being carried from the theater to the palace, died alter 
five days’ agony a loathsome death ; “ he was eaten up of worms and gave 
up the ghost.” Luke xii, 20-23. (Josephus, Ant, xix, 8, 2.) A.'D. 44. The 

miraculous and judicial character of his death is distinctly affirmed by the 
sacred historian : “ Immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because 
he gave not God the glory.” (See Kitto, Smith, M’Clintock and Strong’s 
Cyclopaedia.) 

3. Character. “ The leading principle of Agrippa’s life seems to have 
been to make himself agreeable to all persons whose favor was or might 
become of any advantage to him. He was, in fact, a complete man of the 
world, and as such he scrupled not to make the passions of other men, in 
which he had no share, and their prejudices, which he despised, the instru- 
ments of his own greatness.” — Kitto, Bible III. 

6. Herod Agrippa II. 1 . Personal History. Herod Agrippa II. was 
the son of Herod Agrippa I. and Cyprus. At the time of his father’s 


HERODIAS. 


205 


death (A. D. 44) he was only seventeen years of age, and resided at Rome. 
(1) Ruler. The emperor, who was very fond of him, gave him the kingdom 
of Chalcis, which wa3 vacant by the death of his uncle. A. D. 48.. This, 
four years after, was exchanged for the tetrarchies of Philip and Lysanias, 
(Josephus, Ant., xx, 7, 1,) with the title of king. Acts xxv, 13 ; xxvi, 2, 7. 
In A. D. 55 Nero gave him the cities of Tiberias and Taricheae in Galilee, 
and Julias, a city of Perea, with fourteen villages near it. (2) Public 
Works. Agrippa II. inherited the Herodian partiality for building. He 
much enlarged the city of Caesarea Philippi, and, in honor of Nero, called 
it Neronias. He also supplied large sums of money toward beautifying 
Jerusalem (which he encircled with the “third wall”) and Berytus, trans- 
ferring almost every thing that was ornamental from his own kingdom to 
this latter place. These acts rendered him most unpopular. (Josephus, Ant., 
xx, 9, 4.) In A. D. 60 King Agrippa and Berenice, his sister, with whom 
his relations were of a very doubtful character, came to Caesarea. Acts 
xxv, 13, sq. (3) Hears Paul. He had not been long there before Festus 
mentioned the case of Paul to him, and Agrippa was so far interested in 
the account given him as to desire to hear Paul for himself. Accordingly, 
the next day a high court was held, at which Festus and his two guests 
appeared in state. Agrippa having signified that the prisoner was per- 
mitted to speak for himself, the apostle began by expressing his satisfaction 
at having to vindicate himself before one so well versed as Agrippa in “ all 
customs and questions which are among the Jews.” He then proceeded to 
speak of the manner of his bringing up in the strictness of Judaism; his 
persecution of the believers in Jesus ; the great incident of his life — the 
vision on his way to Damascus which resulted in his conversion ; his com- 
mission to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles ; and of the hostility which 
the Jews entertained toward him because of his so doing. Festus looked 
upon all this as the effect of an excited imagination and over-study, and ex- 
claimed, “Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee 
mad 1 ” Paul denied the accusation, and turning to Agrippa addressed 
himself personally to the king, concluding with the words, “ King Agrippa, 
believest thou the prophets? I know thou believest.” Agrippa replied 
with the now well-known words, “ Paul, almost thou persuadest me to be a 
Christian.” A consultation was held between the rulers, and they decided 
that Paul “ might have been set at liberty if he had not appealed unto 
Caesar.” Acts xxvi. (4) Retirement and Death. In the last great rebell- 
ion of Judea he took part with Rome. With the destruction of Jerusalem 
(A. D. 70) an end was put to this last Jewish principality. Retaining, how- 
ever, his empty title as king, Agrippa survived the fate of his country in the 
enjoyment of splendid luxury, retired to Rome with Berenice, and there 
died in the seventieth year of his age, and in the third year of Trajan. 
A. D. 100. He was on intimate terms with Josephus, who gives two of hi3 
letters, (Life, 65,) and he was the last Jewish prince of the Herodian line. 

2. Character. The character of Agrippa II. seems to have been sim- 
ilar to that of his father. Self-glory, pomp, display, a love of worldly 
pleasure, together with an effort to make himself agreeable to those who 
might be of service to him, were all present in his disposition. He lived 
and died a man of the world. 

HERO'DIAS, (Gr. ‘H pudiac, feminine of ‘H pudyc, a female Herod,') 
daughter of Aristobulus, (one of the sous of Mariamne and Herod the 


206 


HERODION— HEZEKIAH. 


Great.) and. consequently, sister of Agrippa I. She first married Herod, 
surnarned Philip, another son of Mariamne and the first Herod, and there- 
fore her full uncle. She left him, while living, to marry her step-uncle, 
Antipas, whose wife was still alive. Herodias had one child, Salome, by 
Philip, and may have had more. John the Baptist remonstrated against 
the illicit marriage, and it would seem that the conscience of the tetrarch 
was less hardened than that of Herodias, for Matthew (xiv, 9) says he 
“was sorry;” Mark, (vi, 20,) that he “feared John . . . and heard him 
gladly.” The consequences of the crime are well known. Aretas made 
war upon Herod for the injury done to his daughter, and routed him with 
the loss of his Whole army. (Josephus, Ant., xvii, 5, 1.) The head of John 
the Baptist was granted at the suggestion of Herodias. Matt, xiv, 8-1 1 ; 
Mark vi, *24-28. According to Josephus, the execution took place in a 
fortress called Macheerus, on the frontier between the dominions of Aretas 
and Herod ; according to Pliny, looking down upon the Dead Sea from the 
south. In the closing scene of her career, indeed, Herodias exhibited 
considerable magnanimity, as she preferred going with Antipas to Lug- 
dunum, and there sharing his exile and reverses, to remaining with her 
brother, Agrippa I., and partaking of his elevation. (Josephus, Ant., xviii, 
7, 2; Smith, Dictionary.) 

HERO'DION, (Gr. ‘H podiwv, derived from Herod,) a Christian at Rome 
to whom Paul sent a salutation at his kinsman. Rom. xvi, 11. A. D. 55. 
According to Hippolytus he became bishop of Tarsus, but according to 
others, of Patra. 

HE'SED, (Heb. Che'sed , *JDn, kindness,) the name of a man whose son 

(Ben-Hesed)- was Solomon’s purveyor in the districts of Aruboth, Sochoh, 
and Hepher. 1 Kings iv, 10. B. C. before 1014. 

HETH, (Heb. Cheth, nn, terror, dread,) the forefather of the nation of 

the Hittites , called “ sons and children of Heth.” Gen. xxiii, 3, 5, 7, 10, 16, 
18, 20 ; xxv, 10 ; xlix, 32. Once we hear of the daughters of Heth. Gen. 
xxvii, 46. In the genealogical tables of Gen. x and 1 Chron. i, Heth is 
named as a son of Canaan, younger than Zidon, the first-born, but preced- 
ing the Jebnsite, the Amorite, and the other Canaanitish families. The 
Hutites were, therefore, a Hamitic race. B. C. about 2215. 

HEZEKI'AH, (Heb. Chizkiyah ', JTpfn, Jehovah strengthens.) 

1. The twelfth king (thirteenth reckoning Athaliah) of the separate king- 
dom of Judah. 

1. Family. Hezekiah was the son of Ahaz and Abi, (Abjah,) born 
B. C. 751-750. 2 Kings xviii, 1, 2 ; 2 Chron. xxix, 1. See Difficulties. 

2. Personal History. Hezekiah began to reign at the age of twenty- 

five years, and occupied the throne twenty-nine years. 2 Kings xviii, 2 ; 
2 pi iron. xxix. 1. B. C. 726-697. (1) Reform. His first act was to purge, 

repair, and re-open the temple, which had been neglected during the idola- 
trous reign of his father. This work was so thorough as not even to spare 
“ the high places,” which “ he removed, and brake the images, and cut down 
the groves.” A still more decisive act was the destruction of a brazen 
serpent, said to have been the one used by Moses in the miraculous healing 
of the Israelites, (Num. xxi, 9,) which had become an object of adoration. 


HEZEKIAH. 


207 


The history of this reformation is given at length in 2 Chron. xxix, sq. Itj, 
commenced with the cleansing of the templer “ in the first month ” of Heze- 
kiah’s first year, that is, in the month Nisan next after his accession, and 
was followed in the next month (because at the regular season neither Le- 
vites nor temple were in a state of preparation) by a great Passover, ex-, 
tended to fourteen days, to which not only all Judah was summoned, but 
also the “ remnant” of the Ten Tribes, some of whom accepted the invita- 
tion. (2) Wars. Hezekiah early (B. C. about 725) assumed the aggressive 
against the Philistines, and not only retook the cities which his father had 
lost, (2 Chron. xxviii, 18,) but even dispossessed them of their own cities, 
except Gaza (2 Kings xviii, 8) and Gath. (Josephus, Ant., ix, 13, 3.) He also 
rebelled against the king of Assyria, refusing to pay tribute or send pres- 
ents, (2 Kings xviii, 7,) using every available means to strengthen his po- 
sition and render his capital impregnable. 2 Kings xx, 20 ; 2 Chron. xxxii, 
3-5, 30 ; Isa. xxii, 8-11 ; xxxiii, 18. Sargon was succeeded by his sou 
Sennacherib, whose two invasions occupy the greater part of the Scripture 
records concerning the reign of Hezekiah. The first of these took place 
in the third year of Sennacherib, (B. C. 702,) and occupies only three verses. 
2 Kings xviii, 13-16. The rumor of the invasion redoubled Hezekiah’s 
exertions, and he prepared for a siege by providing offensive and defensive 
armor, stopping up the wells, and diverting the water-courses, conducting 
the water of Gihon into the city by a subterranean canal. Ecclus. xlviii, 17. 
But the main hope of the political faction was the alliance with Egypt, and 
they seem to have sought it by presents and private entreaties. Isa. xxx, 6. 
The account given of this first invasion in the Annals of Sennacherib is that 
he attacked Hezekiah because the Ekronites had sent their king, Padiya, 
(or “Haddiya,”) as a prisoner to Jerusalem, (cf. 2 Kings xviii, 8;) that he 
took forty-six cities (“all the fenced cities” in 2 Kings xviii, 13, is appar- 
ently a general expression, cf. xix, 8) and 200,000 prisoners ; that he be- 
sieged Jerusalem with mounds, (cf. 2 Kings xix, 32 ;) and although Heze- 
kiah promised to pay 800 talents of silver (the Scripture narrative, 2 Kings 
xviii, 14, says 300 of silver and 30 of gold,) yet, not content with this, lie 
mulcted him of a part of his dominions, and divided it among the kings of 
Ekron, Ashdod, and Gaza. In almost every particular this account agrees 
with the notice in Scripture. Hezekiah’s bribe (or fine) brought a tempo- 
rary release, for the Assyrians marched into Egypt, where Sennacherib was 
thwarted by Tirhakah, or Tarakos. On his return he “ dealt treacherously ” 
with Hezekiah (Isa. xxxiii, 1) by attacking the stronghold of Lachish. This 
was the commencement of that second invasion, respecting which we have 
such full details in 2 Kings xviii, 17, sq. ; 2 Chron. xxxii, 9, sq. ; Isa. xxxvi. 
Although the Annals of Sennacherib on the great cylinder in the British Mu- 
seum reach to the end of his eighth year, and this second invasion belongs 
to his fifth year, (B. C. 698, the twenty-eighth year of Hezekiah,) yet no 
allusion to it has been found. So shameful a disaster was naturally con- 
cealed by national vanity. From Lachish he sent against Jerusalem an 
army with a blasphemous and insulting summons to surrender. Hezekiah’s 
ministers were thrown into anguish and dismay, but the undaunted Isaiah 
hurled back threatening for threatening with unrivaled eloquence and force. 
Meanwhile Sennacherib, having taken Lachish, was* besieging Libnah, 
when, alarmed by a “ rumor ” of Tirhakah’s advance, he was forced to re- 
linquish once more his immediate designs, and content himself with a defi- 


208 


HEZEKIAH, 


ant letter to Hezekiah. The Jewish king, with simple piety, prayed to God 
with Sennacherib’s letter outspread before him, and received a prophecy of 
immediate deliverance. Accordingly « that night the angel of the Lord 
went out, and smote in the camp of theAssyrians ” 185,000 men. 2 Kings 
xix, 35. (3) In Peace. Hezekiah assiduously cultivated the arts of peace 

and, by wise management of finance and the attention which he paid to ag- 
riculture and increase of flocks and herds, he became possessed of much 
wealth. 2 Cliron. xxxii, 27-29; 2 Kings xx, 13; Isa. xxxix, 2. Hezekiah 



POOL OP HEZEKIAH, 


2 r ‘ )v t J d the wat er supply of Jerusalem, first introduced by Solomon cov- 

Snel LtX%ilf 2 °Ph the Gih01 \ an ? Ringing ^ byl subterrinean 
Vi Ch - xxxii, 3 ; Isa. xxii, 11. (Keil. Commentary .) 
inis was stored n the large reservoir still called after Hezekiah fEwahl 
History of Israel in, p 254.) Himself a sacred poet, and probab y the author 
of other psalms be^es that in Isa. xxxviii, he seems to have collected the 
p. 1ms of David and Asaph for the temple worship, and certainly employed 
competent senbes to complete the collection of Solomon's Cverbs K 


HEZEKIAH. 


209 


xxv, 1. He appears also to have given orders for the preservation of gene- 
alogical records. (4) Sickness. “In those days was Hezekiah sick onto 
death.” 2 Kings xx, 1; 2 Ohron. xxxii, 24; Isa. xxxviii, 1. Hezekiah, 
whose kingdom was still in a dangerous state from fear of the Assyrians, 
and who had at that time no heir, u turned his face to the wall and prayed 
unto the Lord.” God had compassion on his anguish, and heard "his 
prayer. Isaiah had hardly left the palace when he was ordered to promise 
the king immediate recovery, and a fresh lease (fifteen years) of life, ra li- 
ning the promise by a sign, (see Difficulties,) and curing the boil by a 
plaster of figs. 2 Kings xx, 1, sq.; Isa. xxviii, 1. sq . Various embassadors 
came with letters and gifts to congratulate Hezekiah on his recovery, 
(2 Chron. xxxii, 23,) and among them an embassy from Merodach-baladan, 
(or Berodach.) 2 Kings xx, 12. The pretended object of this mission was 
to compliment Hezekiah upon his convalescence, (2 Kings xx, 12 ; Isaiah 
xxxix, 1,) but it certainly had also the secret political object of making 
common cause with Hezekiah to throw off the Assyrian yoke. Hezekiah 
received the overtures of Babylon with unconcealed gratification ; and, per- 
haps to enhance the opinion of his owu importance as an ally, displayed to 
the messengers his princely treasures. The consequences of this coquet- 
ting with the strangers and vain display are pointed out in Isa. xxxix, 3-8. 
(5) Death. After the destruction of the Assyrians Hezekiah lived to enjoy 
for about one year only his well-earned peace and glory. He died, after a 
reign of twenty -nine years, in the fifty- fourth year of his reign. 2 Kings 
xx, 21. B. C. 697. 

3. Character. The prominent characteristics of Hezekiah were his trust 
in God and disposition to render him suitable honor and service. 2 Kings 
xviii, 4-6. Nor was he wanting in courage, 'as is shown in the stem 
measures adopted to reform the religion of his people as well as his revolt 
from theAssyrian king. His belief in prayer is seen by his earnest calling 
upon God during his illness, and upon the reception of Sennacherib's blas- 
phemous letter. In later times he was held in honor as the king who had 
“ after him none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor any that were 
before him,” (2 Kings xviii, 5 ;) in Jer. xxvi, 19, the elders of the land cite 
him as an example of pious submission to the word of the Lord spoken by 
Micah; and the son of Sirach closes his recital of the kings with this judg- 
ment — that of all the kings of Judah, “ David, Hezekiah, and Josiah alone 
transgressed not, nor forsook the law of the Most High.” Eeelus. xlix, 4. 

Difficulties— (1) Time of Passover, 2 Chron. xxix, 3, sq. “ The statement, 
‘in the first year of his reign, in the first month,’ i3 sufficiently explained if Heze- 
kiah ascended the throne in one of the last months of the calendar year, which be- 
gan with Nisan. In that case, on the first of Nisan of the new year, so few months, 
or perhaps only weeks, would have elapsed since his accession, that what he did 
in Nisan could not rightly have been dated otherwise than ‘ the first year of his 
reign.’ ” — Keil, Commentary. “ It (the Reformation) commenced with the cleans- 
ing of the temple ‘ in the first month ’ of Hezekiah’s first year, that is, in the 
month Nisan next after his accession, and was followed in the next month (be- 
cause at the regular season neither Levites nor temple were In a due state of 
preparation) by a great Passover, extended to fourteen days.” — Kitto. (2) Sign, 
Isa. xxxviii, 7, 8. “ The step-dial of Ahaz may have consisted of twenty steps or 
more, which measured the time of day by half-hours, or even quarters. If the 
sign was given an hour before sunset, the shadow, by going back ten steps of 
half an hour each, would return to the pointat which it stood.” “ When itisstated 
that ‘the sun returned,’ this does not mean the sun in the heaven, but the sun 
upon the sun-dial, upon which the illumined surface moved upward as the shadow 


210 


IIEZION — HILKIAH. 


retreated ; for when the shadow moved back, the sun moved back as well. The 
event is intended to be represented as a miracle ; and a miracle it really was.” 
(See Smith, Kitto, M’Clintock and Strong.) 

2. The second of the three sons of Neariah, a descendant of Salathiel, 
(1 Chron. iii, 23 ;) probably a brother of the Esli of Luke iii, 25, and also of 
Azor of Matt, i, 13. B. C. after 536. 

3. The children of “ Ater of Hezekiah,” to the number of 98, returned 
from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Neh. vii, 21. In Neh. x, 11, his name 
(Anglicized “ Hizkijah ”) appears in a similar connection (but without the 
connective “ of ”) among those who subscribed the covenant of Nehemiah. 
B. C. before 536. 

HE 'ZION, (Heb. Chezyon', JVfn, vision, the father of Tabrimon, and 

grandfather of Ben-hadad I., to whom Asa sent silver and gold from the 
sacred treasury to secure his aid against Baasha. 1 Kings xv, 18. B. C. 
before 940. In the absence of all information, the natural suggestion is that 
he is the same person as Rezon, the contemporary pf Solomon, (1 Kings 
xi, 23,) the two names being very similar in Hebrew, and still more so in 
the versions. (Smith.) 

i HE'ZIR, (Heb. Chezir', “pin, swine.) 

1 f he head of the seventeenth course of priests as established by David. 
1 Chron. xxiv, 15. B. C. 1015. 

2. One of the heads of the people who sealed the solemn covenant with 
Neliemiah. Neh. x, 20. B. 0. 445. 

HEZ'RAI, (Heb. nm walled in,) (2 Sam. xxiii, 35,) the same as 
Hezro, (q. v.) " ! r • 

HEZ'RO, (Heb. Chetsro ', 1"lVn, inclosed,) a Carmelite, one of David’s 

mighty men. 1 Chron. xi, 37. B. C. 1048. He is callecl in the margin and 
in 2 Sara, xxiii, 35, Hezrai, (q. v.) 

HEZ'RON, (Heb. Ghetsron', }i"pfn, inclosed, or blooming .) 

1. The third son of Reuben. Gen. xlvi, 9 ; Exod. vi, 14 ; 1 Chron. iv, 1 ; 
v, 3. His descendants vye re called Hezronites. Hum. :$xvi, 6. B. C. 1706. 

2. The elder of the two sons of Pharez. and grandson of Judah. Gen. 
xlvi, 12; Ruth iv, 18, 19; 1 Chron. ii, 5, 9, 18, 21, 24, 25. He is called 
Esrorn in Matt, i, 3. B. C. 1706. His descendants were also called Hezron- 
ites. Num. y|, 21. 

HID'DAI, (Heb, Hidday ', v nn, mighty,) one of the “ thirty ” heroes of 

David, “ of the brooks of Gaash.” 2 Sam. xxiii, 30. In 1 Chron. (xi, 32) he 
is given as Hurai, (q. v.) B. C. 1018. 

HI'EL, (Heb. ChieV, life from God,) a native of Bethel, who rebuilt 

Jericho in the reign of Ahab, (1 Kings xvi, 34,) and in whom was fulfilled 
the curse pronounced by Joshua. Josh, vi, 26. B. C. 918. 

HILKI'AH, (Heb. Chilkiyah', n s j^n, portion of Jehovah.) 

1. The father of Eliakim, who was overseer of the household in the time 
of Hezekiah. 2 Kings xviii, 18, 26, 37 ; Isa. xxii, 20; xxxvi, 3, 22 ; xxxvii, 2. 
B. C. before 7 13. 


HILLEL — HIRAM, 


211 


2. High-priest in the reign of Josiah. 2 Kings xxii, 4, sq. ; 2 Cliron. 
xxxiv, 9, sq. According to the genealogy in 1 Cliron. vi, 13, (see Neh. 
xi, 11.) he was son of Shallum, and from Ezra vii, 1. apparently the ancestor 
of Ezra the scribe. His high -priesthood was rendered particularly illustri- 
ous by the great reformation effected under it by King Josiah, (2 Kings 
xxiii, 4, sq.; 2 Chron. xxxiv, 9, sq. ;) by the solemn Passover kept at Jerusa- 

* lem in the eighteenth year of the king’s reign, (2 Chron. xxxv, 1, sq.;) and 
above all by the discovery which he made in the house of the Lord of a 
book which is called “ the Book of the Laws,” (2 Kings xxii, 8,) and “ the 
Book of the Covenant.” 2 Kings xxiii, 2. B. C. 634. 

Difficulties.— A difficult and interesting question arises : What was the book 
found by Hilkiah ? Kenuicott is of opinion that it was the original autograph 
copy of the Pentateuch written by Moses which Hilkiah found, but his argument 
is far from conclusive. Our means of answering this question seem to be limited, 
_ (1) To an examination of the terms in which the depositing the book of the law by 

the ark was originally enjoined ; (2) To an examination of the contents of the 
books discovered by Hilkiah, as far as they transpire ; (3) To any indications 
which may be gathered from the contemporary writings of Jeremiah, or from any 
other portions of Scripture. A consideration of all these points raises a strong 
probability that the book in question was the book of Deuteronomy.— Smith. 
The probability is that the book found by Hilkiah was the same which was in- 
trusted to the care of the priests, and was to be put in the side of the ark, (Deut. 
xxxi, 9-26,) and that this was the entire body of the Mosaic writing and not any 
part of it, seems the on’y tenable conclusion.— Kitto. 

3. A Merarite Levite, the son of Amzi and father of Amaziah. 1 Chron. 
vi, 45. B. C. before 1014. 

4. The second son of Hosah, a Merarite, appointed by David as door- 
keeper of the tabernacle. 1 Chron. xxvi, 11. B. C. about 1015. 

5. One of those who stood at the right hand of Ezra while he read the 
law to the people. Neh. viii, 4. B. C. about 445, (410, M’Clintock and 
Strong.) 

6. One of the chief priests who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel 
and Jeshua. Neh. xii, 7. His son Hashabiah is named in verse 21. B. C. 
536. 

7. A priest of Anathoth, and father of the prophet Jeremiah. Jer. i, 1. 
B. C. 629. 

8. Father of Gemariah, who, with Elasah, was sent by Zedekiah with a 
message to the captives at Babylon. Jer. xxix, 3. B. C. before 599. 

HIL'LBL, (Heb. Hittel', f>^n, praising ,) a Pirathonite, and father of the 
judge Abdon. Judges xii, 13. B. C. before 1120. 

HIN'NOM, (Heb. Hinnom ', D3H, fall of favor, abundant ,) an unknown 

person whose name is given to the “ Yalley of Hinnom,” (Josh, xviii, 16; 
Neh. xi, 30;) elsewhere (Josh, xv, 8; 2 Kings xxiii, 10; 2 Chron. xxxiii, 
6, etc.) called “ the valley of the son,” or, “ children of Hinnom.” 

HI'RAH, (Heb. Chirah', rrm, nobility,) an Adullamite, and friend of 
Judah. Gen. xxxviii, 1, 12 ; comp. ver. 20. B. C. about 1729. 

HI'RAM, (Heb. Ghiram', DTT1, high-born ; generally written “ Huram ” 
[Heb. DTin, Churam / ~\ in Chronicles, and “ Hirom ” [Heb. DlTn, Ghiromf\ 

in 1 Kings v, 10, 18 ; vii, 40.) 

14 


212 


HIRAM 


1. King of Tyre, who sent an embassy to David after the latter had con- 
quered the stronghold of Zion and taken up his residence in Jerus-ilem. 
It seems that tiie dominion ol this prince extended oyer the western slopes 
of Lebanon ; and when David built himself a, palace, Hiram materially as- 
sisted the work by sending cedar-wood from Lebanon, and skillful work- 
men to Jerusalem. 2 Sam. v, II ; 1 Cliron. xiv. 1. B. 0. 1043. It was 
probably the same prince who sent an embassy of condolence and congratu- 
lation when David died and Solomon ascended the throne. In eonsidera- 



TYRE. 


tion of large quantities of corn, wine, and oil sent him by Solomon, the 
lung of Tyre furnished from Lebanon the timber required for the temple 
delivering it at Joppa, the port of Jerusalem. 1 Kings v, 1, sq. ; ix, 11, sq. ; 
2 Chron. ii, 3, sq. He also supplied large quantities of gold, 'and received 
from Solomon in return twenty towns in Galilee, (1 Kings ix, 11-14 ) which 
when he came to inspect them, pleased him so little that he applied to them a 
name of contempt, ( Cdbul ,) and restored them to Solomon. 1 Kings ix, 12, 
13 ; 2 Chron. viii, 2. It does not, however, appear that the good under- 


HIZK1AH — niZKIJAH. 


213 


standing between the two kings was broken by this unpleasant circum- 
stance, for it was after this that he admitted Solomon’s ships to a share in 
the profitable trade of the Mediterranean, (1 Kings x, 22;) and Jewish 
sailors, under the guidance of Tyrians, were taught to bring the gold of 
Ophir(l Kings ix, 26-28) to Solomon’s two harbors on the Red Sea. Dius, 
the Phoenician historian, and Menander of Ephesus, assign to Hiram a 
prosperous reign of thirty-four years; and relate that his father was 
Abibal, his son and successor Baleazar. Others relate that Hiram, bes des 
supplying timber for the temple, gave his daughter in marriage to Solomon. 
(See M’Clintock and Strong.) Some have regarded this Hiram as a differ- 
ent person from the friend of David, arguing from the long reign necessary, 
if he was the same who assisted David to build his house. Dr. Thomson 
describes a remarkable monument (called “Hiram’s tomb”) still extant, 
which he passed a little beyond the village of Hanaweih. (Thomson, 
Land and Book , i, 290, sq.) 



HIRAM’S TOMB. 


2. The son of a widow of the tribe of Naphtali, and of a Tyrian father. 
He was sent by King Hiram to execute the principal works of the interior of 
the temple, and the various utensils required for the sacred services. 

1 Kings vii, 13, 14, 40. It is probable that he was selected for this purpose 
by the king, in the notion that his half-Hebrew blood would render him the 
more acceptable at Jerusalem. B. C. about 1005. 

HIZKI'AH, (Heb. Chizkiyah ', IT pin,) an ancestor of Zephaniah the proph- , 
et. Zeph. i, 1. B. C. before 630 T * : ’ 

HIZKI'JAH, (Heb. Ghizldyah fijptn,) according to the punctuation of 

the Authorized Version, a man who sealed the covenant of reformation 
with Ezra and Nehemiah. Neh. x, 17. But there is no doubt that the 
name should be taken with that preceding it, as “ Ater-Hizkijah,” a name 
given in the lists of those who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. 
Smith, 5. v. See Hezekiah. 


214 


HOBAB — HODIJAH. 


HO'BAB, (Heb. Chobab beloved ,) the son of Raguel the Midian- 

ite. Num. x, 29; Judg. iv, 11. B. 0. 1490. He has usually been identi- 
fied with Jethro, (see Exod. xviii, 5, 27, compared with Num. x, 29, 30 ;) 
but it is rather his father, Reuel, to whom the title “ Moses’s father-in- 
law ” is intended to apply in Num. x, 29. That Jethro and Reuel (Raguel) 
were names of the same person seems evident from Exod. ii, 18, 21 ; iii, 1. 
Hobab would, therefore, be the brother-in-law of Moses. When Jethro re- 
turned to his home (Exod. xviii, 27) Moses prevailed upon Hobab to remain 
(as seems implied by the absence of any refusal to his second importunity 
in Num. x, 32) and act as guide through the desert. We find his descend- 
ants among the Israelites. Judg. iv, 11. 

HOD, (Heb. same, lin, majesty ,) one of the sons of Zophah, of the tribe 
of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 37. B. C. before 1017. 

HODAI'AH, (Heb. Hodayeva'hu, snv^in, more correctly, Eodavya'hu } 

Jirrnin,) the first-named of the seven sons of Elioenai, of the descendants 

of Zerubbabel, (1 Chron. iii, 24 ;) probably a brother of the Nahum of Luke 
iii, 25. M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopcedia. 

HODAVTAH, (Heb. Hodavyah , iTYlin, praise of Jehovah ; or perhaps, 
JTVTin, praise ye Jehovah.) T; ~ 

1. One of the chief men of the tribe of Manasseh, east of Jordan at the 
time of the Assyrian captivity. 1 Chron. v, 24. B. C. about 740. 

2. Son of Hasennah and father of Meshullam, of the tribe of Benjamin. 
1 Chron. ix, 7. B. C. before 536. 

3. A Levite. whose descendants (to the number of 74) returned from 
Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 40. B. C. before 536. In the parallel 
passage, (Neh. vii, 43,) his name is written Hodevah. He is probably the 
same as Judah. Ezra iii, 9. 

HO'DESH, (Heb. Cho'desh, KHh, a month ,) one of the wives of Shaha- 

raim, of the tribe of Judah, several of whose children are enumerated 1 Chron. 
viii, 9, called in ver. 8 more correctly Baara, (q. v.) 

j HODE'VAH. Neh. vii, 43. See Hodaviah, 3. 

HODI'AH, (Heb. nnifl,) the same as Hodijah, (q. v.,) one of the two 

wives of Mered, (1 Chron. iv, 19,) and the mother of Jered and Heber and 
Jekuthiel, where she is called Jehudijah, (■T'LTn, the Jewess , that is, his 

Jewish wife, as distinguished from Bithiah, who was an Egyptian.) 
HODI'JAH, (Heb. Hodiyah\ rpliil, majesty of Jehovah.) 

1. One of the Levites who assisted Nehemiah in expounding the law. 
Neh. viii, 7 ; ix, 5. From the association of his name in Neh. x, 10, with 
some of those mentioned in connection with his in chap, viii, 7, we conclude 
that he is the same person. B. C. 445. 

2. Another Levite mentioned in Neh. x, 13, as one of those who signed 
the covenant with Nehemiah. 

3. One of the Israelites who became parties with Nehemiah in the sacred 
covenant. Neh. x, 18. 


HOGLAII— HOSEA, 


215 


HOG'LAH, (Heb. Choglah', r6pn, partridge,) the third of the five 

daughters of Zelophehad the Gileadite, to whom, in the absence of male 
heirs, portions were assigned by Moses. Num. xxvi, 33; xxvii, 1; xxxvi, 
11 ; Josh, xvii, 3. B. 0. 1452. 

HO'HAM, (Heb. Hoham Enin, whom Jehovah impels,) the king of 

Hebron, who joined the league against Gibeon, but was overthrown in battle 
by Joshua and slain after being captured in the cave of Makkedah. Josh, 
x, 3. B. C. 1451. 

HO'MAM, (Heb. Homam', D£>ii"l, destruction ,) one of the sons of Lotan, 

and grandson of Seir the Horite. 1 Chron. i, 39. B. C. about 1840. In 
the parallel passage (Gen. xxxvi, 22) his name is written Hemam. 
HOPH'NI, (Heb. Chopni', 'JSrij a fighter ,) the first-named of the two 

sons of the high-priest Eli, (1 Sam. i, 3 ; ii, 34,) who fulfilled their heredi- 
tary sacerdotal duties at Shiloh. Their brutal rapacity and lust, which 
increased with their father’s age, (1 Sam. ii, 12-17, 22,) filled the people with 
indignation, and provoked the curse which was denounced against their 
father’s house, first by an unknown prophet, (vers. 27-36,) and then by the 
youthful Samuel. 1 Sam. iii, 11-14. They were both slain on the same 
day, and the ark was captured by the Philistines. 1 Sam. iv, 10, 11. B. 0. 
1141. The Scriptures call them “ sons of Belial.” 1 Sam. ii, 12. (See Smith.) 
HO'RAM, (Heb. Horam', Qnh, height, lofty,) the king of Gezer, who, 

coming to the relief of Lachish, was overthrown by Joshua. Josh, x, 33. 
B. C. 1451. 

HO'RI, (Heb. Chori', 'in? or '"lin, dweller in caves.) 

1. A son of Lotan and grandson of Seir. Gen. xxxvi, 22 ; 1 Chron. i, 39. 
B. C. about 1840. 

2. In Gen. xxxvi, 30 , “ Hori ” has in the original the article prefixed, that 
is, the Horite; and is the same word with that which in vers. 21, 29, is 
rendered in the Authorized Version “ the Horites.” (Smith, Dictionary.) 

3. A Simeonite, whose son Shaphat was the commissioner of his tribe, 
sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. Num. xiii, 5. B. C. 1490. 

HOS'AH, (Heb. Chosah', HDh. refuge ,) a Levite of the family of Merari, 

who, with thirteen of his relatives, was appointed door-keeper to the ark 
after its arrival in Jerusalem. 1 Chron. xvi, 38. In the later distribution 
(chap, xxvi, 10, 11, 16) the gate Shallecheth, on the west side of the temple, 
fell to him. B. C. 1014. 

HOSE 'A, (Heb. Hoshe'a , deliverance ,) son of Beeri, (Hos. i, 1, 2,) 

the first of the Minor Prophets as they appear in the Authorized Version. 
(1) Time. He prophesied during a long and eventful period, commencing 
in the days of Jeroboam, the son of Joash, extending through the lives of 
Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and concluding in the reign ofHezekiah. As Jero- 
boam died B. C. 782, and Hezekiah ascended the throne 726, we have the 
round term of about sixty years, B. C. about 784-724, as the probable space 
of time covered by the utterances of these predictions. This long duration 
of office is not improbable, and the book itself furnishes strong presumptive 


216 


HOSHAIAII. 


evidence in support of this chronology. (2) Place. There seems to be a 
general consent among commentators that the prophecies of Hosea were 
delivered in the kingdom of Israel, and that he was a subject of that king- 
dom. “This is favored not only by the fact that his prophetic addresses 
are occupied throughout with the kingdom of the teu tribes, but also by the 
peculiar style and language of his prophecies, which have here and there 
an Aramean coloring, and still more by the intimate acquaintance with 
the circumstances and localities of the northern kingdom, (chap, v, 1 ; vi, 8, 
9; xii, 12; xiv, 6,) which even goes so far that he calls the Israelitish 
kingdom “ the land,” (chap, i, 2,) and the king of Israel “ our king.” Chap, 
vii, 5. (3) The Prophet’s Family Delations. It is recorded in chap, i, 2-9, 

that Hosea, at the command of God, took an impure woman (Gotner, the 
daughter of Diblaim) to wife, and had by her two sons (Jezreel and Lo- 
am mi) and one daughter, (Lo-ruhamah,) and in chap, iii, 1, 2, that by the 
divine command he purchased an adulteress. These statements have given 
rise to much discussion, as to their literal or allegorical interpretation. Dr. 
Strong (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v.) expresses the opinion 
that “ There were two marriages by the prophet : first, in chaps, i, ii, of a 
woman (probably of lewd inclinations already) who became the mother of 
three children, and was afterward repudiated for her adultery ; and the 
second, in chap, iii, of a w r oman at least attached formerly to another, but 
evidently reformed to a virtuous wife. Both these women represented the 
Israelitish nation, especially the northern kingdom, which, although unfaith- 
ful to Jehovah, should first be punished and then reclaimed by him.” 
(4) Division of the Book. “It is easy to recognize two great divisions, 
whii h, accordingly, have been generally adopted : (1) Chaps, i to iii : (2) iv 
to end. The subdivision of these several parts is a work of greater diffi- 
culty ; that of Eichhorn will be found to be based upon a highly subtle, 
though by no means precarious, criticism. (1) According to him the first 
division should be divided into three separate poems, each originating in a 
distinct aim, and each after its own fashion attempting to express the idol- 
atry of Israel by imagery borrowed from the matrimonial relation, Ihe 
first, and therefore the least elaborate of these, is contained in chap, iii ; 
the second in chap, i, 2-11 ; the third in chap, i, 2-9, and ii, 1-23. These 
three are progressively elaborate developments of ihe same reiterated idea. 
Chap, i, 2-9, is common to the second and thiid poems, but not repeated 
with each severally, (iv, 2T3, ff.) (2) Attempts have been made by Wells, 
Eichhorn, etc., to subdivide the second part of the book. These divisions 
are made either according to reigns of contemporary kings or according to 
the subject-matter of the poem. The former course has been adopted by 
Wells, who gets five , the latter by Eichhorn, who gets sixteen, poems out of 
this part of the book. These prophecies were probably collected by Ilosea 
himself toward the end of his career.” — Smith, Dictionary. 

HOSHAFAH, (Heb. Eoshayah ', iTy^n, whom Jehovah delivers.) 

1. A man who assisted in the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem after it 
had been rebuilt by Nehemiah. Neh. xii, 32. B. C. 445. 

2. The father of a certain Jezaniah, or Azariah, who was a man of note 
after the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar, and besought Jere- 
miah to favor the flight of the remnant of the Jews into Egypt. Jer. 
xlii, 1. He is probably the same person mentioned in chap, xliii, 2. B. C. 588. 


HOSHAMA — HULDAH. 


217 


HOSHA'MA, or HOSH'AMA, (Heb. Hoshama', whom Jeho- 

vah hears,) one of the sons of King Jehoiachin, born during his captivity. 
1 Chron. iii, 18. B. C. after 598. 

HOSHE'A, (Heb. same as Hosea,) (q. v.) 

1. The original name of Joshua, the son of Nun. Deut. xxxii, 44; Num. 
xiii, 8, 16. 

2. The son of Elah, and last king of Israel. He conspired against and 
slew his predecessor, Pekah, (2 Kings xv, 30,) in the twentieth year after 
Jotharn became sole king, (he only reigned sixteen years.) B. G. 739-8. 
He did not become established on the throne till after an interregnum of at 
least eight years, namely, in the twelfth year of Ahaz. 2 Kings xvii, 1. 
B. C. 730. It is declared of him that “he did that which was evil in the 
sight of the Lord, but not as the kings of Israel that were before him.” Ver. 
2. Shortly after his accession, he submitted to the supremacy of Shalmane- 
zer, who appears to have entered his territory with the intention of subdu- 
ing it by force if resisted, (2 Kings xvii, 3:) and indeed seems to have 
stormed the strong caves of Beth-arbel, (Hos. x, 14,) but who retired pac- 
ified with a present. Intelligence that Hosliea had entered into negotia- 
tions with So, king of Egypt, prompted Shalmanezer to return and punish 
the rebellious king with imprisonment for withholding the tribute. 2 Kings 
xvii, 4. B. C. 725. He was probably released by the payment of a large 
ransom, but a second revolt soon after provoked the king of Assyria to 
march an army into the land of Israel, B. C. 723 ; and after a three years’ 
siege Samaria was taken and destroyed, and the ten tribes were carried 
away beyond the Euphrates. B. C. 720. 2 Kingsxvii, 5, 6; xviii, 9-12. Of 
the future fortune of Hosliea we know nothing. 

3. Son of Azaziah and prince of the tribe of Ephraim in the time of David. 
1 Chron. xxvii, 20. B. C. about 1015. 

4. One of the chiefs of Israel who joined in the sacred covenant with 
Nehemiah after the captivity. Neh. x, 23. B. C. 445. 

HO'THAM, (Heb. Ghotham', DJiin, a seal ring,) one of the sons of 

Heber, the grandson of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 32. B. C. perhaps about 1444. 
He is probably the same with Hdem , whose sons are enumerated in verse 
35, and grandsons in verses 36, 37. 

HO'THAN, (Heb. same as Hotham,) an Aroerite, father of Shama and 
Jehiel, two of David’s “valiant men,” 1 Chron. xi, 44. B. C. 1047. 

HO'THIR, (Heb. Hoikin', Ynifl, preserver ,) the thirteenth son of He- 

man, (q. v.,) who, with eleven of his kinsmen, had charge of the twenty- 
first division of Levitical singers. 1 Chron. xxv, 4, 28. B. C. 1015. 

HUL, (Heb. Chul', ^n, circle ,) the second son of Aram, and grandson 
of Shem. Gen. x, 23 ; 1 Chron. i, 17. B. C. about 2247. The geographical 
location of the people whom lie represents is not positively known. Quite 
probable seems the identification proposed by Bosenmuller ( Alterthum , i, 2, 
p. 253) with the district now called Huleh, around Lake Merom. (M’Clin- 
tock and Strong’s Cyclopcedia.) 

HUL'DAH, (Heb. Gkuldah', m^n, weasel ,) a prophetess, the wife of 
Shallum, (q. v.,) who was keeper of the wardrobe. She dwelt, in the 


218 


HUPHAM— HURAM. 


reign of Josiah, in that part of Jerusalem, called the Mishneh, (second or 
double , perhaps “suburb” or “ lower city”) To her the king sent Hilkiah 
the priest, Shaphan the scribe, and others, to consult respecting the denun- 
ciations in the lately found book of the law. She then delivered an oracular 
response of mingled judgment and mercy, declaring the not remote destruc- 
tion of Jerusalem, but promising Josiah that he should be taken from the 
world before these evil days came. 2 Kings xxii, 14-20; 2 Chron. xxxiv, 
22-28. B. C. 624. Huldah is only known from this circumstance. 

HU'PHAM, (Heb. Chupham', DDin perhaps coast-man , Gesenius ; pro- 

tected , Fiirst,) apparently one of the sons of Benjamin, and founder of the 
family of the Huphamites. Num. xxvi, 39. He is supposed to be the same 
with Huppim. B. C. 1706. From 1 Chron. vii, 12, 15, it would appear that 
Huppim was a grandson of Benjamin. 

HUPTAH, (Heb. Chuppah f, HQn, covering, protection ,) a priest in Da- 
vid’s time, having charge of the thirteenth of the twenty-four classes into 
which the king divided the priests. 1 Chron. xxiv, 13. B. C. 1015. 

HUP'PIM. Gen. xlvi, 21 ; 1 Chron. vii, 12. See Hupham. 

HUR, (Heb. Chur, Tin, a hole , prison ,) the name of five men. 

1. A man who is mentioned in connection with Moses and Aaron on the 
occasion of the battle with Amalek at Rephidim, (Exod. xvii, 10,) when 
with Aaron he stayed up the hands of Moses. Yer. 12. He is mentioned 
again in chap, xxiv, 14, as being, with Aaron, left in charge of the people 
by Moses during his ascent of Sinai. B. C. 1491. He was, according to 
Josephus, (Ant., iii, 2, 4,) the husband of Miriam, the sister of Moses. 

2. The grandfather of Bezaleel, the chief artificer of the tabernacle — “ son 
of Huri, son of Hur — of the tribe of Judah.” Exod. xxxi, 2; xxxv, 30, 
xxxviii, 22. In the lists of the descendants of Judah in First Chronicles, 
the pedigree is more fully preserved. Hur there appears as one of the great 
family of Pharez. He was the son of Caleb ben-Hezron by a second wife, 
Ephrath, (chap, ii, 19, 20; comp. ver. 5, also chap, iv, 1,) the first- fruit of 
the marriage, (chap, ii, 50 ; iv, 4,) and the father, besides Uri, (chap, ii, 20,) 
of three sons, who founded the towns of Kirjath-jearim, Bethlehem, and 
Beth-gader. Yer. 51. B. C. before 1491. (Smith, Dictionary.) 

3. The fourth-named of the five kings of Midian who were slain (with 
Baalam) by the Israelites, under the leadership of Phineas. Num. xxxi, 8. 
B. C. 1452. In a later mention of theip (Josh, xiii, 21) these five Midianites 
are termed “ Dukes of Sihon,” properly, “ vassals.” (Keil, Commentary .) 

4. A person whose son (Ben- Hur) was the first-named of Solomon’s 
twelve purveyors. His district was in Mount Ephraim. 1 KiDgs iv, 8. 
B. C. before 1014. 

5. Father of Rephaiah, which latter is called “ ruler of the half part of 
Jerusalem ” after the captivity, and who assisted in repairing its walls. 
Neh. iii, 9. B. C. before 445. 

HU'RAI, (Heb. Chur ay*, vrjpj, linen worker, noble) a native of the val- 
leys (“ brooks ”) of Mount Gaash, and one of David’s valiant men, (1 Chron. 
xi, 32 ;) called less correctly (2 Sam. xxiii, 30) Hiddai. B. C. 1047. 

HU'RAM, (Heb. Chur am', DYin, high-born, another form of Hiram, 

(q. v.) 


HURI — HYMENJEUS. 219 

1. A Benjamite, sun of Bela, the first-born of the patriarch. 1 Chron. 
viii, 5. 

2. The form in which the name of the king of Tyre in alliance with Da- 
vid and Solomon — and elsewhere given as Hiram — appears in Chronicles. 
2 Chron. ii, 3, 11, 12; viii, 2, 18; ix, 10, 21. 

3. The same change occurs in Chronicles in the name of Hiram the arti- 
ficer, which is given as Huram in the following places: 2 Chron. ii, 13; iv. 
11, 16. 

HU'RI, (Heb. Churi', '"ftn, linen worker ,) the son of Jaroah and father 

of Abihail, of the descendants of Glad in Baslian. 1 Chron. v, 14. B. C. 
before 771. 

HU'SHAH, (Heb. Chushah', nK*in> haste ,) son of Ezer, and descendant 

of Hur, of the family of Judah, (1 Chron. iv, 4;) whence probably the 
patronymic Hushathite. 2 Sam. xxi, 18; 1 Chron. xi, 29; xx, 4. He seems 
to be the same person called Shuah in 1 Chron. iv, 11. Comp. Hush am. 

HU'SHAI, (Heb. Cushay hasting , quick,) an Archite and a prom- 
inent actor in the history of Absalom’s rebellion. When David fled from 
Jerusalem, Hushai joined him, but, at his suggestion, returned to the city 
for the purpose of serving his master as occasion might offer. 2 Sam. xv, 
32, sq. He offered his allegiance to Absalom, (chap, xvi, 16, sq .,) and was 
invited by him to a conference, which should decide the prince’s action. 
Hushai advised delay in the pursuit of the king until ampler preparation 
had been made, thus defeating the counsel of Ahithophel. Chap, xvii, 5-22. 
The immediate result was the suicide of the defeated Ahithophel, (ver. 23,) 
and the ultimate consequence was the crushing out of the rebellion. B. C. 
1023. He is called the “ friend” of David, (2 Sam. xv, 37,) and “the king’s 
companion,” that is, vizier , or intimate adviser. 1 Chron. xxvii, 33. Baanah, 
Solomon’s vicegerent in Asher, (1 Kings iv, 16,) was doubtless his son. 

HU'SHAM, (Heb. Chusham', DEJ*iri) haste.) a Temanite, successor of 

Jobab and predecessor of Bedad, among the native princes of Mount Seir 
before the usurpation of the Edomites. Gen. xxxvi, 34, 35 ; 1 Chron. i, 45. 
B. C. before 1496. 

HU'SHIM, (Heb. Chushim ', Q^n, haste.) 

1. The son of Dan, (Gen. xlvi, 23;) given Shuham in Num. xxvi, 42. 

2. A name given as that of “ the sons of Aher,” or Aliarah, the third son 
of Benjamin, (1 Chron. vii, 12; comp. chap, viii, 1,) and therefore only a 
plural form for Shuham , as a representative of his brethren. B. C. perhaps 
about 1706. (See M’Clintock and Strong, s. v.) 

3. One of the wives of Shaharaim, a Benjamite. in the country of Moab, 
by whom he had Abitub and Elpaal. 1 Chron. viii, 8, 11. B. C. perhaps 
about 1444. 

HUZ, eldest son of Nahor and Milcah. Gen. xxii, 21. See Uz. 

HYMENiE'US, (Gr. 'Y| uevuiog, wedding-song ,) a person in Ephesus 
twice named in the Epistles of Timothy, who, with Alexander (1 Tim. i, 20) 
and Philetus, (2 Tim. ii, 17,) had departed from the truth in faith and prac- 
tice. (1) Error. The chief doctrinal error of these persous consisted in 


220 


IBHAR — ICHABOD. 


maintaining that “the resurrection was past already.” 2 Tim. ii, 18. “The 
precise meaning of this expression is by no means clearly ascertained; the 
most general and perhaps best founded opinion is, that they understood the 
resurrection in a figurative sense of the great change produced by the Gos- 
pel dispensation.” Thus he stands as one of the earliest of the Gnostics. 
(2) Sentence. “Whom I have delivered unto Satan.” 1 Tim. i, 20. The 
exact meaning of this formula has been much discussed. Some think it 
means simply excommunication ; others, supernatural infliction of corporeal 
punishment; others, both combined. Ellicott ( Commentary, in loco) says : 
“We conclude, then, with Waterland, that ‘delivery over to Satan ’ was 
a form of Christian excommunication, declaring the person reduced to the 
state of a heathen, accompanied with the authoritative infliction of bodily 
disease or death.” Satan was held to be the instrument or executioner of 
all these visitations. 


IB'HAR, (Heb. Yibchar', chosen ,) one of the sons of David, born to 

him in Jerusalem. 2 Sam. v, 15 ; 1 Chron. iii, 6 ; xiv, 5. B. C. after 1044. 

IBNEI'AH, (Heb. Yibneyah', ppjy, Jehovah will build,) a son of Jero- 

ham, who, with other Benjamites, returned to Jerusalem after the captivity. 
1 Chron. ix, 8. B. C. 536. 

IBNI'JAH, (Heb. Yibneyah f, JTOT, Jehovah will build,) the father of 

Reuel, which latter was the grandfather of the Meshullam (another Benja- 
mite) who settled in Jerusalem after the return from Babylon. 1 Chron. 
ix, 8. B. C. 636. 

IB'RI, (Heb. Ibri', v-q y, an Eberite, or “ Hebrew,”) the last of “ the 

sons of Merari by Jaaziah,” apparently a descendant of Levi in the time of 
David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 27. B. C. 1015. 

IB'ZAN, (Heb. Ibtsan' , of tin, or to shine,) the tenth “judge of 

Israel.” Judg. xii, 8-10. He was of Bethlehem, probably the Bethlehem 
of Zebulun, (so Michaelis and Hezel,) and not of Judah, (as Josephus says.) 
He governed seven years. B. C. 1137-1130. The prosperity of Ibzan is 
marked by the great number of his children, (thirty sons and thirty daugh- 
ters,) and his wealth by their marriages, for they were all married. Some 
have held, with little probability, that Ibzan was the same with Boaz. (Kitto.) 

ICH'ABOD, (Heb. I-kabod', Th^nN, where is the glory f that is, inglo- 
rious,) the son of Phinehas and grandson of Eli. The wife of Phinehas was 
about to become a mother when she heard that her husband was slain in 
battle, that Eli was dead, and that the ark of God had been taken by the 
Philistines. Under such circumstances her labor was fatal. When lying 
at the point of death the women standing about sought to cheer her. say- 
ing, Fear not ; for thou hast borne a son.” She only replied by naming 
the child Ichabod, adding, “ The glory is departed from Israel : for the ark 
of God is taken.” 1 Sam. iv, 19-22. B. C. about 1141. The only other 
mention of Ichabod is in 1 Sam. xiv, 3. where it is stated that his brother 
Alntub, was father of Ahiah, (q. v.,) who acted as high-priest for Saul ’ 


IDBASH — IGDALIAH. 


221 


ID'BASH, (Heb. Yidbash ', probably honeyed,) a descendant of 

Judah who, with his two brothers and a sister, are said (1 Chron. iv, 3, 
according to the Authorized Version) to be “ of the father of Etam,” prob- 
ably meaning of the lineage of the founder of that place, or perhaps they 
were themselves its settlers. B. C. perhaps about 13. (M’Clintock and 
Strong, s. v.) 

ID'DO. 1. Iddo', (siiy, timely ,) the father of Ahinadab, Solomon’s pur- 
veyor in the district of Mahanaim. 1 Kings iv, 14. B. C. before 1014. 

2. Iddo', (ny, timely ,) a Gershomite Levite, son of Joah, and father of 
Zerah, (1 Chron. vi, 21 ;) perhaps more correctly called Adaiah in ver. 41. 

3. Yiddo ', (iT, lovely ,) son of Zechariah, and ruler of the half-tribe of 
Manasseh east. 1 Chron. xxvii, 21. B. C. 1014. 

4. Iddo', (ny, same as No. 2,) a seer whose “ visions ” against Jeroboam 

incidentally contained some of the acts of Solomon. 2 Chron. ix, 29. He 
appears to have written a chronicle or story relating to the life and reign 
of Abijah, (2 Chron. xiii, 22,) which he seems to have called Midrash , or 
“ exposition,” and also a book “ concerning genealogies,” in which the acts 
of Rehoboam were recorded. Chap, xii, 15. These books are lost, but they 
may have formed part of the foundation of the existing books of Chronicles. 
B. C. alter 957. 

5. Iddo ', (iiy, same name as last in Zeeh. i, 1, but different in other pas- 
sages,) the father of Berechiah and grandfather of the prophet Zechariah, 
(Zech. i, 1, 7,) although in other places Zechariah is called “ the son of Iddo.” 
Ezra v, 1 ; vi, 14; Neh. xii, 16. Iddo returned from Babylon with Zerub- 
babel. Neh. xii, 4. B. C. 536. 

6. Iddo', (ntf, mishap ,) the chief of the Jews established at Casiphia. It 

was to him that Ezra sent for Levites and Nethinim to join his company. 
Thirty-eight Levites and 220 Nethinim responded to his call. Ezra viii, 
17-20. B. C. 457. It would seem from this that Iddo was a chief person 
of the Nethinim, and also that this is one of the circumstances which indi- 
cate that the Jews, in their several colonies under the exile, were still 
ruled by the heads of their nation and allowed the free exercise of their 
worship. (Kitto.) 

FGAL, (Heb. Yigal ' , avenger.) 

1. The son of Joseph, and agent from Issachar to spy out the land of 
Canaan. Num. xiii, 7. B. C. 1490. 

2. The son of Nathan, of Zobah, and one of David’s mighty warriors. 
2 Sam. xxiii, 36. B. C. 1047. In the parallel list in Chronicles the name is 
given as “ Joel the brother of Nathan.” Chap, xi, 38. 

3. See Igeal. 1 Chron. iii, 22. 

IGDALFAH, (Heb. Yigdalya'hu , }lvS' ; T!l\ whom Jehovah will m,alce great,) 

the father of Hanan, into the chamber of which latter Jeremiah brought 
the Rechabites to propose the test of their temperance. Jer. xxxv, 4. B. C. 
about 607. 


222 


IGEAL — IMNAH. 


IG'EAL, (Heb. same as Igal,) one of the sons of ghemaiah, of the de- 
scendants of Zerubbabel. I Chron. iii, 22. B. C. after 536. (M’Clintock 
and Strong.) 

IK'KESH, (Heb. Ikkesh', perverse,) the father of Ira the Tekoite, 

which latter was one of David’s famous warriors, (2 Sam. xxiii, 26 ; 1 Chron. 
xi, 28,) and captain of the sixth regiment of his troops. 1 Chron. xxvii, 9. 
B. C. 1047. 

I'LAI, (Heb. Ilay', fyy, supreme ,) an Ahohite, and one of David’s heroes, 

(1 Chron. xi, 29,) called Zalmon in the parallel list. 2 Sam. xxiii, 28. B. C. 
1047. 

IM'LA, (Heb. Yimla', whom God Jills,) the father of Micaiah, which 

latter was the prophet who ironically foretold the defeat of the allied kings 
of Judah and Israel against Ramotli-gilead. 2 Chron. xviii, 8, 9. In the 
parallel passage (1 Kings xxii, 8, 9) his name is written Imlah. B. C. be- 
fore 897. 

IM'LAH, (1 Kings xxii, 8, 9.) See Imla. 

IM'MER, (Heb. Immer ', "iftN, talkative ,) the name of several priests. 

1. The father of Meshillemith, (1 Chron. ix, 12,) or Meshillemoth, (Nell, 
xi, 13,) some of whose descendants took a conspicuous part in the sacred 
duties at Jerusalem after the exile. His descendants, to the number of 
1.052, returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 37 ; Neh. vii, 40. 
He is probably the .one some of whose descendants divorced their Gentile 
wives. Ezra x, 20. B. C. long before 536. By some he is identified with 
Nos. 2, 4, and 5. 

2. A priest in the time of David, and head of the sixteenth sacerdotal 
division. 1 Chron. xxiv, 14. B. C. 1015. 

3. One who accompanied Zerubbabel from Babylon, but was unable to 
prove his Israelitish descent. Ezra ii, 59; Neh. vii, 61. B. C. 536. “It 
does not clearly appear, however, that he claimed to belong to the priestly 
order, and it is possible that the name is only given as that of a place in 
the Babylonish dominions from which some of those named in the following 
verses came.” — M’Clintock and Strong, s. v. 

4. The father of Zadok, which latter repaired part of the walls of Jeru- 
salem. Neh. iii, 29. B. C. before 445. 

5. The father of Pashur, which latter “ smote Jeremiah the prophet, and 
put him in the stocks.” Jer. xx, 1, 2. B. C. before 605. 

IM'NA, (Heb. Yimna whom God keeps back,) one of the sons, ap- 
parently, of Helem, the brother of Shamer, a descendant of Asher. 1 Chron. 
vii, 35 ; compare ver. 40. 

IM'NAH, (Heb. Yimnah ', good fortune .) 

1. The first-named of* the sons of Asher, (1 Chron. vii, 30 ;) called Jim- 
nah in Gen. xlvi, 17. B. C. about 1706. 

2. The father of Kore, which latter, a Levite, had charge of the east gate 
of the temple, and appointed by Hezekiah over the free-will offerings. 
2 Chron. xxxi, 14. B. C. 726. 


IMRAH — ISAAC. 


223 


IM'RAH, (Heb. Yimrah ', nip 1 , refractoriness ,) one of the sons of Zo- 

phah, of the tribe of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 36. B. C. about 1444. See 
Hotham. 

IM'RI, (Heb. Imri', 'ip^, eloquent.) 

1. The son of Bani and father of Omri of Judah. 1 Chron. ix, 4. B. C. 
before 536. 

2. The father of Zaccur, which latter repaired part of the wall of Jerusa- 
lem. Neh. iii, 2. B. C. before 445. 

IPHEDEFAH, (Heb. Yiphdeyah ', iTISV set free by Jehovah,) one of the 

“ sons ” of Shashak, and a chief of the tribe of Benjamin, resident at Jeru- 
salem. 1 Chron. viii, 25. B. C. before 588. 

IR, (Heb. same, TJJ, a city,) the father of Shuppim (Shupham) and Hup- 

pim, (Hupham,) of the tribe of Benjamin, (1 Chron. vii, 12 ;) probably iden- 
tical with one of the sons of Benjamin, Gen. xlvi, 21,) and, therefore, not 
(as often supposed) the same with Iri. 1 Chron. vii, 7. (M’Clintock and 
Strong, s. v.) 

FRA, (Heb. Ira', citizen, otherwise watchful,) the name of three 

of David’s favorite officers. 

1. A Jairite, and “ chief ruler about David.” 2 Sam. xx, 26. B. C. 1022. 

2. A Tekoite, son of Ikkesh, and one of David’s thirty warriors. 2 Sam. 
xxiii, 26; 1 Chron. xi, 28. He was afterward placed in charge of the sixth 
division of troops. 1 Chron. xxvii, 9. B. C. 1047-1015. 

3. An Ithrite, one of David’s “ valiant men.” 2 Sam. xxiii, 38 ; 1 Chron. 
xi, 40. B. C. 1047. 

FRAD, (Heb. Irad', perhaps runner ,) one of the antediluvian pa- 
triarchs of the Cainite line, son of Enoch, and father of Mehujael. Gen. 
iv, 18. B. C. about 3875. 

I'RAM, (Heb. Iram', DTJJ, citizen, otherwise watchful,) the last-named 

of the Edomite phylarchs in Mount Seir, apparently contemporary with 
Horite kings. Gen. xxxvi, 43 ; 1 Chron. i, 54. B. C. about 1496. 

FRI, (Heb. Iri', citizen,) the last-named of the 'five sons of Bela, son 
of Benjamin. 1 Chron. vii, 7. B. C. after 1706. 

IRFJAH, (Heb. Yiriyah ', ,TNV, seen by Jehovah,) son of Shelemiah, 

and a captain of the ward at the gate of Benjamin, who arrested the 
prophet Jeremiah on the pretense that he was deserting to the Chaldeans. 
Jer. xxxvii, 13, 14. B. C. 589. 

FRU, (Heb. Iru', VVy, citizen ,) the first-named of the sons of Caleb, the 
. son of Jephunneh. 1 Chron. iv, 15. B. C. about 149. 

FSAAC. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. YitschaJc', pnT, laughter; 
in the poetical books sometimes Yischak ', pnfcjJ 1 ,) the only son of Abraham 
by Sarah. The name Isaac was fitly chosen by God for the child, in com- 


2 ‘24 


ISAAC. 


memoration of the extraordinary, supernatural nature of his birth, and of 
the laughing joy it occasioned. 

2. Personal History. . (1) Early Life. The birth of Isaac occurred 
(B. C. 1 898) when Abraham was a hundred years old and his mother ninety. 
Gen. xxi, 5; compare xvii, 17. He was circumcised when he w r as eight 
days old, and his mother’s skeptical laughter was turned into exultation 
and joy. The next event recorded of Isaac is his weaning, probably (ac- 
cording to eastern custom) when he was two years old. Gen. xxi, 8, sq_. 
Upou this occasion Ishmael “mocked,” (see Difficulties,) and so angered 
Sarah that she insisted upon his being sent away. See Ishmael. (2) Of- 
fering. We are next informed of the event connected with the command 
of God to offer Isaac up as a sacrifice on a mountain in the land of Moriah. 
Gen. xxii. B. C. perhaps 1872. He was probably about sixteen years of 
age; according to Josephus (. Ant ., i, 13, 2) twenty-five. It appears from 
the narrative that Isaac was not aware that he was to be offered uni il the 
act was in process of being accomplished, (see vers. 7 and 8,) and then 
there was no resistance; nor, so far as we are informed, did Isaac raise any 
objection. His conduct proved him to be a fitting type of Him who came 
to do not his own will, but the will of Him that sent him. (3) Marriage. 
In obedience to the command of Abraham, his trusty servant went to 
Mesopotamia to take, under divine direction, a partner Irom among his own 
kin for his son. Rebekah was chosen, and became the wife of Isaac when 
he was forty years of age. Gen. xxiv. B. C. 1857. (4) Death of Abraham. 

Previous to his death Abraham made a final distribution of his property, 
leaving to Isaac his possessions, while the sons of Hagar and Keturah were 
sent away with presents into the east country, (Arabia.) Isaac and Ish- 
mael buried their father in the cave of Machpelah, and Isaac took up his 
residence “ by the well Lahai-roi.” Gen. xxv, 5-11. (5) Children. Alter 

many years, and in answer to prayer, Rebekah gave birth to two sons, Ja- 
cob and Esau. Gen. xxv, 21, sq. B. C. 1838. As the boys grew Isaac gave 
a preference to Esau, perhaps from his robust character, while Jacob, “ a 
plain man, dwelling in tents,” was the favorite of his mother. (6) Denies 
his Wife. A famine in the land compelled Isaac to seek food in some for- 
eign land, but he was admonished by God not to go down to Egypt, but 
to continue in the Promised Land. The Lord renewed the promise to him 
and to his seed, and confirmed the promise made to his father. Isaac did 
not so fully trust the divine protection but that he was led by his fears into 
an error. While dwelling in the neighborhood of Gerar he had the weak- 
ness to call Rebekah his sister, lest the people might kill him if they knew 
her to be his wife. Upon learning the truth Abimelech, the Philistine king, 
rebuked Isaac for his prevarication, but allowed him to remain in the land. 
Gen. xxvi, 1—11. B. G. 1804. (7) Later Life. Isaac remained in the land of 

the Philistines, cultivated a portion of ground, and in the same year reaped 
a hundred-fold. His flocks and herds multiplied greatly. This so excited 
the envy of the Philistines that they drove him from their territory. He 
re-opened the wells which his father had digged, and which the Philistines 
had filled up ; digging also several new ones, which they claimed as theirs. 
Withdrawing from one after another, he dug one which he was allowed to 
keep unmolested ; and, in token of his satisfaction at the peace he enjoyed, 
he called it Rehoboth, (Room.) Gen. xxvi, 12-22. Thence he returned to 
Beersheba, where the Lord appeared to him and repeated the covenant 


ISAAC. 


225 


blessing. Abimelech also sought and obtained from Isaac a covenant of 
peace. Gen. xxvi, 24-33. When Esau was forty years of age, and Isaac a 
hundred, the former married Judith and Bashematli, daughters of Canaan, 
‘‘ which were a grief of miud to Isaac and Rebekah.” Vers. 34, 35. 
(8) Isaac’s Blessing. The last prominent event in the life of Isaac is the 
blessing of his sons. Gen. xxvii, 1, sq. B. C. 1760. Being old and dim 
of sight, and supposing that his death was near at hand, Isaac called Esau 
and requested him to take venison and to make him “savory meat,” that he 
might eat and bless him before he died. Rebekah, hearing his request, 
sought to frustrate this intention, and to secure the blessing for Jacob. 
While Esau was absent, Rebekah prepared the “ savory meat,” and Jacob, 
disguised so as to resemble his hairy brother, deceived his father and ob- 
tained the blessing. Upon the discovery of the deception Isaac, remember- 
ing, no doubt, the prediction that “ the elder should serve the younger,” de- 
clined to revoke the words he had uttered, but bestowed an inferior blessing 
upon Esau. This so angered Esau that he seems to have looked forward to 
Isaac’s death as affording an opportunity for taking vengeance upon his 
brother. The aged patriarch was therefore induced, at his wife’s entreaty, 
to send Jacob into Mesopotamia, that he might take a wife “of the daugh- 
ters of Laban.” Gen. xxvii, 41 ; xxviii, 6. (9) Death., After some time Jacob 
returned and found his father at Mamre, in “the city of Arba, which is 
Hebron, where Abraham and Isaac sojourned.” Here Isaac died at the age 
of 180 years, and was gathered unto his people, and his sons, Esau and 
Jacob, buried him. Glen, xxxv, 27-29. B. C. 1716. 

3. Character. Isaac was the worthy offspring of the chosen patriarch. 
He appears less a man of action than of suffering, from which he is gener- 
ally delivered without any direct effort of his own. Thus he suffers as the 
object of Ishmael’s mocking, of the intended sacrifice on Moriah, of the 
rapacity of the Philistines, and of Jacob’s stratagem. He seems ever to be 
upheld by the tokens of God’s favor, retaining his calmness and dignity as 
a conscious heir of the promises, and kept from commission of acts which 
would forfeit respect. He was modest, meditative, and retiring, full of 
sentiment and affection. While his life was not filled with stirring acts, 
yet, by its consistency and harmony, it won respect and envy from his con- 
temporaries. Posterity always joined his name in equal honor with those of 
Abraham and Jacob. 

Difficulties.— (1) Isaac Mocked. Gen. xxi, 9. Various meanings are ascribed 
to the word (pn^p) translated “ mocked.” In Gal. iv, 29, the apostle Paul refers 

to persecutions sustained by Isaac from Ishmael. Ellicott thinks that Paul accepted 
the tradition that Isaac suffered personal violence from Ishmael ; Keil and De- 
litzseh, ( Commentary ,) that Paul refers to Ishmael’s mocking, making ridicule. 
(2) Offering of Isaac. Gen. xxii. The only proper way is to consider this trans- 
action as it is represented in the sacred page. The command, then, was expressly 
designed to try Abraham’s faith. Religious perfection and his position alike de- 
manded a perfect heart ; hence the trial. If he were willing to surrender even 
his only child, and act himself both as an offerer and priest in the sacrifice of the 
required victim ; if he could so far conquer his natural affections, so subdue the 
father in his heart, then there could be no doubt that his will was entirely sub- 
missive to God’s, and that he was worthy of every trust, confidence, and honor. 
The trial was made, the fact was ascertained, but the victim was not slain. 
(M’Clintock and Strong’s Gyclopcedia.) See art. Abraham. (3) Denial oi 
Rebekah . Gen. xxvi, 1-11. This has been supposed to be a varying account of the 
transaction recorded of Abraham. But the name “ Abimelech ” occuring in both 


226 


ISAIAH— ISCARIOT. 


cases proves nothing, for Abimelech was, probably, the common title of the kings 
of Gerar. (Haley, Discrepancies.) (4) Blessing his Sons. See Jacob, Dif- 
ficulties. 

ISA'IAH, (Heb. Yeshaya'hu, !) salvation of Jehovah ,) the prophet. 

Personal History. Very little information has come to us respecting 
the history of Isaiah. His father’s name was Amoz, (Isa. i, 1,) but of what 
tribe we do not know. Isaiah is thought to have lived in Jerusalem, near 
the temple, (chap, vi,) and married a prophetess, by whom he had a son 
named Maher-shalal-hash-baz, (chap, viii, 3;) auotlier son, Shear-jashub, 
being mentioned in chap, vii, 3. His dress was suitable to his vocation, 
(chap, xx, 2,) namely, a coarse linen or hairy overcoat of a dark color, such 
as was worn by mourners. (1) Time of the Prophet. Isaiah prophesied 
under the reigns of Uzziali, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. 
The first period of his ministry was in the reigns of Uzziah (B. C. 811-759) 
and Jotham, (759-743,) in which he preached repentance without success, 
and consequently had to announce judgment and banishment. The second 
period extended from the commencement of the reign of Ahaz to that of 
the reign of Hezekiah ; the third from the accession of Hezekiah to the 
fifteenth year of his reign. After this he took no further part in public 
affairs, but he lived till the commencement of Manasseh’s reign, when, ac- 
cording to a credible tradition, he suffered martyrdom by being sawn asun- 
der. To this Heb. xi, 37, is supposed to be an allusion. The traditional 
spot of the martyrdom is a very old mulberry tree, which stands near the 
pool of Siloam, on the slopes of Ophel, below the south-east wall of Jerusa- 
lem. (2) Writings. Isaiah was the author of a biography of King Uz- 
ziah, (2 Chron. xxvi, 22,) and of Hezekiah, (chap, xxxii, 32,) as well as of 
the sublime prophecies that bear his name. Both these works have been 
lost, together with the annals of Judah and Israel into which they had been 
inserted. He is by general consent the greatest of all Hebrew writers, and 
so fully does he describe the person and offices of the Messiah, ihat from the 
time of St. Jerome he has been known as the Evangelical Prophet. (3) Po- 
sition. Isaiah appears to have held a high rank in Jerusalem, for Hezekiah, 
when sending a deputation to him, chose his highest officers and the elders 
of the priests. 2 Kings xix, 2. It is exceedingly probable that he was the 
head and chief of the prophetic order, holding in Jerusalem the same rank 
which Elisha had held in the prophetic schools in Israel. His authority 
greatly increased after the fulfillment of his prophecies by the Babylonian 
exile, the victories of Cyrus, and the deliverance of the covenant people. 
Even Cyrus was induced (Josephus, Ant., xl, 1, 1 and 2) to set the Jews at 
liberty by the prophecies oflsaiah concerning himself. (Keil, Commentary , 
Bible Educator ; Smith, Dictionary ; M’Clintock and Strong, Cyclopedia. ) 

IS'CAH, (Heb. Yiskah', H3D\ spy,) the daughter of Hairan and sister of 

Milcah and Lot. Gen. xi, 29 ; comp. ver. 31. Jewish tradition, as in Jo- 
sephus, (Ant., i, 6, 5,) Jerome and the Targum Pseudo-Jonathan identifies 
her with Sarah, (q. v.) (M’Clintock and Strong.) 

ISCAR'IOT, (Gr. 'laKapiuryg, probably from Heb. hl’Hj? maw of 

Kerioth ,) a surname of Judas (q. v.) the traitor, to distinguish him from 
others of the same name. Matt, x, 4, and often. 


ISHBAH — ISH-BOSHETH. 


227 


ISH'BAH, (Heb. Yishbach', praiser,) a descendant of Judah, and 

founder ( u father ”) of Eshtemoa, he was probably a son of Mered by liis 
wife Hodiah. 1 Chron. iv, 17. B. C. before 1300. See Mered. He is per- 
haps the same as Ism (q. v.) in ver. 20, and apparently identical with the 
Naham (q. v.)of ver. 19. (M’Clintock and Strong, s. v.) 

ISH'BAK, (Heb. Yishbahf, leaving ,) a son of Abraham and 

Keturah (Gen. xxv, 2; 1 Chron. i, 32; B. C. after 1853,) and the progeni- 
tor of a tribe of northern Arabia. The settlements of this people are very 
obscure, perhaps in the valley of Sabak, (called also Sibak) in the Dahua, 
a fertile and extensive tract, belonging to the Benee-Temeem, in Nejd, or the 
highland, of Arabia, on the north-east of it (Smith, Dictionary , s . v.) 

ISH'BI-BE'NOB, (Heb. Yishbi' -Benob * , 232 m V seat is at Nob,) 

one of the Rephaim, a gigantie warrior, u whose spear weighed 300 shekels 
of brass,” who attacked David, but was slain by AbishaL 2 Sam. xxi, 18. 
B. C. about 1018. 

ISH-BO'SHETH, (Heb. Ish-bo'shelh, mew of shame, that is, 

bashful ,) the youngest of Saul’s four sons, (2 Sam. ii, 8 ; 1 Chron. viii, 33 ; 
ix, 39: in the two later passages his name is given as Esh-Baal, u the man 
of Baal.”) 

1 . Personal History. (1) Succeeds Saul. Ish-bosheth was the only son 
who survived his father, his three brothers being slain with Saul in the 
battle of Gil boa, B. C. about 1053. Being the oldest of the royal family, 
he was, according to the law of Oriental succession, the heir to the throne. 
He was at tliat time about 40 years of age, and was taken under the care 
of Abner, who brought him to Mahanaim, beyoud Jordan, where he was 
recognized as king by ten of the twelve tribes. 2 Sam. ii, 8, 9. In ver. 10 
Ish-bosheth is said to have reigned two years, which is thought by some 
to be the whole amount of his reign. See Difficulties. Even the semblance 
of authority which he possessed he owed to the will and influence of Ab- 
ner, who kept the real control of affairs in his own hands, carrying on all 
wars and negotiations with David. 2 Sara, ii, 12, sq . ; iii, 6-12. (2) Breaks 

with Abner. At length Ish-bosheth accused Abner (whether justly or not 
is not stated) of cohabiting with Rizpah, his father’s concubine, which, ac- 
cording to Oriental custom, was considered treason. When Ish-bosheth 
.accused him of this he fell into a great rage, and announced his intention 
•of handing over the kingdom to David. Ish-bosheth made no reply, “ be- 
cause he feared him.” Soon after Abner made proposals to David, and the 
latier demanding Michal, his former wife, Ish-bosheth forced Phaltiel to give 
her up. 2 Sam.iii, 6-16. While carrying on negotiations with David, Abner 
fell a victim to the resentmentof Joabfor the deabh of Asahel. 2 Sam. iii, 17, 
sq. (3) Death. When Ish-bosheth heard that Abner was dead, “ his hands 
were feeble,” and he was soon after murdered, while taking his midday 
rest, by Rechab and Baana, probably to revenge a crime of his father, or in 
the hope of obtaining a reward from David. They met with a stern recep- 
tion from that king, who rebuked them for the cold-blooded murder, and 
ordered them to be executed. The head of Ish-boshetli was buried in the 
sepulcher of Abner in Hebron. 2 Sam. iv, 2-12. B. 0. about 1048. 

15 


228 


ISHI— 1S1IMAEL. 


Difficulty. Length of Reign. In 2 Sam. ii, 10, Ish-bosheth Is said to have 
reigned two years ; whereas, David was king at Hebron over the house of Judah 
seven and a half years. Keil ( Commentary , in loc<>) explains the short reign of 
Ish-bosheth on the supposition “that he was not made king until the recovery of 
the land, which the Philistines had taken on this side Jordan, by Abner, which 
may have occupied five years.” Dr. J. Strong (M’Clintock and Strong, Cyclopaedia, 
s. v.) explains by “supposing that the reigns of David over Judah, and of Ish- 
bosheth over Israel, were nearly contemporaneous, namely, about seven years 
each ; and that the two years named are only the first of this period being men- 
tioned as those from which to date the commencement of the ensuing events, 
namely, the wars between the house of Saul and that of David. This appears to 
be the view taken by Josephus. {Ant., vii, 1, 3 ; comp. 2, 1.) 

ISH'I, (Heb. Yishi', salutary.) 

1. The son of Appaim and father of Sheshan, and descendant of Judah. 
1 Chron. ii, 31. B. C. about 1471. 

2. Another descendant of Judah, but through what line does not appear. 
J Chron. iv, 20. .His son was Zoheth. B. C. perhaps after 1300. 

3. A Simeonite, four of whose sons led their brethren in the invasion of 
Mt. Seir, and the dispossession of the Amalekites. 1 Chron. iv, 42. B. C. 
before 715. 

4. One of the chiefs of Manasseh East, who were “ mighty inen of valor, 
famous men.” 1 Chron. v, 24. B C. about 720. 

ISHI'AH, (Heb. Yishshiyah ', n s ^\ whom Jehovah lends,) the fifth son 

of Izrahiah, great-grandson of Issaehar. 1 Chron. vii, 3. B. C. perhaps 
about 1491. 

ISHFJAH, (Heb. same as above,) one of the “ sons ” of Harim, who re- 
nounced his Gentile wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 31. B. C. 456. 

ISH'MA, (Heb. Yishma desolation ,) a descendant of Judah, 
given as one of the sons “of the father (founder) of Etam.” 1 Chron. iv, 3. 

ISH'MAEL, (Heb. Yishmael, whom God hears,) the name of 

several men. 

1 . Personal History. The eldest son of Abraham by Hagar, his 
Egyptian concubine, when the patriarch was eighty-six years old, fourteen 
years before the birth of Isaac. Gen. xvi, 15, 16 ; xxi, 5. B. C. 1910. The 
place of his birth was Mamre. ( 1 ) Circumcision. The next recorded event 
of his life is his circumcision, he then being thirteen years of age, (Gen. xvii, 
25,) at which, time the Lord renewed to Abraham, in more definite terms, 
the promises made to Abraham respecting Ishmael. See ver. 20. B. C. 
1898. Up to this time Abraham appears to have considered Ishmael as the 
heir of promise, and to have entertained great affection for him. Vers. 17, 
18. (2) Expulsion. Ishmael is not mentioned again until the weaning of 

Isaac, when Ishmael was probably between fifteen and sixteen years of age. 
During the festivities of the occasion. Ishmael, angered, doubtless, by his 
blighted hopes, gave way to some insulting expressions of mockery. Sarah 
speedily detected him, and said to Abraham: “Cast out this bondwoman 
and her son : for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, 
even with Isaac.” Grieved at the demand of Sarah, he only yielded when 
influenced by a divine admonition. The beautiful and touching picture of 
Hagar’s departure and journey is thus recorded: “And Abraham rose up 


ISHMAEL. 


229 


early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it 
unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away: 
and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beer-sheba. And the 
water was spent in the bottle, and she cast the child under one of tho 
shrubs. And she went, and sat her down over against him a good way off, 
as it were a bowshot: for she said, Let me not see the death of the child. 
And she sat over against him, and lifted up her voice and wept.” Gen. xxi, 
6-16. The Lord appeared to Hagar, opened her eyes, that she saw a well 
of water, and thus saved the life of the lad. Again the cheering promise is 
renewed to her of her son, “I will make him a great nation.” Ver. 18. 
(3) Marries. Thus miraculously preserved, the lad “ grew and dwelt in tho 
wilderness, (Paran,) and became an archer.” It would seem to have been 
his mother’s wish to return to Egypt, but this being prevented, she took him 
an Egyptian wife. Gen. xxi, 21. We have no account of Ishrnael having 
any other wife, and if this be the case she was the mother of twelve sons 
(Gen. xxv, 13-15) and one daughter. This daughter, being called the “sis- 
ter of Nebajoth,” (Gen. xxviii, 9,) and this limitation of the parentage of 
the brother and sister seems to point to a different mother for Ishmael’s 
other sons. (4) After Life. Of this we know but little. Ishrnael was 
present, with Isaac, at the burial of Abraham. Gen. xxv, 9. B. 0. 1822. 
The sacred historian gives us a list of his twelve sons, tells us that Esau 
married his daughter Mahaloth, (chap, xxviii, 9,) and closes up the brief 
sketch in these words : “And these are the years of the life of Ishrnael, a 
hundred and thirty and seven years: and he gave up the ghost and died, 
and was gathered unto his people. And they dwelt from Havilah unto 
Shur, that is before Egypt, as thou goest toward Assyria: and he died in 
the presence of all his brethren.” Gen. xxv, 17, 18. B. C. 1773. (Smith ; 
M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopcedia.) 

2. Character. Ishrnael appears to have been a wild and wayward child, 
and doubtless the perfect freedom of desert life, and intercourse with those 
who looked upon him as heir-apparent of their great chief, tended to make 
him impatient of restraint, and overbearing in his temper. The harsh 
treatment of Sarah, the disappointment in not becoming the heir of Abra- 
ham, and the necessity of earning a scanty living by his sword and bow, 
would naturally wound his proud spirit and make him what the angel had 
predicted: “A wild man; his hand will be against every man, and every 
man’s hand against him.” Gen. xvi, 12. 

Difficulties. Gen . xxi, 1 4. The age of Ishrnael at the time of his expulsion has 
given occasion to considerable discussion. He was doubtless thirteen years of age 
(Gen. xvii, 25) at the time of his circumcision, and the time of his expulsion was 
about two or three years later. Gen. xxi,' 5-8. The translation of Gen. xxi, 14, 
which seems to speak of Ishrnael as an infant, is infelicitous. It is unnecessary to 
assume that the child was put on Hagar’s shoulder, the construction of the He- 
brew not requiring it ; and the sense of the passage rendering it highly improba- 
ble. Hagar carried “ it,” the bottle , on her shoulder. The fact of the lad being 
overcome by thirst and fatigue before his hardy Egyptian mother is not remark- 
able, especially when we remember God’s miraculous interposition in her behalf. 
Gen. xvi, 12. ' Keil ( Commentary ) considers the expression, “ He shall dwell in 
the presence of all his brethren,” to mean that “ Ishrnael would maintain an in- 
dependent standing before all the descendants of Abraham,” and adds : “ The 
Ishm lelites have continued to this day in free and undiminished possession of the 
extensive peninsula between the Euphrates, the Straits of Suez, and the Red Sea, 
from which they have overspread both Northern Africa and Southern Asia.” 
Smith ( Cyclopaedia ) says that the passage “ seems only to signify that he dwelt 


ISIIMAI All. 


230 


near them ; ” which view, Dr. Strong (M’Clintock and Strong, Cyclopaedia) says, 
“ is confirmed by the circumstance that the Israelites did, in fact, occupy the coun- 
try bordering that in which the various tribes descended from Abraham or Terah 
had settled— the Israelites. 

2. One of the sons of Azel, a descendant of Saul through Meribbaal, or 
Mephiboslieth. 1 Chron. viii, 38 ; ix, 44. B. C. before 588. 

3. A man of Judah, whose son, (or descendant,) Zebadiah, was “ruler of 
the bouse of Judah,” under Jehosliaphat. 2 Chron. xix, 11. B. C. about 
900. The office of “ ruler,” etc., was that of lay president of the supreme 
court in Jerusalem. (Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary.) 

4. Son of Jehohanan, of Judah, and captain of a “hundred,” who assisted 
Jehoiada in restoring Joash to the throne. 2 Chron. xxiii, 1. B. C. 878. 

.5. One of the “sons ” of Pashur, who relinquished his Gentile wife after 
the exile. Ezra x, 22. B. C. 456. 

6. Chief of the murderers of Gedaliah, superintendent under the king of 
Bab} r lon of the province of Judea. 

1. Family. His full description is, “Ishmael, the son of Netlianiah, the 
son of Elishama, of the seed royal” of Judah. Jer. xli, 1 ; 2 Kings xxv, 
25. “Whether he was actually a son of Zedekiah or a king, or, more gen- 
erally, that he had royal blood in his veins — we cannot tell.” 

2. Personal History. During the siege of Jerusalem he, like many 
others of his countrymen, (Jer. xl, 11,) had fled across the Jordan, where he 
found a refuge at the court of Baalis, then king of Bene- Ammon. Josephus, 
Ant., x, 9, 2. Gedaliah had taken up his residence at Mizpah, a few miles 

north of Jerusalem, where the prophet Jeremiah re- 
sided with him. Chap, xl, 6. Ishmael had been 
instigated by Baalis to slay Gedaliah, (chap, xl, 14,) 
and his intention was made known to the governor 
by Johanan, one of the Jewish princes, who offered 
to put Ishmael to death. To this Gedaliah would 
not consent, and a short time after, Ishmael and ten 
companions, “ princes of the king,” came to him and 
were by him entertained at a feast. Chap, xl, 15, 16. 
He returned the kindness shown him by murdering 
Gedaliah and all his attendants, including some Chaldean soldiers who were 
there. So secretly was the deed executed that for two days it remained un- 
discovered. On the second day he saw a party of eighty devotees, bringing 
incense and offerings to the temple, who, at his invitation, turned aside to 
the residence of Gedaliah. As they passed into the city, he closed the 
gates, and slew all but ten, who escaped by the offer of heavy ransoms. 
He then carried off the daughters of King Zedekiah, and the people of the 
town, and started for the country of the Ammonites. The massacre was 
soon made known, and Ishmael was quickly followed by Johanan and his 
companions, who “ found him by the great waters that are in Gibeon.” Jer. 
xli, 1-16. B. C. 588. Ishmael, with eight of his men, escaped, and went 
to the Ammonites. Nothing more is recorded of this marvel of craft and 
.villainy. (Smith, Dictionary, s. v.) 

ISHMAI'AH, (Heb. Yishmaya'hu, Jehovah hears,) son of Oba- 

diah, and ruler of the tribe of Zebulun in the time of David. 1 Chron. xxvii, 
19. B. C. 1015. 



ISHMERAI— ISRAEL. 


231 


ISH'MERAI, (Heb. Yishmeray' , whom Jehovah keeps) one of the 

family of Elpaal, a chief Benjamite resident at Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 18. 
B. C. before 588. 

ISH'OD, (Heb. Ishhod', man of renown ,) a son of Hammole- 

keth, and, from his near connection with Gilead, probably an important per- 
son. 1 Chron. vii, 18. 

ISH'PAN, (Heb. Yishpan', jQEjb, laid, strong ,) one of the “ sons ” of 

Shashak, a chief Benjamite residing at Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 22. B. C. 
before 588. 

ISH'UAH, (Heb. Yishvah', ?TIE?\ uniform , or peaceful) the second- 

named of the sons of Asher. Gen. xlvi, 17 ; 1 Chron. vii, 30, (in which lat- 
ter passage it is Anglicized “Isuah.”) B. C. 1706. He appears to have left 
no issue. Compare N um. xxvi, 44. 

ISH'UAI. 1 Chron. vii, 30. See Ishui, 1. 

ISH'UI, (Heb. Yishvi ', uniform, or peaceful,’) the name of two men. 

1. The name is given as Isui, (Gen. xlvi, 17 ;) Jesui, (Hum. xxvi, 44:) 
and Ishuai, (1 Chron. vii, 30.) The third son of Asher, and founder of the 
family of “ Jesuites.” Num. xxvi, 44. B. C. 1706. 

2. The second-named of Saul’s sons by Ahinoam. 1 Sam. xiv, 49; comp. 
50. In the list of Saul’s genealogy, in 1 Chron. viii and ix. his name is 
omitted. Some, therefore, conclude that he died young. In 1 Sara, xxxi, 2, 
his place is occupied by Abinadab, with whom others identify him. 

ISMACHI'AH, (Heb. Yismakya'hu, !|rP3£D', supported by Jehovah ,) 

one of the Levites charged by Hezekiah with the superintendence of the 
sacred offerings under the general direction of the high-priest and others. 
2 Chron. xxxi, 13. B. C. 726. 

ISMAFAH, (Heb. Yishmayah', Jehovah hears) a Gibeonite, one 

of the chiefs of the warriors who joined themselves to David when he was 
at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 4. B. C. about 1058. He is described as “ a hero 
(Gibbor) among the thirty and over the thirty,” that is, David’s body guard ; 
but his name does not appear in the lists of the guard in 2 Sam. xxiii and 
1 Chron. xi. Possibly he was killed in some encounter before David reached 
the throne. (Smith.) 

IS'PAH, (Heb. Yishpah', !"|Q$\ probably bald) one of the “ sons ” of 

Beriah, a chief Benjamite (originally from the neighborhood of Aijalon) 
resident at Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 16, B. C. before 588. 

ISRAEL, (Heb. YisraeV, the name given (Gen. xxxii, 28) to Ja- 

cob after his wrestling with the angel (Hos. xii, 4) at Peniel. “ The ety- 
mology of the word is clearly from the root ,T}fc>, with the frequent adjunct 

God. The verb itself . . . evidently means to strive, or contend, as in 
battle. . . . The signification thus appears to be that of a ‘ successful 


232 


ISSACHAR — ITHAMAR. 


wrestler with God, 1 a sense with which all the lexicographers substantially 
coincide.” (See M’Clintock and Strong; Smith.) 

IS'SACHAR. 1. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Yissaskar, or, accord- 
ing to the Masoretes, Yissa[s\kar', a hire ,') the ninth son of Jacob, 

and the fifth of Leah. Gen. xxx, 18. B. C. 1747. 

2. Personal History. Of Issachar, the individual, we know nothing. 

3. The Tribe of Issachar. (1) Numbers. At the descent into Egypt 

four sons are ascribed to him, who founded the four chief families of the 
tribe. Gen. xlvi, 13; Num. xxvi, 23, 25; 1 Chron. vii, 1. The number of 
fighting men, when the census was taken at Sinai, was 54,400, ranking fifth, 
(Nura. i, 28, 29 ;) at the second census the number had increased to 64,300, 
ranking third. Num. xxvi, 25. (2) Position. Issachar’s place during the 

journey to Canaan was on the east of the tabernacle, with liis brothers Ju- 
dah and Zebulun. Num. ii, 3-8. At this time the captain of the tribe was 
Nethaneel, the son of Zuar. Num. i, 8. He was succeeded by Igal, the 
son of Joseph, who went as one of the spies, (chap, xiii, 7,) and lie again 
by Paltiel, the son of Azzan, who assisted Joshua in apportioning the land 
of Canaau. Chap, xxxiv, 26. (3) Territory. The allotment of Issachar lay 

above that of Manasseh. The specification of its boundaries and contents 
is contained in Josh, xix, 17-23. (4) Subsequent History. Jacob’s “ Issa- 

char is a strong ass crouching down between two burdens ; and he saw 
that rest was good, . . . and became a servant unto tribute,” (Gen. xlix, 14, 
15,) was fulfilled by Issachar paying tribute to the various marauding 
tribes attracted to its territory by the richness of the crops. 

2. One of the Korhite Levites, seventh son of Obed-edom, and one of the 
door-keepers of the house of the Lord. 1 Chron. xxvi, 5. B. C. 1015. 

ISSHI'AH, (Heb. Yishshiyah ', fl s $\ tent t>y Jehovah ,) the name of two 
men. 

1. The first of the sons of Rehabiah, and great-grandson of Moses. 
1 Chron. xxiv, 21.; compare xxvi, 25, where he is called Jeshiah. 

2. The second son of Uzziel, (grandson of Levi,) and father of Zechariah. 
T Chron. xxiv, 25 ; compare xxiii, 20, where he is called Jesiah. B. C. 
about 1491. 

IS'UAH, (1 Chron. vii, 30.) See Ishuah. 

IS'UI, (Gen. xlvi, 17.) See Ishui, 1. 

ITH'AI, (1 Chron. xi, 31.) See Ittai. 

ITH'AMAR, (Heb. Ithamar', “iftJVtf, palm-coast, Gesenius ; little, Burst,) 

the fourth and youngest son of Aaron. Exod. vi, 23 ; Num. iii, 2 ; 1 Chron. 
vi, 3. B. C. 1491. He was consecrated to the priesthood along with his 
brothers, (Num. iii, 3,) and after the death of Nadab and Abilin, they leav- 
ing no children, (Num. iii, 4,) he and Eleazar were appointed to their places 
in the priestly office. Lev. x, 6, 12; Num. iii, 4; 1 Chron. xxiv, 2. We 
learn nothing more of Ithamar, save that the property of the tabernacle (ihe 
curtains, hangings, pillars, cords, and boards) was placed under his charge, 
(Exod. xxxviii, 21,) and that he superintended its removal by the Gerslion- 
ites and Merarites. Num. iv, 28, 33. Ithamar with his descendants occu- 
pied the position of common priests till the high-priesthood passed into his 
family in the person of Eli, under circumstances of which we are ignorant. 


ITHIEL — IZHAR. 


233 


Abiatliar, whom Solomon deposed, was the last high-priest of that line, and 
the pontificate reverted to the elder line of Eleazar in the person of Zadok. 

1 Kings ii, 27. A priest by the name of Daniel, of Ithamar’s posterity, re- 
turned from Babylon. Ezra viii, 2. (Kitto.) 

ITH'IBL, (Heb. Ithiel ', God with me.) 

1. The son of Jesaiah and father of Maaseiah, a Benjamite, one of whose 
posterity returned with a party from Babylon. Neh. xi, 7. B. 0. long be- 
fore 536. 

2. A person mentioned along with Ucal in Prov. xxx, 1, to whom the 
words of Agur’s prophecy was addressed. 

ITH'MAH, (Heb. Yithmah rOV> orphanage,) a Moabite, and one of 
David’s supplementary body-guard. 1 Chron. xi, 46. B. C. 1046. 

ITH'RA, (Heb. Yithra', fconh excellence ,) an Israelite, (but more correctly 

an Ishmaelite , according to 1 Chron. ii, 17, where he is called Jether ,) and 
father of Aniasa (David’s general) by Abigail, David’s sister. 2 Sam. xvii, 
25 ; 1 Kings ii, 5. B. C. before 1023. 

ITH'RAN, (Heb. Yithran pn\ excellent. ) 

1. One of the sons of Dishon, grandson of Seir the Horite. Gen. xxxvi, 
26 ; compare ver. 30 ; 1 Chron. i, 41. B. C. about 1840. 

2. One of the sons of Zophali, the great-grandson of Asher. 1 Chron. 
vii, 37. B. C. after 1444. Perhaps the same as Jether in ver. 38. 

ITH'REAM, (Heb. Yithredm ', D1TUV, superabundance , or residue, of the 

T : : • 

people ,) David’s sixth son, born of Eglah in Hebron. 2 Sam. iii, 5 ; 1 Chron. 
iii, 3. B. C. about 1053. 

IT'TAf, (Heb. Ittay', 'ns, timely .) 

1. “ Ittai the Gittite,” that is, a native of Gath, a Philistine in the army 
of David, who first appeared on the morning of David’s flight from Absa- 
lom and Jerusalem. The king saw him coming with those who remained 
faithful, and besought him as “a stranger, and also as an exile, and as one 
who had but recently joined his service, to return and not ally himself to a 
doubtful cause. But Ittai declared himself to be the king’s slave, (Author- 
ized Version, “ servant,”) and determined to share his master’s fortunes. 
He was allowed to proceed, and passed over the Kedron with the king and 
his company. 2 Sain, xv, 19, sq. B. C. 1023. When the army was num- 
bered and organized by David at Mahanaiin, Ittai appeared in command of a 
third part of the force, and seems to have enjoyed equal rank with Joaband 
-Abishai. 2 Sam. xviii, 2, 5, 12. We learn nothing more of Ittai, excepting 
traditions and speculations which, seem very improbable. (Smith, Dic- 
tionary .) 

2. The son of Ribai, a Benjamite of Gibeah, one of David’s thirty heroes. 

2 Sam. xxiii, 29. B. C. 1047. In the parallel list of 1 Chron. xi (ver. 31) 
the name is given as Ithai. 

IZ'EHAR, (Num. iii, 19,) the same as Izhar, (q. v.) 

IZ'HAR, (Heb. Yitshar', "inV', oil,) the second son of Kohath, the son 

of Levi and father of Korah. Exod. vi, 18, 21 ; Num. xvi, 1 ; 1 Chron. vi, 2, 


284 


IZRAHIAII — JAASAU. 


18, 38; xxiii, 12, 18. In Nnm. iii, 19, the name is given “Izehar.” His 
descendants are called Izharites. B. C. about 1491. 

IZRAHI'AH, (Heb. Yizrachyah, iTITlP, sprout of Jehovah, sc., into the 
world.) 

1. The son of Uzzi and great-grandson of Issachar. 1 Cliron. vii, 3. 
B. C. about 1600. 

2. A Levite. Neh. xii, 42. Anglicized Jezkaiah, (q. v.) 

IZ'RAHITE, (Heb. Yizrach', rnPj the indigenous ,) a patronymic epithet 

of Shamhuth, one of David’s generals, (1 Chron. xxvii, 8 ;) probably so 
called as being descended from Zerah, Judah’s son. 

IZ'RI, (Heb. Yitsri', *HV', the Jtzerite, otherwise former ,) the leader of the 

fourth division of Levitical singers under David, (1 Chron. xxv, 11 ;) prob- 
ably the same with Zeri, of the sons of Jeduthun, mentioned in ver. 3. 
B. C. 1015. 

JA'AKAN, (Heb. Yaaken ', wr ester,) the ancestor of the Bone- 

jaakan round whose well the children of Israel encamped, once after they 
left Mosera, (Num. xxxiii, 30-32,) and again after they left Kadesh-barnea, 
before they reached Mount Hor or Mosera. Deut. x, 6. B. C. before 1491. 
He was the son of Ezer and grandson of Seir. 1 Chron. i, 42, where the 
name is given as Jakan. In Gen. xxxvi, 27, the name appears in the simple 
form Akan. 

JAAK'OBAH, or JAAKO'BAH, (Heb. Yndko'bah, another form of 
Jacob,) one of the prosperous descendants (□’’N'TO princes) of Simeon that 

emigrated to the valley of Gedor in the time of Hezekiah. 1 Chron. iv, 36. 
B. C. about 710. 

JA'ALA, or JAA/LA, (Heb. Yadla', ibex,) one of the Nethiuim 

(“ servants of Solomon ”) whose descendants (or perhaps a place whose for- 
mer inhabitants) returned from the captivity with Zerubbabel, (Neh. vii, 
58;) called in the parallel passage (Ezra ii, 56) by the equivalent name Ja~ 
alah. B. C. before 536. 

JA'ALAH, or JAA'LAH, (Ezra ii, 56.) See Jaala. 

JA'ALAM, or JAA'LAM, (Heb. Yalam', concealer ,) the second- 

named of Esau’s three sons by Aholibamah in Canaan. Gen. xxxvi, 5, 14; 
1 Chron. i, 35. B. C. about 1760. 

JA'ANAI, or JAA'NAI, (Heb. Yanay / , mourner, otherwise for 
iTiy\ answered by Jehovah ,) one of the chief Gadites resident in Bashan. 
1 Chron. v, 12. B. C. between 1093 and 782. 

JA'ASAU, or JAA/SAU, (Heb. Yaasav', fabricator, otherwise for 
made by Jehovah,) an Israelite of the “sons” of Bani, who renouDced 
his Gentile wife after the return from Babylon. Ezra x, 37. B. C. 456. 


JAAS1EL — JABEZ. 


235 


JAA'SIEL, (Heb. Yaasiel', made by Jehovah,) the son of Abner, 

and ruler of the tribe of Benjamin in the time of David. 1 Chron. xxvii, 21. 
By some he is identified with Jasiel, the Mesobaite, and one of David’s 
body-guard. 1 Chron. xi, 47. B. C. 1047-1015. 

JAAZANFAH, (Heb. Yadzanyah', n'JTJT*, whom Jehovah hears.) 

1. The son of Jeremiah, (not the prophet.) and a chief man of the Recha- 
bites, whom the prophet tested as to their obedience of Jonadab, their 
founder, by the offer of wine. Jer. xxxv, 3, sq. B. C. 606. 

2. A Maachathite, son of Hoshaiah, and one of the “ captains ” who ac- 
companied Johanan to pay his respects to Gedaliah at Mizpah, (Jer. xl, 8,) 
and after his assassination in requesting Jeremiah’s advice. Jer. xlii, 1. 
He appears to have assisted Johanan in recovering the prey from Ishmael, 
(chap, xli, 11 , sq.,) and to have gone to Egypt with the rest. Jer. xliii, i, 5. 
In chap, xl, 8; xlii, 1, the name is changed to Jezaniah. He is doubtless 
the person called Azariah in Jer. xliii, 2. B. C. 588. 

3. The son of Shaphan, leader of the seventy elders of Israel, seen by 
Ezekiel, in his vision, offering idolatrous worship at Jerusalem. Ezek. viii, 
11. B. C. 594. 

4. The son of Azur, one of the “ princes ” among the twenty-five men 
seen (in a vision) by Ezekiel at the east gate of the temple, “devising mis- 
chief and giving wicked counsel.” Ezek. xi, 1, sq. B. C. 594. 

JAAZI'AH, (Heb. Yaaziya'hu , t|n s Ty\ comforted by Jehovah,) apparently 

the third son or descendant of Merari the Levite, and founder of an inde- 
pendent house in that family. 1 Chron. xxiv, 26, 27. B. C. before 1015. 
Neither he nor his descendants are mentioned elsewhere. (See chap, xxiii, 
21-23; Exod. vi, 19.) The word Berio, which follows Jaaziah, should 
probably be translated “his son,” that is, the sou of Merari. (M Clintock and 
Strong.) 

JAA/ZIEL, (Heb. YadzieV, comforted by God,) a Levitical mu- 

sician among those of the subordinate part, (1 Chron. xv, 18 ;) doubtless the 
same with the Aziel who was one of those that performed the soprano. 
Yer. 20. B. C. 1015. (M’Clintock and Strong.) 

JA'BAL, (Heb. Yabal', ^>3\ a stream ,) the son of Lamech and Adah, 

and brother of Jubal, (Gen. iv, 20,) where he is described as “ the father of 
such as dwell in tents, and have cattle.” B. C. about 3875. This obviously 
means that Jabal was the first who adopted that nomadic life still follow ed 
by numerous Arabian and Tartar tribes in Asia. 

JA'BESH, (Heb. Yabesh', £> 3 ^ dry, parched,) tho father of Shnllum, who 

assassinated Zachariah and usurped the throne. 2 Kings xv, 10, 13, 14. 
B. C. before 772. 

JA'BEZ, (Heb. Yabets', causing sorrow ,) a descendant of Judah, 

but of what particular family is not apparent. The only mention made ot 
him is this remarkable account: “And Jabez was more honorable than his 
brethren : and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare 
him with sorrow. And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, 0 that 


236 


JABIN— JACOB, 


thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand 
might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may 
not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.” 1 Chron. 
iv, 9, 10. Keil ( Commentary , in loco) supposes that this is a record of a 
vow made by Jabez, the conditions only being given. The reason of this 
is, probably, that the vow had acquired importance sufficient to make it 
worthy of being handed down only from God having so fulfilled his wish 
that his life became a contradiction of his name, the son of pain having 
been free from pain in life.” 

JA'BIN, (Heb. Yabin', TO intelligent , discerner) probably a royal title at 

Hazor, like Agag among the Amalekites. 

1. A king of Hazor who organized a confederacy of the northern princes 
against the Israelites. These he assembled in large numbers near the wa- 
ters of Merom, where Joshua surprised this vast army and overthrew it. 
He then took Hazor and slew Jabin. Josh, xi, 1-14. B. C. 1450. 

2. Another king of Hazor, and probably a descendant of the former. He 
is called “ king of Canaan ” (Judg. iv, 2) in distinction from the kings of 
other nations, such as Moab, Mesopotamia, etc. (Keil, Commentary.) He 
seems to have had unusual power, as he is credited with 900 chariots of 
iron. The idolatry of the Israelites having lost them the divine protection, 
they became subject to Jabin, who “ mightily oppressed” them for tweuty 
years. B. C. 1316-1296. From this they were delivered by the great vic- 
tory won by Barak over the forces of Jabin. commanded by Sisera. Judg. 
iv, 3-16. The war still continued until it ended in the overthrow of Jabin. 
His name is mentioned in Psa. lxxxiii, 9. 

JA'CHAN, (Heb. Yakan ', afflicted, mourner ,) one of seven chief 

Gadite “brothers” resident in Bashan. 1 Chron. v, 13. B. C. between 
1093-782. 

JA'CHIN, (Heb. Yokin ' , p\ firm) 

1. The fourth son of Simeon, (Gen. xlvi, 10 ; Exod. vi, 15,) called Jarib in 
1 Chron. iv, 24, founder of the Jachinites. Num. xxvi, 12. B. C. 1706. 

2. One of the priests residing in Jerusalem after the captivity. 1 Chron. 
ix, 10; Neh. xi, 10. B. C. 536. 

3. Head of the twenty-first course of priests in the time of David. 
1 Chron. xxiv, 17. B. C. 1015. 

JA'COB, (Heb. Yaakob 3p])\ supplanter.) 

1. The second-born of the two sons of Isaac and Rebekah, his conception 
being supernatural, in answer to Isaac’s prayer. He was born when his 
father was sixty years old, probably at the well Lahai-roi. Gen. xxv, 21-26 ; 
compare ver. 11. B. C. 1837. 

1. Personal History. It is recorded that Jacob grew up to be “ a plain 
man, dwelling in tents,” preferring the quiet of a home-life to the active, 
dangerous career of a hunter. He was the favorite of his mother, while 
Isaac’s partiality was shown toward Esau. (1) Buys Esau’s Birthright. 
The first incident mentioned is his purchase of Esau’s birthright at the 
paltry price of a mess of pottage, thus making use of his brother’s hunger 
to advance his own interests. “ The birthright consisted afterward in a 
double portion of the father’s inheritance, (Deut. xxi, 17 ;) but with the pa- 


JACOB. 


237 


triarclis it embraced the chieftainship, the rule over the brethren and the 
entire family, (chap, xxvii, 29,) and the title to the blessing of promise, 
(chap, xxvii, 4, 27-29,) which included the future possession of Canaan and 
of covenant fellowship with Jehovah. Chap, xxviii, 4.” (Keil and Delitzsch, 
Commentary.) (2) Obtains Isaac’s Blessing. Isaac, now aged, was about 
to pronounce his blessing upon Esau, his elder son, which blessing acted 
with all the force of a modern testamentary bequest. This was thwarted by 
the deception practiced upon him by Rebekah and Jacob, the latter person- 
ating Esau, and helping out his mother’s fraud by direct falsehood. Thus 
Jacob received his father’s blessing. Gen. xxvii, 1-29. B. C. about 1760. 
(3) Jacob’s Flight. Esau hated his brother because of his deception and 
its success, and resolved to slay him, only delaying until a sufficient time 
after the probably near death of his father. Rebekah, informed of Esau’s 
purpose, advised Jacob to flee to her brother Laban, in Haran, obtaining 
Isaac’s consent by the plea that she wished Jacob to marry one of his kins- 
women, and not a daughter of Canaan. Isaac blessed Jacob again, and sent 
him away. Gen. xxvii, 41-xxviii, 5. (4) Dream at Bethel. On his jour- 

ney he stopped at Luz for the night, and was there favored with the vision 
of the ladder and the ascending and descending angels. God there con- 
firmed to him the promises given to his fathers, and promised him protec- 
tion on his journey and a safe return to his home. In recognition of the 
divine presence Jacob called the place Bethel, and made a vow, and dedi- 
cated a tenth of all God gave him to Jehovah. Gen. xxviii, 10-22. 
(5) Serves Laban. Arrived at Haran, Jacob met Rachel, Laban’s daughter, 
by whom Jacob’s coming was made known to her father. After a month 
Laban inquired what wages David desired for his services, and he asked 
for Rachel on the condition of a seven years’ service. At the expiration of 
the time, which seemed to Jacob “ but a few days for the love he had to 
her,” Laban availed himself of the customs of the country to substitute his 
elder daughter, Leah. Upon the discovery of the deception, Laban excused 
himself, saying : “ It must not be so done in our country, to give the younger 
before the first-born.” Another seven years’ service gained for Jacob Ids 
beioved Rachel. Leah became the mother of Jacob’s first-born, Reuben, 
three other sons successively following, namely, Simeon, Levi, and Judah. 
Rachel, bearing no children, gave to Jacob her maid Bilhah, who bore Dan 
and Naphtali. Two other sons, Gad and Asher, were born of Leah’s maid, 
Zilpah. Leah bare two more sons, Issachar and Zebulun, and a daughter, 
Dinah. At length Rachel became the mother of a son, whom she called 
Joseph. Gen. xxix, 1-xxx, 24. A number of years later Benjamin was 


CHILDREN OF JACOB. 


By Leah. 


By Rachel. 


By Bilhah. 


By Zilpah. 


(1) Reuben, b. 115-2 B. C. (12) Joseph, b. 1745 B. C. (5) Dan, b. 1748 B. C. 

(2) Simeon, b 1751 B. C. (13) Benjamin, b. 1732 B. C. (6) Naphtali, b. 1747 B. C. 

(3) Levi, b. 1750 B. C. 

(4) Judah, b. 1749 B. C. 

(9) issachar b 1747 B. C. 

(10) Zebulun, b. 1746 B. C. 

(11) Dinah, b. 1745 B. C. 


(7) Gad, b. 1748 B. C. 

(8) Asher, b. 1747 B. C. 


born. After his fourteen years had expired he was induced by Laban to 
remain six years longer, and, by a hardly honorable artifice, increased 


238 


JACOB. 


greatly in wealth. This displeased Laban, so that a separation was deemed 
advisable. Gen. xxx, 25-xxxi, 16. (6) Flees from Laban. Gathering to- 

gether his family and property, he set out for Canaan. B. C. 1739. On 
the third day Laban learned of Jacob’s departure and followed after him, 
but was warned by God not to hinder his return. After much reproach 
and recrimination peace was restored, and Laban returned to his home. Gen. 
xxxi, 17, sq. Shortly after the departure of Laban Jacob met a company 
of angels, and called the place, in honor of them, Mahanaim, ( two hosts.) 
(7) News from Esau. Jacob sent messengers to Esau with a friendly greet- 
ing, who brought word that his brother was on the way to meet him with 
400 men. Greatly alarmed and distressed, he divided his people, with the 
flocks and herds, into two companies, so that if one was attacked the other 
might escape. Jacob also prepared a present from his substance for Esau, 
hoping thus to pacify his brother. (8) Wrestling. Then came a night of 
prayer, during which the angel of the Lord wrestled with him. See Dif- 
ficulties. In attestation of his power with God, through faith, his name 
was changed from Jacob to Israel , (“ wrestler with God.”) His request, 
namely, to know the name of the person with whom he wrestled, was de- 
nied him, but Jacob named the place, near Jabbok, of the remarkable trans- 
action, Peniel, “ the face of God .” Gen. xxxii, 24, sq. (9) Reconciled to Esau. 
In the morning Jacob saw Esau, with his army, approaching, and sent for- 
ward, first his handmaids, then Leah and her children, and lastly Rachel 
and Joseph. Esau’s bitter feelings gave way at the sight of his brother, 
his liberal gifts, and earnest entreaties. They embraced as brethren, and, 
for aught we know, maintained friendly relations for the rest of their lives. 
Jacob remained for a while on the other side of Jordan, at Succoth. He 
then came to Shechem, and pitched before the city of Shalem, and purchas- 
ing a plot of ground, “ erected there an altar, and called it El Elohe-Israel,” 
that is, Mighty one , G»d of Israel. Gen. xxxiii, 1, sq. Here is located the 
well called after Jacob. John iv, 6. (10) Goes to Bethel. Having been 

brought into collision with the people of Shechem, because of the violation 
of Dinah and the revenge taken by her brothers, Jacob was commanded to 
go and dwell in Bethel. He took the strange gods found in his family and 
buried them “ under the oak which is by Shechem.” There God appeared 
to Jacob again and blessed him, renewing the Abrahamic covenant. 
(11) Bereavement. While journeying from Bethel to Ephrath his beloved 
wife, Rachel, died in giving birth to her second son, Benjamin. Gen. 
xxxv, 20. B. C. 1732. Not long after this Jacob was sorely afflicted 
in the loss of his beloved son, Joseph, who was sold by his brethren, (Gen. 
xxxvii,) B. C. about 1729, and in 1716 by the death of Isaac. (12) Egypt. 
The great famine, predicted by Joseph, becoming very sore in Canaan, Ja- 
cob sent his sons down into Egypt to purchase grain. B. C. 1707. He 
retained Benjamin, his youngest son, “lest mischief should befall him.” 
His sons returned with a good supply of food, and told him that they had 
been taken for spies, and could only disprove the charge by carrying Ben- 
jamin to the lord of the land.” His credulity was greatly tested when 
his sons came home with the tidings that “ Joseph is yet alive.” Convinced, 
however, of the truth of their story, he decided to go and see him before he 
died. On his way he was encouraged by a vision at Beer-sheba. He came 
to Egypt, and was affectionately received by Joseph. Gen. xlii-xlvi. B. 0. 
1706. By him he was presented to Pharaoh, and he and his family located 


JACOB, 


239 


in Goshen. Gen. xlvii, 1-12. (13) Death. After a residence of seventeen 

years in Egypt “the time drew. near that Isra 1 must die,” and. calling Jo- 
seph to him, acquainted him with the divine promise of the land of Canaan, 
and took from him a pledge that he would bury him with his fathers. He 
then adopted Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, as his own, and pro- 
nounced his bmediction upon his sons. “And when Jacob had made an 
end of commanding his sons, he gathered up his feet in ihe bed, and 
yielded up the ghost,” (Gen. xlix, 33,) at the ripe age of 147 years. 



JACOB’S WELL. 


Chap, xlvii, 28. B. C. 1689. His body was embalmed, carried with great 
care and pomp into the land of Canaan, and deposited with his fathers and 
his wife Leah in the cave of Machpelah. Gen. 1, 1-13. His descendants 
were led out from Egypt by Moses, and entered Canaan under the leader- 
ship of Joshua. The twelve tribes of which the nation was composed 
were named after his sons, with the exception that Joseph was represented 
by his sons Ephraim and Manasseh. The list of Jacob’s descendants (Gen. 
xlvi 8-27) was probably made up at the time of his decease, as we find 
mentioned sons of Benjamin, himself a mere youth when he went to Egypt. 


240 


JACOB 


TABLE GIVING THE NUMBER OF MEN OF WAR IN EACH TRIBE, AND RELATIVE 

POSITION IN RESPECT TO POPULATION. 


Population at 

tribe. 1st Census. 

[Taken at Sinai.] 

Reuben 46,500. 

Simeon 59,300. 

Levi. No census 

Judah 74,000. 

Dan 02,700. 

N phtali 53,400. 

Gad 45,050. 

Asher 41,500. 

Issachar 54,400. 

Zebulun 57,400. 

Tosenli i Ephraim.... 40,500. 

josepn } ManasS eh... 32,200. 

Benjamin 35,400. 


Rank in Popula- 
tion. 

Seventh. 

Third. 

taken, not being 
First. 
Second. 
Sixth. 
Eighth. 
Ninth. 

Fifth. 

Fourth. 

Tenth. 

Twelfth. 

Eleventh. 


Population at 
2d Census. 
[Taken at Moab.] 

43,730. 

22 , 200 . 

available for military 

70.500. 

04.400. 

45.400. 

40.500. 

53.400. 

04,3) '0. 

60.500. 

32,5(0. 

52,700. 

45,000. 


Rank in Popula- 
tion. 

Ninth. 

Twelfth. 

service. 

First. 

Second 

Eighth. 

Tenth. 

Fifth. 

Third. 

Fourth. 

Eleventh 

Sixth. 

Seventh. 


The following diagram shows the position of the several tribes, the 
priests and Levites, when encamped about the tabernacle ; also the number 
of each division and of each tribe : 



2. Character. Jacob appears to have inherited the gentle, quiet, and 
retiring character of his father; also a selfishness and a prudence which 
approached to cunning. These showed themselves in his reprehensible de- 
ception of his father, his dealings with Esau, and the means which he em- 
ployed to make his bargain with his uncle (Laban) work to his own enrich- 
ment. We must remember, however, that he was inured to caution and 


JADA — -JADAU. 


211 


restraint in the presence of a more vigorous brother; that he was secretly 
stimulated by a belief that God designed for him some superior blessing; 
that he was compelled to leave home to preserve his life, and obliged to 
cope with an avaricious and crafty uncle. But “ God revived the promise 
over which he had brooded for sixty years, since he learned it in childhood 
from his mother. Angels conversed with him. Gradually he felt m re 
and more the watchful care of an ever-present spiritual Bather. Face to 
face he wrestled with the representative of the Almighty. And so, even 
though the moral consequences of his early transgressions hung about him, 
and saddened him with a deep knowledge of all the evil of treachery, and 
domestic envy, and partial judgment, and filial disobedience, yet the in- 
creasing- revelations of God enlightened the old age of the patriarch ; and 
at last the timid ‘ supplanter,’ the man of subtle devices, waiting for the 
salvation of Jehovah, dies the ‘soldier of God,’ uttering the messages of 
God to his remote posterity.” — Smith, Dictionary , s. v. 

Difficulties.— (1) Isaac’s Blessing. Justification of the deceit practiced upon 
Isaac by Jacob and Rebekah is impossible. Nor can we approve Isaac’s conduct 
in insisting upon giving Esau the chief blessing, if we believe him to have been 
acquainted with the divine prediction. Nowhere in Scripture do we find approval. 
On the contrary, sin was followed by immediate punishment. “Rebekah was 
obliged to send her pet son into a foreign land, away from his father’s house, 
and in an utterly destitute condition. She did not see him for twenty years, even 
if she lived till his return. Jacob bad to atone for his wrong by a long and pain- 
ful exile, in the midst of privation, anxiety, and fraud. Isaac was punished for 
retaining his preference for Esau, in opposition to the will of Jehovah, by the 
success of Jacob’s stratagem; and Esau, for his contempt of the birthright, by 
the loss of the blessing of the first-born. In this way a higher hand prevailed 
above the acts of sinf ul men, bringing the counsel and will of Jehovah to eventual 
triumph in opposition to human thought and will.”— Keil and Delitzsch, Com- 
mentary/. (2) Jacob’s polygamy is an instance of a patriarchal practice quite 
repugnant to Christian morality, but to be accounted for on the ground that the 
time had not then come for a full expression of the will of God on this subject. 
In times when frequent wars increased the number of captives and orphans, and 
reduced nearly all service to slavery, there may have been some reason for ex- 
tending the recognition and protection of the law to concubines, or half-wives, as 
Bilhah and Zilpah. (Smith, Dictionary of the Bible.) (3) Wrestling with the 
Angel. This has been a fruitful source of difficulty and misinterpretation. This 
occurrence is not to be regarded as a dream, nor as a natural or corporeal 
wrestling. Delitzsch (Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary) defines it as a “real con- 
flict of both mind and body, a work of the spirit with an intense effort of the 
body.” A very obvious end pursued throughout the history of Jacob was the de- 
velopment of his religious convictions ; and the event in question, no less than 
the altars he erected and the dreams he had, may have materially conduced to so 
important a result. The immediate lesson taught Jacob by this incident may have 
been that he was not to overcome by the power of flesh alone. To convince him 
of this God dislocated his thigh. By the power of faith and prayer Jacob proved 
himself a true wrestler with God. That the occurrence had a lasting spiritual 
effect upon Jacob is evident from the devout tenor of his after life. 

2. Jacob was the name of the father of Joseph, the husband of the Vir- 
gin Mary. Matt, i, 15, 16. B. C. before 40. 

JA'DA, (Heb. Yada\ jn\ knowing ,) the last-named of the two sons of 

Onam, a descendant of Judah through Jerahmeel ; li's two sous are like- 
wise mentioned. 1 Chron. ii, 28, 32. B. C. perhaps about 1450. 

JA'DAU, (Heb. Yaddai /, YT, for iT, Yiddo', “ IddoJ) one of the “sons” 

of Nebo who divorced their Gentile wives after the exile. Ezra x,43. B. 0. 
456. 


242 


JADDUA — JAEL, 


JAD'DUA, or JADDU'A, (Heb. Yaddu'a , JttT, known.) 

1. One of the chiefs of the people who subscribed the covenant made by 
Nehemiah. Nell. x, 21. B. C. 445. 

2. The son of Jonathan, (Nell, xii, 11,) and the last higli-priest mentioned 
in the Old Testament. Ver. 22. This is all that we learn of him from 
Scripture, but we gather pretty certainly that he was a priest in the reign 
of the last Persian king, Darius, and that he was still priest after the Persian 
dynasty was overthrown, that is, in the reign of Alexander the Great. Jo- 
sephus (Ant., xi, 8, 3-6) makes Jaddua high-priest when Alexander invaded 
Judea; but the balance of his story does not deserve credit. (Smith.) 

JA'DON, (Heb. Yadon ', JVT\ judge.) a Meronothite who assisted in re- 
constructing the walls of Jerusalem after the return from Babylon. Neh. 
iii, 7. B. C. 445. 

JA'ibli, (Heb. Yael', wild goat) the wife of Heber the Kenite, and 

slayer of Sisera. Sisera took refuge, after the defeat of the Canaanites by 
Barak, in the tent of Jael, there being peace between the house of Heber 
and Jabin, king of Hazor. He would not, probably, have so ojienly vio- 
lated all ideas of Oriental propriety, by entering a woman’s apartments, but 
for Jael’s earnest invitation. She covered him with a quilt, (Authorized 
Version, “ mantle,”) and gave him milk to drink. Fearing discovery by his 
pursuers, he exacted a promise fiom her to preserve the secret of his con- 
cealment. and fell into a heavy sleep. Jael took one of the great wooden 
pins (Authorized Version, “nail”) which fastened down the cords ot the 
tent and drove it into the temples of Sisera, until it penetrated the ground, 
or floor. “ So he died.” Barak, coming up in his pursuit of Sisera. was 
met by Jael, who showed him the deed she had performed. Judg. iv, 17-22. 
B. C. about 1296. • 

Difficulties.— Many have sought to justify the conduct of Jael ; others see in 
it a scriptural indorsement of murder. It is not necessary to accept either alter- 
native. The Scripture narrative simply gives the incident as a fact. Jael violated 
her offered hospitality, so universally sacred to the Oriental mind, committing 
the sins of lying, treachery, and assassination. These are nowhere justified by 
God’s word. Nor can we accept the assumption of Calovius, Buddeus, and others, 
that Jael offered Sisera her hospitality in perfect sincerity, and that after he was 
asleep was instigated by the Spirit of God to do the deed. (See Keil and Delitzsch, 
Commentary.) She probably acted from prudential motives, and seeing that the 
Hebrews were victorious, and her people were at peace with Jabin, and fearing 
vengeance from them for sheltering Sisera, she conceived the purpose of slaying 
the sleeping and helpless man. (2) Much more difficult is it to explain the eulo- 
gistic notice which Jael receives in the triumphal ode of Deborah and Barak, 
“ Blessed above women shall Jael the wife of Heber the Kenite be; blessed shall 
she beabove women in the tent,” etc. Judg. v, 24-27. We “ question whether any 
moral commendation is directly intended. What Deborah stated was a /act, 
namely, that the wives of the nomad Arabs would undoubtedly regard Jael as a 
public benefactress, and praise her as a popular heroine. She certainly was not 
‘ blessed ’ as a pious and upright person is blessed when performing a deed which 
embodies the noblest principles, and which goes up as a memorial before God, but 
merely as one who acted a part that accomplished an important purpose of 
heaven. ’ '—M ’ Clintock and Strong, s. v. (3) “ In the days ot Jael.” Judg. v, 6. 
The Jael here mentioned has been supposed by some (for example, Gesenius, Dr. 
Robinson, Fiirst, and others) to have been a local judge of the Israelites in the in- 
terval between Shamgar and Jabin. The reasons for this supposition are, 
1. That the state of things described in Judg. v, 6, as existing in Jael’s days, is 
not the state of things existing in the days of Jael the wife of Heber, whose time 
was famous for the restoration of the nation to a better. 2. That the wife of a 


JAHATII— J AUDI EL. 


243 


stranger would hardly have been named as marking an epoch in the history of 
Israel. But there is no evidence of such an interval or of such a judgeship ; and 
it is, therefore, more natural to refer the name to the wife of Heber as the most 
prominent character in the period referred to. The circumstance that the name 
Jael is masculine in the Hebrew is of no force, as it is freely used (literally) of the 
female deer. Prov. y, 19. (M’Ciintock and Strong.) 

JA'HATH, (Heb. Yach'ath, HIT, oneness , union.) 

L Son of Reaiah, (or Haroeh,) of the posterity of Hezron, and father of 
two sons, Ahurnai and Lahad. 1 Cliron. iv, 2. B. C. about 1300. 

2. A son of Shimei, grandson of Gershorn and great-grandson of Levi. 
1 Chron. xxiii, 10. Considerable confusion occurs respecting Shimei (q. v.) 
and his sons. In ver. 9, the three sons of Shimei are, by some error, (prob- 
ably the transposition of the latter clause,) attributed to his brother Laadan, 
while in ver. 11 Jahath is stated to have been “chief” (that is, most nu- 
merous in posterity) of the four sons of Shimei. A similar disagreement 
appears in the parallel passage, (1 Chron. vi.) where Jahath (ver. 43) occurs 
as the son of G-ershom, and again (ver. 20) as a son of Libnah, (that is, 
Laadan,) instead of Shimei. B. C. considerably after 1619. 

3. One of the sons of Shelomoth, an Izharite of the family of Kohath, 
appointed by David to a prominent place in the sacred services. 1 Chron. 
xxiv, 22. B. C. 1015. 

4. A Merarite Levite. and one of the overseers of the temple repairs 
carried on by King Josiah. 2 Chron. xxxiv, 12. B. C. 630. 

JAHAZI'AH, (Heb. Yachzeyahf IT TIT, beheld by Jehovah,) son of Tik- 

vah, apparently a priest, one of those assisting Ezra in ascertaining which of 
the Jews had married Gentile wives after the return from Babylon. Ezra 
x, 15. B. C. 457. 

JAHA'ZIEL, (Heb. Yachaziel ', Si^TjT, strengthened by Jehovah.) 

1. One of the Benjamite warriors who deserted Saul and came to David 
when he was at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 4. B. C. about 1058. 

2. One of the priests, in the reign of David, appointed with Benaiah 
to blow the trumpet before the ark when it was brought to Jerusalem. 
1 Chron. xvi, 6. B. C. about 1042. 

3. The third u son ” of Hebron, the grandson of Levi, through Kohath. 
1 Chron. xxiii, 19; xxiv, 23. B. C. after 1619. 

4. Son of Zechariah, a Levite of the family of Asaph, who was inspired 
by Jehovah to prophesy to Jehoshaphat his victory over the Moabites and 
others who were invading the country. 2 Chron. xx. 14, sq. B. C. 896. 

5. A son of JahazieL, was chief of “ the sons of Shechaniah,” and re- 
turned with Ezra from Babylon with 300 males. Ezra viii, 5. B. C. 457. 

JAH'DAI, (Heb. Yahday ', vqn\ perhaps grasper ,) a descendant, appar- 
ently, of Caleb, of the family of Hezron ; his sons’ names are given, but 
as his own parentage is not stated (1 Chron. ii, 47) it can only be con- 
jectured. 

JAH'DIEL, (Heb. YachdieV , whom, God makes joyful ,) one of 

the heroes of the tribe of Manasseli east of Jordan. 1 Chron. v, 24. B. C. 
about 740. 

16 


244 


JAHDO— JAIRUS. 


JAH'DO, (Heb. Yachdo', nn\ his union,) a Gadite, son of Buz and fa- 
ther of Jeshishai, of the descendants of Abihail, resident in Gilead. 1 Cliron. 
y, 14. B. C. before 771. 

JAH'LEEL, (Heb. Yachleel', hoping in God,) the last-named of 

the three sons of Zebulun. Gen. xlvi, !L4 ; Num. xxvi, 26i His descendants 
are called Jahleelites. Num. xxvi, 26. B. C. 1706. 

JAH'MAI, (Heb. Yachmay', tpn\ whom Jehovah guards ,) one of the 

“ sons ” of Tola, grandson of Issachar. 1 Cliron. vii, 2. 

JAH'ZEEL, (Heb. Yachtseel', allotted by God,) the first-named 

of the sons of Naphtali. Gen. xlvi, 24. His descendants are called Jah- 
zeelites. (Heb. Yachtseeli , Num. xxvi, 48.) In 1 Cliron. vii, 13, the nan e 
is written Jahziel, (q. v.) B. C. 1706. 

JAH'ZERAH, (Heb. Yachze'rah , mTIT, returner,) son of Meshullum and 

father of Adiel, a priest. lChron. ix, 12. B. C. long before 536. He is 
probably the same with Azareel. Neh. xi, 13. 

JAH'ZIEL, (1 Chron. vii, 13.) See Jahzeel. 

JA'IR, (Heb. Yair', “PiO, whom Jehovah enlightens.) 

1. The son of Segub, which latter was descended from Judah on his fa- 
ther’s side, (1 Chron. ii, 22,) and from Manasseh on his mother’s side. 
Moses reckons Jair as belonging to Manasseh, (Num. xxxii, 41 ; Deut. iii, 
14; see also 1 Kings iv, 13,) probably on account of his exploits and pos- 
sessions in Gilead. 1 Cliron. ii, 23. He settled in the part of Argob bor- 
dering on Gilead, where we find the small towns taken (retaken) by him 
named collectively Havoth-jair, or “ Jair’s villages.” Num. xxxii, 41 ; 
Deut. iii, 14; 1 Kings iv, 13 ; 1 Chron. ii, 22. They are said to have num- 
bered twenty-three, (1 Chron. ii, 22,) thirty, (Judg. x, 4,) and sixty. 1 Chron. 
ii, 23 ; Josh, xiii, 30 ; 1 Kings iv, 13. Perhaps the whole sixty were capt- 
ured by him and his relatives, and twenty-three of them were assigned to 
him, others being added afterward. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia; 
Winer. Realworterbuch, s. v.) 

2. The eighth judge of Israel, a Gileadite in Manasseh, (Josephus, Ant., 
v, 7, 6,) and probably a descendant of the preceding. He ruled twenty- 
two years, B. C. 1183-1161, and his opulence is thus recorded: “And he 
had thirty sons that rode on thirty ass colts, and they had thirty ciiies, 
which are called Havoth-jair unto this day, which are in the land of Gilead.” 
The twenty-three villages of the more ancient Jair were probably among the 
thirty which this Jair possessed. He was buried in Camon, probably in the 
same region. Judg. x, 3-5. 

3. The father of Elhanan, who slew Lahmi, the brother of Goliath. 
1 Chron. xx, 5. B. C. before 1018. The Hebrew has Yair', ‘■pJP, awake ; 
and in the parallel passage (2 Sam. xxi, 19) we find “ Jaare.” 

4. A Benjamite, son of Shimei and father of Mordecui, Esther’s uncle. 
Esther ii, 5. B. C. before 518. 

JAFRUS, (Gr. } ldetpog, Jair,) a ruler of a synagogue, (probably at Ca- 
pernaum,) whose only daughter Jesus restored to life. Mark v, 22 ; Luke 


JAKAN— JAMES. 


245 


viii. 41 ; compare Matt, ix, 18. A. D. 31. Some have wrongfully inferred, 
from our Saviour's words, “ The maid is not dead, but sleepeth,” that the 
girl was only in a swoon. (Olshausen, Commentary , i, 321; Neander, Leben 
Jesu, p. 347 ; M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

JA'KAN, (1 Cliron. i, 42.) See Jaakan. 

JA'KEH, (Heb. Yakeh ', np\ pious,) the father of Agur, whose sayings 

are given in Proverbs xxx, 1, sq. Beyond this mention we have no clew 
to the existence of either person. There is great difference of opinion as 
to the person intended. The traditional view is that which gives the word 
a figurative import, (nnp\ obedience ,) and applies it to David. Others un- 
derstand a real name of some unknown Israelite. There are still other 
theories advanced, for a discussion of which see M’Clintock and Strong, s. v. 

JA'KIM, (Heb. YaJcim whom God sets up.) 

1. One of the ‘‘sons” of Shimhi, a Beujamite resident at Jerusalem. 
1 Chron. viii, 19. 

2. Head of the twelfth course of priests as arranged by David. 1 Chron. 
xxiv, 12. B. C. 1015. 

JA'LON, (Heb. Yalon ', lodging ,) the last-named of the four sons of 

Ezra, of the tribe of Judah, and, apparently, of a family kindred with that 
of Caleb. 1 Chron. iv, 17. B. C. perhaps 1300. 

JAMES, more correctly JACO'BUS, (Or. ldnu6og= Jacob.) 

1. The son of Zebedee (Matt, iv, 21 ; Mark i, 19 ; Luke v, 10) and Salome, 
(compare Matt, xxvii, 56 ; Mark xv, 40 ; xvi, 1,) and the elder brother of 
John the Evangelist. 

1. Personal History. James appears first in the sacred narrative as 
following his occupation of fisherman, he and his brother being partners 
with Simon Peter. Luke v, 10. When called by our Lord to be his followers, 
James and his brother responded with an alacrity that renders them models 
of obedience. Matt, iv, 21; Mark i, 19. These brothers and Peter seemed 
for some reason to be especially fi'ted to live in close intimacy with the 
Master, and were associated on several interesting occasions. They alone 
were present at the transfiguration, (Matt, xvii, 1 ; Mark ix, 2 ; Luke ix, 
28,) at the raising of Jairus’s daughter, (Mark v, 37; Luke viii, 51,) and 
at the garden of Gfethsemane during our Lord’s agony, (Mark xiv, 33 ; 
Matt, xxvi, 37 ;) and witli Andrew they listened to the Lord’s private 
discourse on the fall of Jerusalem. Mark xiii, 3. Through mistaken 
views of the Messiah’s kingdom, and an ambition to share in its glory, they 
joined in the request made to Jesus by their mother. Matt, xx, 20-23 ; 
Mark x, 35. James was the first of the apostles to suffer martyrdom, being 
slain with the sword by command of Herod. Acts xii, 2. A. D. 44. Many 
legends are recorded of James, but as they have no good foundation they 
had better be omitted. 

2. Character. From the desire to punish the inhabitants of a certain 
village in Samaria, because they declined to receive Jesus. (Luke ix, 52.) 
we infer that James and John were warm and impetuous in temperament. 
They were called by our Lord (Mark iii, 17) Boanerges — sons of thunder— 
probably on account of their boldness and energy in discharging their 
apostleship. 


246 


JAM IN. 


2. James the Less, another of the twelve apostles. He was the son of 
Alpheus (Matt, x, 3; Mark iii, 18; Luke vi, 15: Acts i, 13) and Mary, 
the sister of our Lord’s mother, (Matt, xxvii, 56; Maik xv, 40; Luke 
xxiv, 10 ; John xix, 25,) and was called James the Less (6 funpoe;. the 
little ) because he was younger than James the son of Zebedee, or on 
account of his low stature. Mark xvi, 1. His mother is supposed by 
some to have been called sister, that is, sister-in-law, of Mary the mother 
of Jesus, because of their marriage to two brothers, Cl* oplias and Joseph. 
It lias also been conjectured that Alphaeus died without issue^ and that his 
wife was espoused by Joseph, on which account James is stvled the (legal) 
son of Alphaeus and the (reputed half) brother of our Lord. James had 
two brothers, Judas (or Jude) the apostle and Joses. Matt, xxvii, 56; 
Luke vi, 16. 

3. James, the brother of the Lord. The natural interpretation of the 
passages (Matt, xiii, 55; Mark vi, 3) indicates that James and his brothers 
and sisters were sons and daughters of Joseph and Mary, the mother of 
Jesus. He was not one of the twelve apostles, (Matt, x, 2-4,) nor at first a 
believer in Jesus. John vii, 5. From Acts i, 13, 14, we conclude that his 
former skepticism had passed away, as it is stated there that it Ins breth- 
ren ” continued with the apostles and others in the “ upper room ” after the 
ascension. Although he was not one of the twelve, yet he was vouchsafed 
a vision of the risen Lord. 1 Cor. xv, 5, 1. Like Paul and Barnabas, he re- 
ceived the title of apostle, (Gal. i, 19,) and was recognized bv the zealots 
for the Law as their leader. Chap, ii, 12. He occupied a prominent, if 
not the chief, place in the Church at Jerusalem, (Gal. ii, 9,) was president 
'of the first council, (Acts xv, 13.) and, with the elders, received Paul 
upon his return from his third missionary tour. Acts xxi, 18. A. D. 58. 
He was the author of the epistle that bears his name. Eusebius tells us 
that James was surnamed “the Just” by the ancients on account of ins 
eminent virtue. In the Apocryphal Gospel according to the Hebrews he is 
said to have been precipitated from a pinnacle of the temple, and then as- 
saulted with stones, and at last dispatched by a blow on the head with a 
fuller’s pole. (Kitto, Cyclopcedia.) 

Difficulties.— By many James the son of Alphazus and James the brother of 
our Len d are considered as identical ; but this view is insisted upon principally 
by those who hold to the perpetual virginity of Mary, for w T hich there is not the 
slightest evidence in Scripture any more than there is for her immaculate con- 
ception. They therefore insist that the words brethren and sinters are not to be 
taken in their literal sense, but in the more general one of relations, and argue 
that they were either (1) step-brothers and sisters or (2) cousins. Without intro- 
ducing the argument for either theory they have been dropped as untenable. 
That James was literally the Lord’s brother is the view held by Stier, Fitch, An- 
drews, Farrar, Neander, Alford, Demarest, Whedon, and others. For discussion 
of this subject, see Whedon, Commentary, Matt, xiii, 35 ; Andrews, Life of our 
Lord; Eadie, Commentary, Gal. i, 19; Alford, Introduction to James; Words- 
worth, Introduction to James; Johnstone, Lectures on the Epistle of James; 
Ormiston, Commentary on Epistle of James in Homiletic Monthly, April, 1883. 

JA'MIN, (Heb. Yarnin ' , pep, right hand.) 

1. The second son of Simeon. Gen. xlvi, 10 ; Exod. vi, 15 ; 1 Chron. iv, 
24. B. C. 1706. He was founder of the family of the Jaminites. Num. 
xxvi, 12. 

2. The second son of Ram, the fourth in descent from Judah. 1 Chron. 
ii, 27. B. C. perhaps about 1491. 


JAM LECH — JARESTAH. 247 

3. One of the priests who expounded the law to the people when read by 
Ezra. Neh. viii, 7. B. C. about 445. 

JAM'LECH, (Heb. Yamlek', whom God makes king,) a chief of 

the tribe of Simeon, apparently one of those whose family invaded the val- 
ley of Gedor in the time of Hezekiah. 1 Chron. iv, 34. B. C. about 715. 

JAN'NA, (Or. ’1 avva, probably from Heb. fi-p, yannah', flourishing,) the 

son of Joseph and father of Melchi, the sixth in ascent from Christ on his 
mother’s side. Luke iii, 24. B. C. about 200. 

JAN'NES, (Gr. ’lavi%.) Jannes and Jambres are supposed to have been 
two of the Egyptian magicians who attempted by their enchantments to coun- 
teract the influence on Pharaoh’s mind of the miracles wrought by Moses. 
2 Tim. iii, 8 • compare Exod. vii, viii. 

JA'PHETH, (Heb. Ye'pheth , J"13\ wide-spreading ,) one of the three sons 

of Noah. Gen. v, 32 ; vi, 10 ; vii, 13 ; ix, 18 ; x, 1 ; 1 Chron. i, 4. Al- 
though he is mentioned last in these passages, yet we learn from Gen. x, 21, 
(compare ix, 24,) that he was the eldest of the three. He and hrs wife 
were preserved in the ark. Gen. vii, 7 : 1 Pet. iii, 20. He had seven sons, 
(Gen. x, 2 ; 1 Chron. i, 5,) and his descendants occupied the “ isles of the 
Gentiles,” (Gen. x, 5,) that is, the coast lands of the Mediterranean Sea in 
Europe and Asia Minor. His act of filial piety when, with Shem, he cov- 
ered his father’s nakedness, is recorded in Gen. ix, 20-27. 

JAPHI'A, (Heb. Yaphi'a, splendid .) 

1. The king of Lachish who, with three other kings, joined Adoui-zedek, 
king of Jerusalem, against Joshua, but was defeated and slain after con- 
finement in the cave of Makkedah. Josh, x, 3, sq. B. C. 1451. 

2. One of the sons of David, born to him by one of his wives, whose 
name is not given, at Jerusalem. 2 Sam. v, 15 ; 1 Chron. iii, 7 ; xiv, 6. 
B. C. after 1043. 

JAPHTjET, (Heb. Yaphleif , deliverer ,) a son of Heber and great- 

grandson of Asher, and father of three sons and a daughter. 1 Chron. vii, 
32, 33. B. C. probably before 1491. It appears to have been a branch of 
his descendants (Japhleti) that are mentioned in Josh, xvi, 3, as having set- 
tled along the border between Ephraim and Dan. 

JA'RAH, (Heb. Yarah', my\ honey ,) 1 Chron. ix, 42. See Jehoadah. 
JA'REB. (Heb. Yareb', 3"l\ adversary ,) occurs as a proper name in 

Hos. v, 13; x, 6, where a “king Jareb” is spoken of as the false refuge 
and final subjugator of the kingdom of Israel. It probably is a figura- 
tive title of the king of Assyria. (Smith, Cyclopedia, s. v.) 

JA'RED, (Heb. Ye' red, -p\ descent ,) an antediluvian patriarch, the fifth 

from Adam. He was the son of Mahaleel and father of Enoch. Gen. v, 
15-20; 1 Chron. i, 2; “ Jered,” Luke iii, 37. B. C. 3544. 

J ARE SI' AH, (Heb. Yaaresliyah', one of the “sons” of Jeho- 

ram, a chief man of Benjamin resident at Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 27. _ 


248 


JAttHA— JASHOBEAM. 


JAR'HA, (Heb, Yarcha', prn',) the Egyptian slave of Sheshan, a de- 
scendant of Jeralimeel. He was married to the daughter of his master, 
and, in consequence, obtained his freedom. Sheshan having no sons, his 
posterity were traced through this connection. 1 Chron. ii, 34—41. B. C. 
probably 1451. Some suppose that the name of Jarha’s wife was Alilai, 
(ver. 31 ; compare 34,) but the masculine form of the word, and the use of 
Aiilai (1 Chron. xi, 41) for a man, is adverse to this conclusion. Others 
suppose Ahlai to be a clerical error for Attai, (ver. 35 ;) others again that 
Ahlai was a name given to Jarha on his incorporation into the family of 
Sheshan, while still others conjecture that Ahlai was a son of Sheshan, 
born after the marriage of his daughter. (Smith, Cyclopaedia.) 

JA'RIB, (Heb. YariV , 2*n\ adversary.) 

1. A son of Simeon, (1 Chron. iv, 24,) given in Gen. xlvi, 10, as Jackin, 
(q. v.) 

2. One of the “chief men” sent by Ezra to procure a priest “for the 
house of God” on the return from Jerusalem. Ezra viii, 16. B. C. about 
457. 

3. A priest of the “ sons” of Jeshua, who divorced his Gentile wife after 
the captivity. Ezra x, 18. B. C. 456. 

JARO'AH, (Heb. Yaro'dch, nil's moon,) a chief man of the tribe of Gad 
resident in Bashan. 1 Chron. v, 14. B. C. before 740. 

JA'SHEN, (Heb. Yashen', jtjb, sleeping,) a person several of whose 

“sons” are named as among David’s famous body-guard, (2 Sam. xxiii, 32,) 
called (1 Chron. xi, 34) Hashem the Gizonite. The discrepancies between 
the two passages may, perhaps, “ best be reconciled by understanding the 
two braves referred to as being Jonathan Ben-Shammah (or Ben-Shageth) 
and Ahiam Ben-Sharar, (or Ben-Sacar,) grandsons of Jashen (or Hashem) 
of Gizon, in the mountains of Judah— hence called Hararites. B. C. before 
1018. 

JA'SHER, (Heb. Yashar', upright.) The book of Jasher is referred 

to in Josh, x, 13, and 2 Sam. i, 18, and appears to have anciently existed 
among the Hebrews. Jasher is not the name of a man as might be sup- 
posed, but a collective noun for upright persons. The phrase “ book of 
Jasher” means “book of the upright, or righteous men.” (Keil, Com- 
mentary.) 

JASHO'BEAM, (Heb. Yashobam', returning people.^ 

1. A Hachmonite, one of David’s warriors, and the first named of the two 
lists given of them. 2 Sam. xxiii, 8; 1 Chron. xi, 11. The former passage at- 
tributes to him the defeat of 800, the latter of 300 Philistines. This is accounted 
for by Kennicott ( Diss ., i, 95, 96) as follows : “ the initial letter of the He- 
brew words for three and eight, being used as an abbreviation, a mistake arose.” 
Dr. Strong (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia , s. v.) inclines to the suppo- 
sition that “ Jashobeam, or Josheb-bash-shebeth, ( - i Sam. xxiii, 8, margin.) 
was the name or title of the chief, Adino and Eznite being descriptive epi- 
thets, and Hachmonite the patronymic of the same person.” B. C. 1015. 
The exploit of breaking through the host of the Philistines to procure a 


JASHUB — JEATERAI. 


249 


draught of water from the well of Bethlehem is ascribed to the three chief 
heroes, and therefore to Jashobeam, the first of the three. 2 Sam. xxiii, 
13-17. B. C. 1045. See JOSH EB-BASH-SHEBETH. 

2. One of the Korhites who joined David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 6. B. C. 
about 1058. 

3. One who commanded 24,000, and did duty in David’s court in the 
month Nisan. 1 Chron. xxvii, 2. He was the son of Zabdiel, and, if the 
same as No. 1, his patronymic of “ the Hachmonite ” must refer to his race 
or office. 

JA'SHUB, (Heb. Yashub ' , 3!|£jb, he who returns.) 

1. The third son of Issacliar, and founder of the family of the Jashub- 
ites. Num. xxvi, 24; 1 Chron. vii, 1. He is called Job, (Gen. xlvi, 13,) 
perhaps by contraction, or corruption, or substitution. B. C. 1706. 

2. One of the sons of Bani, a layman in the time of Ezra who had to put 
away his foreign wife. Ezra x, 29. B. C. 456. 

JA'SIEL, (1 Chron. xi, 47.) See Jaasiel. 

JA'SON, (Gr. ’la<T«v, he that will cure,) of Thessalonica, was the man 
who entertained Paul and Silas in that city. The mob, in consequence, as- 
saulted his house, and not finding his guests, dragged Jason before the 
ruler, who released him on security. Acts xvii, 5-9. A. D. 53. He is 
probably the same as the Jason mentioned in Rom. xvi, 21, as a kinsman 
of Paul, and probably accompanied him to Corinth. A. D. 54. 

JATH'NIEL, (Heb. Yathniel , whom God bestows,) the fourth son 

of Meshelemiah, a Korhite Levite, one of the door-keepers of the temple. 
1 Chron. xxvi, 2. B. C. 1015. 

JA'VAN, (Heb. Yavan ', p\) the fourth-named of the sons of Japheth, 

and father of Elishah, Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim. Gen. x, 2, 4; 
1 Chron. i, 5, 7. B. C. after 2347. The name appears in Isa. lxvi, 19, 
where it is coupled with Tarshish, Pul, and Sud, and more particularly with 
Tubal and the “ isles afar off,” as representatives of the Gentile world ; in 
Ezek. xxvii, 13, among the places where the Syrians obtained articles of 
traffic; in Dan. viii, 21 ; x, 20, (compare xi, 2; Zech. ix, 13,) where Alex- 
ander the Great is styled king of Javan. From a comparison of these pas- 
sages there can be no doubt that Javan was the name given to Greece by 
the Hebrews, and believed to be the country settled by his posterity. (Kitto, 
Cyclopaedia ; M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia ; Smith, Dictionary, s. v.) 

JA/ZER, (Num. xxxii, 1, 3; Josh, xxi, 39; 2 Sam. xxiv, 5; 1 Chron. 
vi, 81 ; xxvi, 31 ; Isa. xvi, 8, 9 ; Jer. xlviii, 32.) See Jaazer. 

JA'ZIZ, (Heb. Yaziz', W\ shining, prominent ,) a Hagarite, and overseer 

of David’s flocks, (1 Chron. xxvii, 31,) which were probably pastured east 
of Jordan, where the forefathers of Jaziz had lived for ages. Compare chap, 
v, 19-22. B. C. about 1015. 

JEAT'ERAI, (Heb. Yeatheray', "nnXh perhaps rich,) a Levite of the 

family of Gershom, (1 Chron. vi, 21,) generally thought to be the same called 
Eihni in ver. 41. 


250 


JEBERECHIAH — JEDIAEL. 


JEBERECHFAH, (Heb. YebereJcyah', pp3n3\ whom Jehovah blesses,) 

the father of Zechariah, (not the prophet,) which latter Isaiah took as one 
of the witnesses of his marriage with “ the prophetess,” (Isa. viii, 2,) or, as 
Delitzsch thinks, ( Commentary , in loco,) as witnesses of the writing upon 
the tablet. B. C. about 742. 

JECAMFAH, (1 Chron. iii, 18,) elsewhere Jekamiah, (q. v.) 
JECHOLFAH, (Heb. Yekolyali', }PP$>3\ °bl e through Jehovah ,) 

wife of Amariah, king of Judah, and mother of Azariah, or Uzziah. 
2 Kings xv, 2. B. C. 826-810. In 2 Chron. xxvi, 3, her name is given as 
Jecoliah. 

JECHONFAS, the Greek form (Matt, i, 11, 12) of the name of King 
Jechoniah, (q. v.) 

JECOLFAH, (2 Chron. xxvi, 3.) See Jecholiah. 

JECONFAH, an altered form of the name of King Jehoiachin, (q. v.,) 
found in 1 Chron. iii, 16, 17 ; Esther ii, 6; Jer. xxiv, 1; xxvii, 20; xxviii, 
4 ; xxix, 2. 

JEDAFAH, (Heb. Yedayah'.) 

1. (fPT, praising God,) the son of Shimri and father of Allon, of the an- 
cestors of Ziza, a chief Simeonite, who migrated to the valley of Gedor. 
1 Chron. iv, 37. B. C. before 715. 

2. (Hebrew same as preceding,) son of Harumaph, and one of those who 
repaired the walls of Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 10. B. C. 445. 

3. (rPirr, knowing Jehovah ,) the chief of the second division of priest as 

arranged by David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 7. B. C. 1015 

4. (Hebrew same as preceding,) a priest officiating in Jerusalem after the 
captivity, (1 Chron. ix. 10: Neh. xi, 10:) in the latter passage called the 
son of Joiarib, (probably a corrupt reading.) He seems to have belonged 
to the family of Jeshua, 973 of his relatives accompanying him from Babylon. 
Plzra ii, 36; Neh. vii, 39. A Jedaiah is mentioned in Neh. xii, 6, 7, 19, 21, 
but whether the same person or not is difficult to decide, some (Smith, 
Dictionary) holding that there were two priestly families of this name. He 
is probably identical with the Jedaiah whom the prophet was directed to 
crown with the symbolical wreath. Zech. vi, 10-14. B. C. 536-517. 

JEDIA'EL, (Heb. JediaeV , known of God.) 

1. One of the “ sons ” of Benjamin, ancestor of many Benjamite families, 
numbering, according to David’s census, 17,200 warriors. 1 Chron. vii, 6, 
10, 11. He is usually identified with Ashbel, (1 Chron. viii, 1,) but may 
have been a later descendant of Benjamin, who reached the first rank by 
reason of the fruitfulness of his house and the decadence of elder branches. 
(Smith, Dictionary, s. v.) 

2. The son of Shimri, and one of David’s heroes, (1 Chron. xi, 45,) and, 
perhaps, the chief of Manasseh who joined David at Ziklag. Chap, xii, 20. 
B. C. 1056-1047. 

3. The second son of Meshelemiah, and a Korhite of the Levitical family 
of “ the sons of Asaph.” He was appointed a door-keeper of the taber- 
nacle by David. 1 Chron. xxvi, 2. B. C. 1015. 


JEDIDAH— JEIIIEL. 


251 


JEDFDAH, (Heb. Tedidah ', JTVT, beloved ,) the daughter of Adaiali of 
Boscath, wife of King Araon and mother of Josiah. 2 Kings xxii, 1. B.C.043. 

JEDXDFAH, (Heb. Yedideyah ', !TH'n\ beloved by Jehovah ,) the name 
given by God through Nathan to S domon. 2 Sam. xii, 25. 

JEDFTHUN, (Heb. Yedithun', jtfVT,) the form given in 1 Chron. xvi, 
38 : Neh. xi, 17 ; Psa. xxxix, title ; and lxxvii, title, of Jeduthun, (q. v.) 
JEDU'THUN, (Heb. Yeduthun', pflVP, he who Raises,) a Merarite, and 

one of the masters of the sacred music appointed by David. 1 Chron. xvi, 
41, 42; xxv, 1, 3, etc. B. C. 1015. From a comparison of 1 Chron. xv, 
17, 19, with xvi, 41, 42; xxv, 1, 3, 6; 2 Chron. xxxv, 15, some identify 
him witli Ethan. In 2 Chron. xxxv, 15, he is called the “ king’s seer.” 
His sons appear sometimes as exercising the same office, (1 Chron. xxv, 
1, 3,) at others as door keepers. Chap, xvi, 42. His descendants are men- 
tioned (2 Chron. xxix, 14) as taking part in purifying the temple in the reign 
of Hezekiah, and later still (Neh. xi, 17 ; 1 Chron. ix, 16) employed about 
the singing. His name is used (2 Chron. xxxv, 15) instead of Jeduthunites, 
(sons of Jeduthun.) 

JEE'ZER, (Heb. Ie'zer, “ifJPNJ, abridged for Abiezer,) a son of Gihad of 
Manasseh, (Nura. xxvi, 30,) elsewhere (Josh, xvii, 2, etc.) called Abiezer, (q. v.) 

JEHALE'LEEL, (Heb. YehalleleV, praiser of God,) a descend- 

ant of Judah whose own immediate parentage is not known. Four of his 
sons are enumerated, 1 Chron. iv, 16. 

JEHAI/EXjEL, (Heb. same as above,) a Merarite Levite whose son, 
Azariah, took part in the restoration of the temple in the time of Hezekiah. 
2 Chron. xxix, 12. B. C. 726. 

JEHDEFAH, some JEHDE'IAH, or JEHDEFAH, (Heb. Yechde- 
ya'hu, },T*in\ whom, Jehovah makes joyous.) 

1. A descendant of Shubael, or Shebuel, of the family of Gershom, and 
head of a division of the Levitical temple attendants as arranged by David. 
1 Chron. xxiv, 20; compare xxiii, 16. B. C. 1015. 

2. A Meronothite who had charge of the royal asses under David. 
1 Chron. xxvii, 30. B. C. 1015. 

JEHEZ'EKEIj, (Heb. YechezkeV, ^KpTIT. whom God strengthens ,) the 

head of the twentieth “ course ” of priests under David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 16. 
See Ezekiel. 

JEHFAH, (Heb. Yechiyah ', n s IT, God liveth,) a Levite associated with 

Obed-edom as “door-keeper of the ark” when brought by David to Jeru- 
salem. 1 Chron. xv, 24. B. C. 1042. Called Jeliiel, or Jeiel, in ver. 18. 

JEHI'EIi, (Heb. Yechiel', God lives , or God's living one , Nos. 1 

and 2. Yeiel, treasured of God.) 

1. A Benjamite, apparently the founder (“father”) of and resident at 
Gibeon, and the husband of Maachah. A number of his sons are named. 

1 Chron. ix, 35, sq. ; compare viii, 29. B. C. perhaps about 1400. 


252 


J EH I ELI — JEHOAHAZ. 



2. The son of Hothan, an Aroerite, one of David’s heroes. 1 Chron. xi, 
44. B. C. 1047. 

3. A Levite “of the second degree” appointed by David to play upon a 
psaltery on the occasion of the removal of the ark to Jerusalem. 1 Chron. 
xv, 18, 20, in which former passage he and those named with him are called 
“porters.” He is apparently the Jeliiah of ver. 24. By some (M’Clintock 
and Strong) he is identified with the Gershonite head of the Bene-Laadan in 
the time of David (1 Chron. xxiii, 8) who had charge of the treasures. 
1 Chron. xxix, 8. If so, his descendants were called Jehieli , (Jehielites.) 
1 Chron. xxvi, 21. B. C. 1042-1015. 

4. Son of Hachmoni, (or a Hachmonite,) who was “ with the king’s sons,” 
probably as tutor. 1 Chron. xxvii, 32. The mention of Aliithophel (ver. 33) 
seems to fix the date before the revolt. B. C. perhaps about 1030. 

5. The second-named of the six brothers of Jehoram, and son of King 
Jehoshaphat. 2 Chron. xxi, 2. These brothers were all murdered by Jeho- 
ram upon his accession. Yer. 4. B. C. 889. 

6. One of the descendants (“ sons ”) of Heman the singer, who assisted 
King Hezekiah in his reformations, (2 Chron. xxix, 14,) and probably the 
same person who was appointed one of the superintendents of the sacred 
offerings. 2 Chron. xxxi, 13. B. C. 726. 

7. One of the “ rulers of the house of God,” who contributed liberally to- 
ward the temple sacrifices in the time of King Josiah. 2 Chron. xxxv, 8. 
B. C. 623. 

8. The father of Obadiah, which latter returned, with 218 males of the 
sons of Joab, from Babylon with Ezra. Ezra viii, 9. B. C. before 457. 

9. A priest, one of the “ sons ” of Harim, who divorced his Gentile wife 
after the exile. Ezra x, 21. B. C. 457. 

10. One of the “ sons ” of Elam, who put away his Gentile wife after the 
captivity, (Ezra x, 26,) and probably the father of Shechaniah, who proposed 
that measure. Yer. 2. B. C. 457. 

JEHI'ELI, (Heb. Yechieli ', Jehielite, ,) a Gershonite Levite of the 

family of Laadan. His sons had charge of the treasures of the Lord’s 
house. 1 Chron. xxvi, 21, 22. B. C. about 1015. 

JEHIZKI'AH, (Heb. Yechizkiya'hu , ^rPpTfY, the same as Hezekiah , whom 

Jehovah strengthens ,) the son of Shallum, one of the leaders of Ephraim, 
who, at the instance of Obed the prophet, insisted upon the liberation of the 
captives brought into Samaria by the army under Pekah in the campaign 
against Judah. 2 Chron. xxviii, 12 ; compare vers. 8, 13, 15. B. C. about 
741. 

JEHO'ADAH. (Heb. Yehoaddah', iYiyilY, whom Jehovah adorns,) son of 

Aliaz, the great-grandson of Jonathan, the son of Saul, (1 Chron. viii, 36,) 
called Jarah (q. v.) iu 1 Chron. ix, 42. B. C. considerably after 1037. 

JEHOAD'DAN, (Heb. Yehoaddan' , j"P = Jehoadah,) a woman of Je- 

rusalem, queen of Joash and mother of Arnaziah. 2 Kings xiv, 2 ; 2 Chron. 
xxv, 1. B. C. 864-839. 

JEHO'AHAZ, (Heb. Yehodchaz ', fflNiiT, whom Jehovah sustains.') 

1. The son and successor of Jehu, the twelfth king of Israel after the 


JEHOASH. 


253 


division of the kingdom. 2 Kings x, 35. He reigned seventeen yea r s. B. C. 
856-839. Following the sins of Jeroboam, the Syrians prevailed over his 
forces until they were reduced to fifty horsemen, ten chariots, and 10,000 foot- 
men. In his humiliation he besought Jehovah, and a deliverer was granted 
to Israel, probably in the person of Jehoash, (q. v.,) his son, who expelled 
the Syrians and re-established the affairs of the kingdom. 2 Kings xiii, 
1-9, 25. 

2. The third son of Josiali by Hamutal, called Shallum in 1 Chron. iii, 15, 
where he is given as the fourth son, but by a comparison of 2 Kings xxiii, 
31, and 2 Chron. xxxvi, 11, we find that Zedekiah was the younger. After 
his father had been slain in resisting the progress of Pharaoh-necho, Jehoa- 
liaz was raised to the throne, at the age of twenty-three years, in preference 
to his elder brother, Jehoiakim. 2 Kings xxiii, 31, 36. He was anointed at 
Jerusalem, (ver. 30,) and found the land full of trouble, but free from idolatry. 
Yer. 24. He is described as an evil-doer (ver. 32) and an oppressor, (Ezek. 
xix, 3.) but seems to have been lamented by the people. Jer. xxii, 10 ; Ezek. 
xix, 1. Pharaoh-necho, upon his return from the Euphrates, removed him 
from the throne, and put Jehoiakim in his place. Jehoahaz was taken first 
to Riblah in Syria, and then to Egypt, where he died. His reign lasted 
only three months. B. C. 610. 

3. The name given (2 Chron. xxi, 11 ; xxv, 23) to the youngest son of 
Jehoram, king of Judah ; usually called Ahaziah, (q. v.) 

JEHO'ASH, (Heb. Yehodsh ', Jehovah-given— Joash.) 

/ T : 

1. The eighth king of Judah, and son of King Ahaziah (2 Kings xi, 2) by 

ZibUh. 2 Kings xii, 1 ; 2 Chron. xxiv, 1. He was born B. C. about 885. 
His aunt, Jeliosheba, saved him from the massacre by Athaliah, (q. v.) 
(1) Made King. At the age of seven years he seems to have been the only 
Jiving descendant of Solomon, and was then brought into the temple and 
anointed king. The noisy greeting that was accorded him brought Atha- 
liah to the temple, where she was seized and slain. B. C. 878. (2) Reign. 

Jehoash behaved well as long as Jehoiada, his uncle, lived. Excepting 
that the high places were still resorted to for incense and sacrifice, pure 
rel gion was restored and the temple was repaired. But after the death 
of his aged counselor evil advisers led him into sin ; the law was neg- 
lected, idolatry prevailed, and God’s anger kindled against him. Prophets 
were sent to warn him, but the ungrateful king responded by putting 
to death Zechariah, the son and successor of his benefactor Jehoiada. In 
about a year Hazael, king of Syria, came against him, overcame his forces, 
and, appearing before Jerusalem, was bought off with the treasures of the 
temple. (3) Death. Jehoash also suffered from a painful malady, and was 
at length slain by his own servants. B. C. 838. He was buried in the 
city of David, but not in the sepulcher of the kings. 2 Kings xi, xii; 
2 Chron. xxiv. He is one of the three kings omitted in the genealogy of 
Curist. Matt, i, 8. 

2. The son and successor of Jehoahaz, king of Israel. (1) Reig“n. He 
became viceroy to his father, B. C. 841, (2 Kings xiii, 10,) reigning thirteenth 
over the separate kingdom sixteen years, including his viceroyship. B. C. 
84L-825. According to the scriptural account, Jehoash “did that which 
was evil in the sight of the Lord ; iie departed not from all the sins of 
Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel sin : but he walked therein.” 


254 


JEHOHANAN — JEHOIACHIN. 


2 Kings xiii, 11. Josephus says (Ant., ix, 8, 6) that “ He was a good man, 
and in disposition was not at all like liis father.” The statement in Kings 
is supposed, by some, to refer to the first part of his reign, while that of 
Josephus relates to the latter part, after a reclamation. (2) Interview with 
Elisha. Jehoash held Elisha in great veneration, and when he heard of 
the prophet’s last illness he went to his bedside, wept over him, and said, 
“ 0 my lather, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof.” 
The prophet promised him deliverance from the Syrian yoke in Aphek, and 
bid him smite upon the ground. The king smote thrice and then stayed, 
whereupon the prophet rebuked him for staying, and limited to three his 
victories over Syria. These promises were accomplished after the prophet’s 
death, Jehoash in three successive victories overcoming the Syrians and 
retaking from them the towns which Hazael had rent from Israel. 2 Kings xiii, 
10, sq. (3) War. The success of Jehoash appears to have made Amaziah, 
king of Judah, jealous, and he sought a quarrel with him. Jehoash replied 
with the parable of the “ Thistle and the Cedar.” But Amaziah was deter- 
mined in his purpose, and a war ensued in which Jehoash was victorious. 
Having defeated Amaziah in Beth-shemesh, in Judah, he advanced against 
Jerusalem, broke down the walls to the extent of four hundred cubits, and 
carried away the treasures both of the temple and the palace, together with 
hostages for the future good behavior of Amaziah. 2 Chron. xxv. Jehoash 
soon after his victory died in peace, and was buried in Samaria. 2 Kings 
xiv, 1-17. (Smith, Dictionary.) 

JEHO'HANAN, some JEHOHA'NAN, (Heb. Yehoclianan', pni.T, 
Jehovah-given.) T T ! 

1. A Korhite, and head of the sixth division of the Levitical temple por- 
ters. 1 Chron. xxvi, 3. B. C. about 1015. 

2. The second-named of the “captains” of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah. 
He commanded 280,000 men, (2 Chron. xvii, 15,) and is, probably, the same 
whose son Ishmael supported Jehoiada in the restoration of prince Jehoash. 
2 Chron. xxiii, 1. B. C. 912. 

3. An Israelite of the family of Bebai, who divorced his Gentile wife 
after the exile. Ezra x, 28. B. C. 456. 

4. A leading priest, descendant of Amariah, which latter returned with 
Zerubbabel. He was contemporary with Joiakim. Nell. xii, 13; compare 
vers. 2 and 12. B. C. considerably after 536. 

5. A priest who took part in the musical services at the dedication of the 
walls of Jerusalem by Nehemiah. Neh. xii, 42. B. C. 445. 

JEHOI'ACHIN, (Heb. Yehoyakin ', appointed of Jehovah ,) sou of 

Jehoiakim, king of Judah, and Nehushta, daughter of Elnathan of Jerusa- 
lem. B. C. 617. (1) Reign. He succeeded his father as the nineteenth 

king over the separate kingdom, and reigned three months and ten days. 
His age at his accession was eighteen years, according to 2 Kings xxiv, 8, but 
eight years according to 2 Chron. xxxvi, 9. See Difficulties. Jehoiachin 
“did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord,” and probably opposed 
the interests of the Chaldean empire, for in three months after his accession 
we find Nebuchadnezzar laying siege to Jerusalem, as Jeremiah had pre- 
dicted, Jer. xxii, 18-30. Jerusalem was at the time quite defenseless, and 
in a short time Jehoiachin surrendered at discretion, and (with the queen- 
motlier, and all his servants, captains, and officers) to Nebuchadnezzar, who 


JEIIOIADA. 


255 


carried them, with the eunuchs and harem, to Babylon. Jer. xxix, 12 ; Ezek. 
xvii, 2 ; xix, 9. The number of captives is given in 2 Kings xxiv, 14, as 
10,000, including warriors, craftsmen, and others. Nebuchadnezzar also 
took the treasures found in palace and temple, (ver. 13.) and placed Matta- 
niali, the only surviving son of Josiah, on the throne, changing his name to 
Zedekiah. 2 Kings xxiv, 11. B. C. 599. (2) Captivity. Jehoiacliin was 
placed in prison in Babylon, where he remained for thirty-six years, until 
the death of Nebuchadnezzar, when Evil-merodaeh not only released him, 
but gave him a seat at his own table and an allowance for his support. 

2 Kiugs xxv, 27-30 ; Jer. lii, 31-34. We learn from Jer. xxviii, 4, that four 
years after he had gone to Babylon there was an expectation at Jerusalem 
of Jel oiachin’s return, but Jeremiah accuses Hananiah, who thus prophe- 
sied, of falsehood. Yer. 15. The tenor of Jeremiah’s letter to the elders of , 
the captivity (chap, xxix) would seem to indicate that there was a pany 
among the captivity who were looking for the overthrow of Nebuchadnezzar 
and the return of Jelioiachin. Neither Daniel nor Ezekiel makes any further 
allusion to him, except that Ezekiel dates his prophecies by the year “ of 
King Jehoiachin’s captivity,” (chap, i, 2 ; viii, 1 ; xxiv, 1, etc.,) the latest 
date being the twenty-seventh 3 r ear. Chap, xxix, 17 ; xl, 1. 

Difficulties.— (i) Jehoiachin’s Age. He was at his accession eighteen years 
of age, according to 2 Kings xxiv, 8, but only eight according to 2 Chron. 
xxxvi, 9. The usual explanation of this difference is that he reigned ten years in 
conjunction with his father. This would make him eight at the beginning of his 
joint reign, and eighteen when he began to reign alone. “ The probability is that 
‘eight’ in the latter text is a corruption, (the \ 10, being dropped out.)”— Haley, 
Discrepancies. (2) Time of Capture. His capture was in Nebuchadnezzar’s 
eighth year, according to 2 Kings xxiv, 12 ; but in the seventh according to Jer. lii, 
28. This discrepancy may have arisen either from a slight mistake in numeral 
letters or else from a different method of counting regnal years. (Haley, Discrep- 
ancies.) (3) Childless. The expression (Jer. xxii, 30) “ Write ye this man child- 
less” refers to his having no successor on the throne, for he had children. (See 
Methodist Quarterly Review, October, 1852, pp. 602-004 ; M’Clintock and Strong’s 
Cyclopaedia ; Smith, Dictionary, s. v.) 

JEHOI'AIDA, (Heb. Yehoyada', JTPiiT, icnoivn of Jehovah.) 

1. The father of Benaiah, one of David’s chief warriors. 2 ^am. viii, 18 ; 
xx, 23; xxiii, 20, 22; 1 Kings i, 8, 26, 32, 36, 38, 44; ii, 25, 29, 34, 35, 
46; iv, 4; 1 Chron. xi, 22, 24; xviii, 17 ; xxvii, 5. B. C. before 1040. He 
is probably the same person mentioned as leader of 3,700 Aaronites woo 
assisted David at Hebron. 1 Chron. xii, 27. In 1 Chron. xxvii, 34, his name 
seems to have been transposed with that of his son, although Keil (Com- 
mentary, in loco ) suggests that the Jehoiada mentioned there was a grandson 
of this Jehoiada. 

2. The high-priest at the time of Athaliah’s usurpation, (B. C. 884-8*78, ) 
and during most of the reign of Jehoash. He married Jehosheba, daughter 
of King Jehorara and sister of King Aliaziah. When Athaliah slew the 
royal family, Jehoiada with his wife, stole and secreted Jehoash, and after 
six years placed him on the throne. In this revolution Jehoiada showed 
great tact and ability. He waited until public sentiment seemed ripe for a 
change, and then entered into secret alliance with the chief partisans of the 
house of David and of the true religion. He gathered at Jerusalem the 
Levites from the different cities, and concentrated a large concealed force in 
the temple by the expedient of not dismissing the old courses of prii sts 
and Levites when their successors came to relieve them. These were 


256 


JEHOIAKIM. 


armed by means of the shields and armor deposited in the temple treasury 
by David, divided into three bands, and posted at the principal entrances. 
The courts were filled with people favorable to the cause, and then Jelioi- 
ada produced the young king, and crowned and anointed him, and presented 
him with a copy of the Law, according to Deut. xvii, 18-20. Nor did Je- 
hoiada forget the sanctity of the temple, none but the priests and minister- 
ing Levites being allowed to enter ; and strict orders having been given that 
Athaliah should not be slain within its precincts. The new reign was in- 
augurated by a solemn covenant between himself, as liigh-priest, and the 
people and king to renounce the worship of Baal, which was followed bv 
the destruction of the altar and temple of Baal and the death of his priest, 
Mattan. His influence over the young king was very beneficial, who ruled 
.well and prosperously during Jehoiada’s life-time. The restoration of the 
temple in the twent 3 r -third year of his reign was carried on under Jehoiada’s 
supervision. For account of tins work see 2 Kings xii and 2 Chron. xxiv. 
At length he died at the age of 130 years, (2 Chron. xxiv, 15,) and, as a sig- 
nal honor, was buried “ in the city of David among the kings.’ 1 B. C. about 
850. He is, doubtless, the same with Berechiali (Baracliias) of Matt, 
xxiii, 35. 

3. Tne son of Paseah, apparently one of the chief priests who with Me- 
shullam repaired the “old gate” of Jerusalem. Nell, iii, 6. B. C. 446. 

4. A priest who was in Jerusalem when the Jews were led into captivity, 
but who was displaced, Zephaniah being put in his stead. Jer. xxix, 26. 

JHHOI'AKIM, the eighteenth king of the separate kingdom of Judah. 

1. Name and Family. (Heb. Yehoyakim D'jTiiTj Jehovah-established.) 

His original name was Eliakim, but its equivalent, Jehoiakim, was given 
him by Pharaoh-necho, the Egyptian king. He was the second son of 
Josiali by Zebudah, the daughter of Pedaiah of Rumah. 2 Kings xxiii, 36. 
Born B. C. 635. 

2. Personal History. (1) Made King. Jehoiakim’s younger brother, 

Jehoalmz, or Shallum, (Jer. xxii, LI,) was made king at the death of Ins fa- 
ther, Josiah. The intention, probably, was for him to follow up his father’s 
policy in siding with Nebuchadnezzar against Egypt. Pharaoh-necho, hav- 
ing overcome all resistance with his victorious army, deposed Jehoahaz, 
made him a prisoner in Riblah, and afterward took him to Egypt. He set 
Eliakim upon the throne, (B. C. 610,) changing his nain • to Jeuoiakim, auu 
charged him with collecting a tribute of 100 talents of silver and a tal- 
ent of gold, (nearly $200,000.) (2) Made a Vassal. Alter the battle of 
Carehernish Nebuchadnezzar cap u red Jerusalem, and, taking the king pris- 
oner, “bound him in fetters to carry him to Babylon.” He also took ”of 
the vessels of the house of the Lord,” and carried them to the temple of 
Bel (lus god) in Babylon. 2 Kings xxiii, 33, 34 ; 2 Chron. xxxvi 6, 7. B. C. 
607-606. Nebuchadnezzar, for some reason, seems to have abandoned his 
intention of conveying Jehoiakim to Babylon, and restored him to his 
throne as a vassal. 2 Kings xxiv, 1 ; Jer. xxv, 1 . (3) Destroys the Roll. 

In the fourth year of Jehoiakim’s reign the prophet Jeremiah caused a col- 
lection of his prophecies to be written out by Baruch and publicly read in 
the temple. This coming to the knowledge of the king, he sent for it and 
had it read before him. He listened to only a small portion of it, and then 
took the roll, and, cutting it in pieces, burned it in the fire. But Jeremiah 


JKHOTARIB. 


257 


was bidden to take another roll and write upon it the same words, with 
the addition of anotlier and an awful denu iciation. Jer. xxxvi. (4) Rebell- 
ion and Death. A'ter three years of subjection Jehoiakim, deluded l>y tlio 
Egyptian party in his court, (compare Josephus, Ant, x, 6, 2,) withheld his 
tribute and rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar. 2 Kings xxiv, 1. This step 
was taken against the earnest protestation of Jeremiah, and in violat on of 
his oath. We are not informed as to what moved Jehoiakim to this rebell- 
ion, but it may be that seeing Egypt entirely severed from the affairs of 
Syria since the battle of Carchemish, and Nebuchadnezzar wholly occupied 
with distant wars, he hoped to make himself entirely independent. His 
reign was now turbulent and unhappy. Bands of Chaldeans, Syrians, 
Moabites, and Ammonites came against him (2 Kings xxiv, 2) and cruelly 
harassed the country. It was perhaps at this time that the great drought 
occurred described in Jer. xiv. Compare Jer. xv, 4, with 2 Kings xxiv, 2, 3. 
In the closing years of his reign the Ammonites appear to have overrun 
the land of Gad, (Jer. xlix, 1,) and other nations ravaged Israel. Ezek. xxv. 
Jehoiakim came to his end, as was predicted, in a violent manner, and his 
body was thrown over the wall, perhaps to convince the enemy of his death. 
It was afterward taken away and given an unhonored burial. Jer. xxii, 18, 19 ; 
xxxvi, 30; 2 Kings xxiii, 36; xxiv, 1-7 ; 2 Chron. xxxvi, 4-8. B. C. 599. 

3. Character. Jehoiakim was a vicious and irreligious man, and one 
who encouraged the abominations of idolatry, (Jer. xix, which chapter is 
supposed to refer to his reign.) The vindictive pursuit of Urijah, and the 
indignities offered to his corpse by the king's com maud, are samples of his 
irreligion and cruelty. His daring impiety is shown by his treatment of 
the roll containing Jeremiah's prophecy ; and his selfishness is shown by 
liis spending large sums in building magnificent palaces for himself when 
the land was impoverished by the tributes laid upon it by Egypt and Baby- 
lon. Jer. xxii, 14, 15. 

Difficulties. — (1) No Successor. In Jer. xxxvi, 30, it is predicted of Jehoiakim 
that “ He shall have none to sit upon the throne of David,” while 2 Kings xxiv, 6, 
states that “ Jehoiachin his son reigned in his stead.” In answer, we state that 
Jehoiachin’s reign lasted but three months, and the Hebrew term rendered “sit ” 
in Jeremiah implies some degree of permanence ; and hence there is no collision 
between the passages. (Haley, Discrepancies, p. 34fi.) (2) Carried to Babylon, 
etc. It is stated in 2 Chron. xxxvi, 6, that Nebuchadnezzar bound Jehoiakim in 
fetters to carry him to Babylon ; but in 2 Kings xxiv, 6, it is said that he “ slept 
with his fathers,” and in Jer. xxii, 19, that his body should be “cast forth beyond 
the gates of Jerusalem.” The probability is that he was bound with the intention 
of carrying him to Babylon, but instead was slain and his corpse ignominiously 
treated. (Rawlinson.) 

JEHOI'ARIB, (Heb. Yeh6yarib ' ZPTliT, whom Jehovah defends ,) head 

of the first of the twenty-four courses of priests, as arranged by David. 
1 Cliron. xxiv, 7. B. 0. about 1015. Some of his descendants returned 
from the Babylonish captivity. 1 Chron. ix, 10; Neh. xi, 10. Jewish tra- 
dition asserts that only four of the courses returned from Babylon, namely, 
Jedaiah, Immer, Pashur, and Harim, and that they were subdivided into six 
each, to keep up the old number of twenty-four. But we find that other of 
the priestly courses are mentioned as returning, (Neh. x, 2-8,) and in the 
list (Neh. xii, 1-7) that of Jehoiarib is expressly mentioned. In the other 
passages the name is abbreviated, both in Hebrew and Authorized Version, 
to Joiarib, (q. v.) 


253 


JEHONADAB— JEHORAM. 


JEHON'ADAB, (Heb. Yehonadab', whom Jehovah impels) 

1. The son of Shimeah, and nephew of David, and a friend of Amnon. 
He gave the latter the wicked advice that resulted in the ensnaring of 
Amnon’s sister, Tamar. 2 Sam. xiii, 3. B. C. about 1032. When Amnon 
was murdered by Absalom, and the exaggerated report reached David tliat 
all the princes were slaughtered, Jonadab was aware of the real fact, and, 
being with the king, assured him that Amnon alone was slain. 2 Sam. xiii, 
32, 33. 

2. A son (or descendant) of Rechab, the founder of a peculiar tribe, who 
bound themselves to abstain from wine, and never to relinquish the nomadic 
life. This mode of life, partly monastic, partly Bedouin, was adhered to 
from generation to generation, and when, many years after the death of 
Jehonadab, the Recliabites were forced to take refuge from the Chaldean 
invasion within the walls of Jerusalem, nothing would induce them to 
transgress the rule of their ancestor. Jer. xxxv, 19. The single occasion 
in which Jehonadab appears before us in the historical narrative is in 
2 Kings x, 15, sq. B. C. 884. Jehu was advancing, after the slaughter of 
Beth-eked, on the city of Samaria, and met Jehonadab. Upon being as- 
sured that he was in sympathy with the king, he was taken up into the 
chariot and intrusted with the king’s secret, namely, the destruction of the 
Baalites. He then proceeded to Samaria in the royal chariot. It may be 
that Jehonadab had been commissioned by the people of Samaria to meet 
the king on the road and appease him. If so, his venerable character, his 
rank as head of a tribe, and his neutral position, well qualified him for the 
task. No doubt he acted with Jehu throughout, but the only occasion in 
which he is expressly mentioned is when he went with Jehu through the 
temple of Baal to turn out any that might happen to be in the mass of pa- 
gan worshippers. 2 Kings x, 23. (Smith ; M’Clintock and Strong.) 

JEHON'ATHAN, (Heb. Yehonathan', fnJilT, Jehovah-given.) 

1. The full Hebrew form of the name Jonathan, (q. v.,) the oldest son of 
Kiug Saul. The name is given in the Authorized Version in the shorter 
form. 

2. The son of Uzziah, and superintendent of certain of King David’s 
store-houses. 1 Chron. xxvii, 25. B. C. 1015. 

3. The name of one of the Levites sent by Jeliosliaphat through the 
cities of Judah to teach the Law to the people. 2 Chron. xvii, 8. B. C. 
912. 

4. The name of a priest, (Neh. xii, 18,) and a representative of the fam- 
ily of Shemaiah (ver. 6) in the days of Joiakim. B. C. after 536. 

JEHO'RAM, (Heb. Yehoram ', D’li.T, exalted by Jehovah) contracted 
form Joram, ( Yoram , D"lV-) T : 

1. The son of Ahab and Jezebel, and successor of his brother Ahaziah, 
who died childless. He was the tenth king on the separate throne of Is- 
rael, and reigned twelve years. B. C. 896-884. 2 Kings i, 17 ; iii, 1. 

1. Personal History. (1) War against Moabites. After the death of 
Ahab the Moabites, who had been tributary to Israel, asserted their inde- 
pendence; and their king (Mesha) withheld his tribute of 100,000 lambs 
and 100,000 rams, with the wool. Thereupon Jelioram asked and obtained 
the help of Jeliosliaphat (king of Judah) in a war against the revolting 


JEHORAM. 


259 


Moab'tes. (2) Interview with Elisha. While marching through the wil- 
derness of Edom the armies were in great danger through lack of water. 
Jehoshaphat suggested an inquiry of some prophet of Jehovah, and ElHia 
was found with the host. He severely rebuked Jehoram, and bid him inquire 
of the prophets of Baal ; but afterward predicted a great victory over the 
Moabites. (3) Victory. The king was directed to have many ditches dug 
in the valley, and was assured that they would be filled immediately with 
water. The Moabites, advancing, saw the water reddened like blood With 
the rays of the morning sun, and concluding that the allies had fallen out 
and slain each other, advanced incautiously. They were put to rout, and 
their land utterly ravaged. 2 Kings iii, 1-25. (4) Invasion of Samaria. 

A little later war again broke out between Syria and Israel, and we find 
Elisha befriending Jehoram. The king was made acquainted with the se- 
cret counsels of the Syrian king, and was thus enabled to defeat them ; and 
the blinding of the Syrian soldiers by God procured a cessation of the in- 
vasion. 2 Kings vi, 8-23. (5) Further Disasters. But it seems probable 

that when the Syrian inroads ceased, and he felt less dependent upon the 
aid of the prophet, he relapsed into idolatry, and was rebuked by Elisha, 
and threatened with a return of the calamities from which he had escaped. 
Refusing to repent, a fresh invasion by the Syrians and a close siege of 
Samaria actually came to pass, according, probably, to the word of the 
prophet. Hence, when the terrible incident arose, in consequence of the 
famine, of a woman boiling aud eating her own child, the kina: immediately 
attributed the evil to Elisha, the son of Shaphat, and determined to take 
away his life. The providential interposition by which both Elisha’s life 
was saved and the city delivered is narrated in 2 Kings vii, and Jehoram 
appears to have returned to a friendly feeling toward Elisha. 2 Kings viii, 4. 
(6; Alliance with Ahaziah. It was very soon after the above events that 
Elisha went to Damascus and predicted the revolt of Hazael and his acces- 
sion to the throne of Syria iu the room of Ben-hadad. Jehoram seems to 
have thought the revolution in Syria, which immediately followed Elisha’s 
predic ion, a good opportunity to pursue his father’s favorite project of re- 
covering Rainoth-gilead from the Syrians. He accordingly made an alli- 
ance with his nephew Ahaziah, who had just succeeded Joram on the 
throne of Judah, and the two kings proceeded to occupy Ramoth-gilead by 
force. The expedition was an unfortunate one. Jehoram was wounded in 
battle, aud obliged to return to Jezreel to be healed of his wounds, (2 Kings 
viii, 29; ix, 14^ 15,) leaving his army under Jehu to hold Ramoth-gilead 
against Hazfael. Jehu, however, and the army under his command, revolted 
from their allegiance to Jehoram, (2 Kings ix,) and, hastily marching to 
Jezreel, surprised Jehoram, wounded and defenseless as lie was. Jehoram, 
going out to meet him, fell pierced by an arrow from Jehu’s bow on the 
very plat of ground which Ahab had wrested from Naboth the Jezreelite ; 
t us fulfilling to the letter the prophecy of Elijah. 1 Kings xxi, 21-29. 
With the life of Jehoram ended the dynasty of Omri. 

2. Character. Jehoram, like his father, was an idolater, laying aside 
his worship of Baal, probably after his rebuke by Elisha, but still clinging 
to ihe abominations of Jeroboam. 1 Kings xii, 26, 31, 32. (Smith.) 

2. Eldest son and successor of Jehoshaphat, and fifth king on the sepa- 
raie throne of Judah. He was crowned at the age of 32, and reigned 
eight years, from B. C. 892 to 884. 2 Kings viii, 16; 2 Chron. xxi, 1-6. Je- 
17 


260 


JEHOSHABEATH — JEHOSHAPHAT. 


hosheba, his daughter, was wife to the high-priest Jehoiada. As soon as 
he was fixed on the throne he put his six brothers to death, with m;iny of 
the chief nobles of the land. He then, probably at the instance of his wife, 
Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab, proceeded to establish the worship of 
Baal. 2 Kings viii, 18, 19. A prophetic writing from the aged prophet 
Elijah (2 Chron. xxi, 12-15) failed to produce any good effect upon him. 
This was in the first or second year of his reign. The remainder of it was 
a series of calamities. First the Edomites, who had been tributary to Je- 
hoshaphat, revolted from his dominion and, according to old prophecies, 
(Gen. xxvii, 40,) established their permanent independence. Next Libnah, 
one of the strongest fortified cities in Judah, (2 Kings xix, 8,) rebelled against 
him. Then followed invasions of armed bands of Philistines and of Ara- 
bians, who stormed the king’s palace, put his wives and all his children, 
except his youngest son, Ahaziah, to death, (2 Chron. xxii, 1.) or carried 
them into captivity, and plundered all his treasures. He died of a terrible 
disease (2 Chron. xxi, 19, 20) early in the twelfth year of his brother-in-law 
Jehoram’s reign over Israel. 

2. Character. Jehoram was an impious and cruel tyrant, manifesting 
his impiety by the setting up of Baal-worship in the high places, and pros- 
tituting the daughters of Judah to the infamous rites of Ashtoreth ; and 
showing his cruelty by the murder of all his brothers — the first example of 
that abominable mode of avoiding a disputed succession. 

Difficulties.— ( i) Jehoram’s Accession. It is stated in 2 Kings i, 17, that Je- 
horam, the son of Ahab, began to reign in the second year of Jehoram, the son 
of Jehoshaphat ; while in 2 Kings viii, 16, it says that the latter began to reign in 
the fifth year of the former. To reconcile these statements let us remember that 
Jehoram, the son of Jehoshaphat, was for some time joint ruler with his father. 
Now suppose that in the second year of this joint reign Jehoram (son of Ahab) 
began his reign ; then that in the fifth year of the latter the former began to reign 
alone. This will make the joint reign about five years long. (2) Jehoram’s Sons. 
In 2 Chron. xxi, 16, 17, it is stated that the sons of Jehoram were taken captive; 
but in 2 Chron. xxii, 1, that they were slain. The presumption is that they were 
first taken captive and afterward slain. (Haley, Discrepancies, p. 346.) 

3. One of the priests sent by Jehoshaphat to instruct the people in the 
law. 2 Chron. xvii, 8. B. C. 912. 

JEHOSHABE'ATH, (Heb. Yehoshabath ', the form in which 

the name of Jehosheba (q. v.) is given in 2 Chron. xxii, 11. It is stated 
here, but not in Kings, that she was the wife of Jelioiada, the high-priest. 

JEHOSH'AFHAT, (Heb. Yehoshaphaf , Jehovah judged.) 

1. Son of Ahilud, who filled the office of recorder or annalist in the 
courts of David (2 Sam. viii, 16; xx, 24; 1 Chron. xviii, 15) and Solomon. 
1 Kings iv, 3. B. C. 1040-1014. 

2. Son of Paruah. one of the twelve purveyors of King Solomon. 1 Kings 
iv, 17. His district was Issachar. B. C. 1014. 

3. The fourth king of the separate kingdom of Judah was the son of 
Asa, (by Azubah,) whom he succeeded on the throne B. C. 914, when he 
was thirty-five years old, and reigned twenty-five years. His history is to 
be found among the events recorded in 1 Kings xv, 24; 2 Kings viii, 16, or 
in a continuous narrative in 2 Chron. xvii, 1-xxi, 3. He was contemporary 
with Ahab, Ahaziah, and Jehoram. (1) Strengthens Himself. At first lie 
strengthened himself against Israel by fortifying and garrisoning the cities 


JEHOSHAPHAT. 


261 


of Judah and the Epliraimite conquests of Asa. 2 Chron. xvii, 1, 2. But 
soon afterward the two Hebrew kings, perhaps appreciating their common 
danger from Damascus and the tribes on their eastern frontier, formed an 
alliance. Jehoshaphat’s eldest son, Jehoram, married Athaliali, the daugh- 
ter of Ahab and Jezebel. (2) Resists Idolatry. In his own kingdom Je- 
hoshaphat ever showed himself a zealous follower of the commandments of 
God : he tried, it would seem not quite successfully, to put down the high 
places and groves in which the people of Judah burnt incense. 1 Kings xxii, 
43 ; 2 Chron. xvii, 6 ; xx, 33. In his third year he sent out certain 
princes, priests, and Levites, to go through the cities of Judah, teaching 
the people out of the Book of the Law. 2 Chron. xvii, 7-9. Riches and 
honors increased around him. He received tribute from the Philistines and 
Arabians, and kept up a large standing army in Jerusalem. 2 Chron. xvii, 
10, sq. (3) Alliance with Ahab. He went to Samaria to visit Ahab and 
become his ally against the Syrians. Desirous of consulting the Lord, Mi- 
ca h was sent for ; but he did not make the impression upon Jehoshaphat 
which might have been expected, or else the king felt bound in honor not 
to recede. He came very near falling a victim to the plan that Ahab had 
laid for his own safety, but escaped and returned to Jerusalem in peace. 
1 Kings xxii, sq. ; 2 Chron. xviii-xix, 1. There he met the just reproaches 
of the prophet Jehu, and went himself through the people, “ from Beer- 
sheba to Mount Ephraim,” reclaiming them to the law of God. 2 Chron. xix, 
1-3. (4) Further Reforms. He tried to remedy the many defects in the 

local administration of justice, and applied himself to their remedy. He 
appointed magistrates in every city, and a supreme council at Jerusalem, 
composed of priests, Levites, and “ the chief of the fathers,” to which dif- 
ficult cases were referred, and appeals brought from the provincial tribu- 
nals. 2 Chron. xix, 4-11. (5) Commerce. Turning his attention to foreign 

commerce, he built at Ezion-geber, with the help of Ahaziah, a navy de- 
signed to go to Ophir ; but it was wrecked at Ezion-geber. He afterward, 
through the advice of Eliezer the prophet, declined the co-operation of the 
king of Israel, and the voyage prospered. The trade was, however, soon 
abandoned. 2 Chron. xx, 35-37 ; 1 Kings xxii, 49. B. C. 896. (6) Wars. 

After the death of Ahaziah, king of Israel, Jehoram, his successor, per- 
suaded Jehoshaphat to join him in an expedition against Moab. The allied 
armies were saved by a miraculous supply of waters, and were afterward 
victorious over the enemy. 2 Kings iii, 4-27. Another war, and to Je- 
hoshaphat much more dangerous, was kindled by this. The Moabites 
turned their wrath against him, and induced the Ammonites, the Syrians, 
and the Edomites to unite with them. Jehoshaphat, believing that his help 
was to come from God, proclaimed a fast, and the people assembled in Je- 
rusalem to implore divine assistance. “ And Jehoshaphat stood in the con- 
gregation of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the Lord, before the 
new court. ... 0 our God, wilt thou not judge them ? for we have no 
might against this great company that cometh against us ; neither know we 
what to do; but our eyes are upon thee.” After he ceased praying Jeha- 
ziel, a Leviie, pronounced deliverance in the name of the Lord, assuring Ju- 
dah of the overthrow of the enemy without a blow from them. And so it 
happened ; for the allies quarreled among themselves and destroyed each 
other. This great event was recognized by the surrounding nations as the 
act of God, and they allowed Jehoshaphat to close his life in quiet. 


202 


JEHOSHEBA— JEHU. 


2 Chron. xx. During the last years of his reign his sen Jehoram (q. v.) 
was associated with him in the government. His name (Josaphat) occurs in 
the ancestral list of our Lord. Matt, i, 8. 

2. Character. The character of Jehoshaphat is thus summed up: 
“ Jehoshaphat sought the Lord with all his heart.” 2 Chron. xxii, 9. “ His 

good talents, the benevolence of his disposition, and his generally sound 
judgment, are shown not only in the great measures of domestic policy 
which distinguished his reign, but by the manner in which they were exe- 
cuted. No trace can be found in him of that pride which dishonored some 
and ruined others of the kings who preceded and followed him.” 

4. Son of Nimshi and father of King Jehu. 2 Kings ix, 2, 14. B. C. 
before 884. 

5. One of the priests who (1 Chron. xv, 24) were appointed to blow 
trumpets before the ark when it was carried from the house of Obed-edom 
to Jerusalem. B. C. about 1042. (M’Clintock and Strong ; Smith, s. v.) 

JEHOSH'EBA, (Heb. Yehoshe'ba, y^iiT, Jehovah her oath, that is, 

worshiper of Jehovah,) the daughter of Joram. king of Israel, and wife of 
Jehoiada, the high-priest. 2 Kings xi, 2. Her name in the Chronicles 
(2 Chron. xxii) is given Jehoshahtath. As she is called (2 Kings xi, 2) “the 
daughter of Joram , sister of Ahaziah,” it has been conjectured that she was 
the daughter, not of Athaliah, but of Joram by another wife. By her the 
infant Joash was rescued from the massacre of the seed royal by Aihaliah, 
and lie and his nurse secreted in the palace and afterward in the temple. 
2 Kings xi, 2, 3; 2 Chron. xxii, 11, 12. He was brought up, probably, with 
her sons, (2 Chron. xxiii, 11,) who assisted at his coronation. B. C. 884. 

JEHOSH'UA, (Num. xiii, 16,) or JEHOSH'UAH, (1 Chron. vii, 27.) 
fuller forms in the Authorized Version of the name Joshua, (q. v.) 

JEHOZ'ABAD, (Heb. Yehozabad', Jehovah given.) 

1. The son of Shomer, (or Shimrith, a Moabitess,) and one of the two 
servants who assassinated King Jehoash of Judah in that part of Jerusalem 
called Millo. 2 Kings xii, 21; 2 Chron. xiv, 26. B. C. about 839. 

2. A Korahite Levite, second son of Obed-edom, and one of the porters 
of the south gate of the temple, and of the store-house there in the time of 
David. 1 Chron. xxvi, 4, 15. B. C. about 1015. 

3. The last-named of Jehoshaphat’s generals, who had the command of 
180,000 troops. 2 Chron. xvii, 18. B. C. about 912. 

JEHOZ'ADAK, (Heb. Yehotsadak ' , p*Dfln\ justified by Jehovah, Author- 
ized Version, “ Josedech” in Haggai and Zechariah; also contracted Joza- 
dak in Ezra and Nehemiah,) son of the liigh-priest Seraiah at the time of 
the Babylonish captivity. 1 Chron. vi, 14, 15. B. C. 588. Whether he suc- 
ceeded to the high-priesthood after the slaughter of his father (2 Kings xxv 
18-21) is not known. But if he did he had no opportunity of performing 
the functions of liis office, as he was carried to Babylon by Nebuchadnez^ 
zar. 1 Chron. vi, 15. He probably died in exile, as his son Joshua (Jeshua) 
was the first high-priest who officiated after the return from captivity. Hag. 
i, 1, 12, 14; ii, 2, 4; Zech. vi, 11 ; Ezra iii, 2, 8; v, 2; x, 18; Neh. xii, 26.’ 

JE'HU, (Heb. Yehvf, frOT, Gesenius, “ Jehovah is He;" Furst, the 
living .) 


JEHU. 


263 


1. The son of Hanani; a prophet of Judah, but whose ministrations 
were chiefly directed to Israel. His father was probably the seer who re- 
buked Asa. 2 Chron. xvi, 7. He must have begun his career as a prophet 
when very young. He first denounced Baaslia, (1 Kings xvi, ], 7,) and 
then, after an interval of thirty years, re-appears to reprove Jehoshaphat 
for his alliance with Ahab. 2 Chron. xix, 2, 3. He survived Jehoshaphat 
and wrote Ins life. Chap, xx, 34. B. C. 930-889. (Smith, s. v.) 

2. The eleventh king of the separate kingdom of Israel. 

1. Family. Jehu was the son of Jehoshaphat, (2 Kings ix, 2,) and the 
grandson of Nimshi, although sometimes called the latter’s son. 1 Kings 
xix, 16. 

2. Personal History. The first appearance of Jehu is when, with a 

comrade in arms, Bidkar, he rode behind Ahab on the journey from Samaria 
to Jezreel. 2 Kings ix, 25. Elijah was commanded at Horeb to anoint him 
king, but, for unknown reasons, did not do so. 1 Kings xix, 16, 17. 
(1) Anointed King. Jehu meantime, iu the reigns of Ahaziah and Jelio- 
ram, had risen to importance. He was, under the last-named king, captain 
of the host iu the siege of Ramoth-gilead. While in the midst of the offi- 
cers of the besieging army a youth suddenly entered, of wild appearance, 
and insisted on a private interview with Jehu. They retired into a secret 
chamber. The youth uncovered a vial of sacred oil, poured it over Jehu’s 
head, and after announcing to him the message from Elisha, that he was 
appointed to be king of Israel and destroyer of the house of Ahab, rushed 
out of the house and disappeared. Jehu’s countenance, as he re-entered 
the assembly of officers, showed that some strange tidings had reached him. 
He tried at first to evade their questions, but then revealed the situation iu 
which he found himself placed by the prophetic call. In a momeut the en- 
thusiasm of the army took fire. They threw their garments under his feet, 
so as to form a rough carpet of state ; then blew the royal salute on their 
trumpets, and thus ordained him king. 2 Kings ix, 11-13. (2) Slays the 

Kings. Jehu accepted the kingdom, and immediately began to make it 
secure. He cut off ail communication between Ramoth-gilead and Jezreel, 
and set oft' at full speed with Bidkar, whom he had made captain of his 
host. Jehoram was there, (suffering from wounds received at the hands of 
the Syrians,) as well as Ahaziah, king of Judah, who had come to see him. 
When near the city the alarm was taken, and the two kings hastened out 
and met Jehu in the field of Naboth. In answer to the question of Jeho- 
ram, “Is it peace, Jehu ? ” the latter replied, “ What peace, so long as the 
whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel and her witchcrafts are so many ? ” 
Tnen lie drew his bow and smote Jehoram, while his followers pursued 
and mortally wounded Ahaziah. Jehu advanced to Jezreel and fulfilled the 
divine warning on Jezebel. 2 Kings ix, 14r-37. (3) Destroys House of 

Ahab. Jehu then sent a letter to the rulers, challenging them to set up 
one of the young princes as king, and fight out the matter. They replied 
that they were ready to submit to him ; whereupon he ordered them to ap- 
pear the next day with the heads of all the royal princes of Samaria, which 
they did. He explained that he must be regarded as tiie appointed minister 
of the divine decrees against the house of Ahab, and proceeded to slay all 
the officers of the late government who would most likely disturb his own 
reign. 2 Kings x, 1-1 1. Proceeding to Samaria, he met forty-two sons (or 
nephews^ of Ahaziah, and put them to the sword. 2 Kings x, 12-14; 


264 


JEHUBBAH — JEHUCAL. 


2 Chron. xxii, 8. (4) Destroys Baalites. On liis way to Samaria he met 

Jehonadab, the Rechabite, to whom he confided his purpose of exterminat- 
ing the Baalites. Arriving at Samaria, he announced that he was to be 
even more enthusiastic in the service of Baal than Ahab had been, and sum- 
moned them to come and sacrifice to that god. When they were assembled 
in the temple, clad in their sacerdotal garments, Jehu offered the chief sac- 
rifice, Jehonadab joining in the deception. At a concerted signal the 
eighty trusted guards fell upon and massacred the worshippers, arid thus at 
one blow exterminated the heathen population of Israel. The temple and 
image of Baal were demolished, and the sanctuary became a resort for the 
basest uses. 2 Kings x, 15-28. (5) Sin and Punishment. Jehu sinned 

against God in not overturning the golden calves worshiped in Beth-el and 
Dan. and thus continued in the sin of Jeroboam. For this it was foietold that 
his dynasty should only extend to four generations ; and the divine aid was 
withheld from him in his wars with the Syrians under Hazael. The war 
was disastrous to him, and a great part of his territories beyond the Jordan 
was held by the Syrians. He died in quiet, was buried in Samaria, and left 
the throne to his son Jehoahaz. 2 Kings x, 29-35. B. C. 856. His name 
is thought to be the first of the Israelitish kings which appear in ihe As- 
syrian monuments. It seems to be found on the black obelisk discovered at 
Nimrud, and now in the British Museum. 

3. Character. Jehu was a very positive and ambitious character; 
quick to decide upon a plan of action, and equally ready in execution. He 
was also prudent, calculating, and passionless. The narrative justifies us, 
we thiuk, in judging that his zeal for God was regulated very much by his 
zeal for Jehu. “ He must be regarded, like many others in history, as an 
instrument for accomplishing great purposes rather than as great or good 
in himself. In the long period during which his destiny, though known to 
others and perhaps to himself, lay dormant ; in the ruthlessness with which 
he carried out his purposes ; in the union of profound silence and dissimu- 
lation with a stern, fanatic, wayward zeal, he has not been without his like- 
nesses in modern times.” — Smith, Cyclopaedia , s. v. 

3. The son of Obed and father of Azariah, of the tribe of Judah. 
1 Chron. ii, 38. 

4. A Simeonite, son of Josibiah, and one of the chief Simeonites who 
moved into the valley of Gedor in search of pasturage during the reign of 
Hezekiah. They smote and dispossessed the original inhabitants. 1 Ciiron. 
iv. 35-41. B. C. about 713. 

5. An Antothite, one of the chief of the slingers of Benjamin, who joined 
David at Ziklag. I Chron. xii, 3. B. C. about 1058. 

JEHUB'BAH, (Heb. Yechubbah ', n3PI\ hidden ,) a man of Asher, son of 
Shamer, or Shomer, of the house of Beriah. 1 Chron. vii, 34. 

JEHU'CAL, (Heb. Yehukal ' , jo*n\ able,) the son of Shelemiah, and the 

person who was sent with Zephaniah by King Hezekiah to Jeremiah to 
request that he would pray to Jehovah in behalf of the kingdom. Jer. 
xxxvii, 3. He afterward joined with his associates in requesting the death 
of the prophet because of his unfavorable response, (chap, xxxviii, 4.) in 
which verse he is styled one of “ the princes.” In chap, xxxviii, 1 hia 
name is given in the abbreviated form Jucal. 


JEHUDI — JE KAMI AH. 


265 


JEHU'DI, (Heb. Yehudi', * Tew,) the son of Nethaniah, employed by 

the princes of Jelioiakim’s court to bring Baruch to read Jeremiah’s denun- 
ciation, (Jer. xxxvi, 14,) and then by the king to fetch the volume itself and 
read it to him. Yers. 21, 23. B. C. 606. 

JEHUDI' JAH, (Heb. Yehudiyah ', n s *Tin\ Jewess , not a proper name, 

although so given in the Authorized Version.) the wife (probably) of Mered. 
1 Chron. iv, 18. B. C. after 1491. The following re-adjustment of the text 
is proposed to clear away its obscurity: “These are the sons of Bithiahthe 
daughter of Pharaoh, which Mered took, and she bare Miriam, etc., and his 
wife Jehudijah bare Jered,” etc. (Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown, Commen- 
tary, in loco.) She is probably the same with Uodiah in ver. 19. 

JE'HUSH, (Heb. Yeiish ,' assembler,) son of Eshek, a remote de- 
scendant of Saul. 1 Chron. viii, 39. B. C. after 1000. 

JEI'EL, (Heb. YtieV, 'V s , treasure of God , Gesenius ; snatched away 
by God.) 

1. A Reubenite of the house of Joel at the time of the taking of some 
census, apparently on the deportation of the trans-Jordanic tribes by Til- 
gatli-pilnezer. 1 Chron. v, 7. B. C. about 740. 

2. A Merarite Levite appointed by David to assist in the removal of the 
ark to Jerusalem. 1 Ghron. xvi, 5. He is probably the same as the one 
mentioned in the same verse as performer on “ psalteries and harps,” and 
identical with the “ porter ” (chap, xv, 18) and musician, Chap, xv, 2 1. B. C. 
about 1042. 

3. A Levite, and great-grandfather of Jehaziel, who predicted success to 
Jehoshaphat against the Ammonites and Moabites. 2 Chron. xx, 14, B. C. 
considerably before 890. 

4. The Scribe who, with others, kept the account of the numbers of King 
Uzziah’s troops. 2 Chron. xxvi, 11. B. C. 810. 

5. A Levite of the sons of Elizaphan, who assisted in the restoration of 
the temple under King Hezekiah. 1 Chron. xxix, 13. B. C. 726. 

6. One of the chief Levites in the time of Josiah, who assisted in the 
rites of the great Passover. 2 Chron. xxxv, 9. B. C. 623. 

7. One of the “ last sons ” of Adonikam, who, with 60 males, formed part 
of the caravan of Ezra from Babylon to Jerusalem. Ezra viii, 13. B. C. 
about 457. 

8. An Israelite of the “sons” of Nebo, who had taken a foreign wife and 
had to relinquish her. Ezra x, 43. B. C. 457. 

JEKAME'AM, (Heb. Yekamam ', DyO£\ gathered of the people ,) a Le- 
vite, the fourth in rank of the “ sons ” of Hebron in the Levitical arrange- 
ment established by David. 1 Chron. xxiii, 19; xxiv, 23. B. C. 1015. 

JEKAMTAH, (Heb. Yekamyah', lYE^N gathered by Jehovah .) 

1. The son of Shallum and father of Elishama, of the descendants of 
Sheshan of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 41. B. C. probably about 588. 

2. In Authorized Version “ Jecamiah.” The fifth-named of the sons of 
King Jeconiah, (1 Chron. iii,18,)born to him during the captivity. B. C. 
after 599. 


266 


JEKUTIIIEL — JEPHTIIAH. 


JEKU'THIEL, (Heb. Yekuthiel', ^XTl 5 p\ reverence for God , piety.) a 

man recorded in the genealogies of Judah (l Chron. iv, 18) as the son of 
Mered by his Jewish wife, (Authorized Version, Jelmdijah,) and in his turn 
the father, or founder, of the town of Zanoah. 

JEMI'MA, (Heb. Yemimah', ntSND?» dove) the name of the first of the 
three daughters born to Job after his restoration to prosperity. Job xlii, 14. 

JEMU'EIi, (Heb. YemueV , ^10', day of God) the eldest son of Simeon, 

(Gen. xlvi, 10; Exod. vi, 15;) elsewhere (Num. xxvi, 12) called Nemuel. 
B. C. before 1706. 

JEPH'THAE, the Greek form (Heb. xi, 32) of Jephthah, (q. v.) 

JEPH'THAH, (Heb. Yiphtach ', nniD\ opener) the ninth judge of Israel. 

1. Family. Jephthah was the illegitimate son of Gilead, and belonged 
to Manasseh east. 

2. Personal History. (1) A Freebooter. In consequence of his 

illegitimacy he was banished from his father’s house and took up his 
residence at Tob, a district of Syria not far from Gilead. Judg. xi, 1-3. 
Here it is that he became head of a marauding party, and when a war 
broke out between the Israelites and the Ammonites he probably signalized 
himself. (2) Leader of Israel. This induced the Israelites to seek his aid 
as commander ; and though at first he refused, in consequence of their ill- 
treatment of him, yet, on their solemn covenant to regard him as their 
leader, he consented. In this capacity he was successful, and, in a war 
which soon followed, the Ammonites were defeated with great loss. Chap, 
xi, 3-33. (3) Jephthah’s Vow. On the eve of the battle he made a vow 

(chap, xi, 30, 31) that whatever should come forth from his house first to 
meet him on his return home he would devote to God. This turned out to 
be his daughter, an only child, who welcomed his return with music and 
dancing. See Difficulties. (4) Quarrel with Ephraimites. His victory 
over the Ammonites was followed by a quarrel with the Ephraimites, who 
challenged his right to go to war without their consent, and used threat- 
ening language toward him. Jephthah remonstrated with them, and then, 
gathering his forces, gave the Ephraimites battle, defeating them with great 
loss. The Gileadites then seized the fords of Jordan, and made those at- 
tempting to cross pronounce the word “ Shibboleth ; ” but if he pronounced 
it “ Sibboleth,” they knew him to be an Ephraimite, and slew him on 
the spot. Judg. xii, 1-6. (5) Rule and Death. The remainder of Jeph- 

thah’s rule seems to have been peaceful, lasting about six years. B. C. 
about 1143-1137. He was buried in his native region, in one of the cities 
of Gilead. Judg. xii, 7. 

3. Character. Jephthah appears to have been a daring, intrepid man, 
skilled in war, quick to avenge injuries, and ready to defend the helpless as 
well as to forgive wrong. He does not seem to have been rash and impet- 
uous, notwithstanding his vow, for he did not take to the sword at once, 
but waited until negotiations with the king of the Ammonites had been 
without effect. 

Difficulties.— “ Volumes have been written on what is generally termed 
* Jephthah’s rash vow : ’ the question is whether, in doing to his daughter accord- 


JEPHUNNEH — JERAHMEEL. 


267 


in" to Ills vow, he actually offered her in sacrifice or not. That he really did so is 
a horrible conclusion, but one that it seems impossible to avoid. The'following 
may be taken as a summary of the arguments on both sides. On the part of 
those who maintain that an actual sacrifice took place there are urged, 1. The ex- 
press terms of the narrative, ‘ I will offer it up for a burnt-offering,’ and ‘ he did 
according to his vow.’ 2. The fact that Jephthah was half a heathen, and that 
the circumstances took place where the heathen dwelt in great numbers, and 
where human sacrifices were not unknown. 3. That Jephthah’s excessive grief 
on seeing his daughter come forth to meet him can only be accounted for on the 
supposition that he considered her devoted to death. 4. That the mourning for Jeph- 
thah’s daughter for four days in the year can be reconciled only with the supposition 
that she was an actual sacrifice. 5. That there is nothing in the history to show 
that his conduct was sanctioned by God. On the part of those who maintain the 
negative it is urged that, 1. By translating the Hebrew prefix, (which is rendered 
and in our version,) or, all difficulty will be removed. His words would then 
read, ‘ shall surely be the Lord’s, or I will offer a burnt-offering ; ’ and not unfre- 
queutly the sense requires that the Hebrew should be thus rendered. See Lev. 
xxvii, 28, where there is a similar meaning of the conjunctive vau. 2. He can- 
not be understood as declaring an intention to offer as a burnt-offering whatever 
might come forth to meet him, since he might have been met by what no law or 
custom permitted to be so offered. 3. The sacrifice of children to Moloch is ex- 
pressly forbidden, and declared an abomination to the Lord, (Lev. xx, 2, 3 ;) and it 
would be a yet higher insult to offer them to the Lord. 4. There is no precedent 
for such an offering. 5. No father by his own authority could put even an offending 
child to death, much less one that was innocent. Deut. xxi, 18-21 ; 1 Sam. xiv, 
24-45. 6. It is said he did to her 1 according to his vow,’ and 1 she knew no man,’ 
which conveys the idea that she was devoted to a life of celibacy ; and that what 
the daughters of Israel bewailed was not her death, but her celibacy. Judg. xi, 
38-40. There appears to have been a class of women devoted exclusively to the 
temple-service, who were Nazarites. See Exod. xxxviii, 8 : the word rendered 
assembled means engaged in service. To this company of females reference is 
made 1 Sam. ii, 22. See also Luke ii, 37. To such a company of devoted women 
Jephthah’s daughter might be set apart. One of the strongest points on this side 
of the argument is, that the Hebrew word lethanoth, rendered to bewail , rather 
meant to celebrate; these daughters of Israel went yearly, not to lament, but 
with songs of praise to celebrate, the daughter of Jephthah.”— Farrar’s Bib . 
Dictionary , s. v. The prominence given to the daughter’s virginity, as an argu- 
ment against Jephthah’s sacrifice, we think is hardly warranted. It is probably 
mentioned to give greater force to the sacrifice, as it would leave him without is- 
sue, which in the East was considered a special misfortune. (See M’Clintock and 
Strong’s Cyclopcedia ; Smith, Dictionary, s. v .) 

JEPHUN'NEH, (Heb. Yephunneh H3D', nimble.) 

v % : 

1. The father of Caleb, which latter was a faithful explorer of Canaan 
with Joshua. Nurn. xiii, 6; xiv, 6, 30, 38; xxvi, 65 ; xxxii, 12; xxxiv, 19; 
Deut. i, 36 ; Josh, xiv, 6, 13, 14 ; xv, 13 ; xxi, 12 ; 1 Chron. iv, 15 ; vi, 56. 
B. 0. before 1490. 

2. One of the sons of Jether, of the descendants of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 
38. B. C. probably before 1017. 

JE'RAH, (Heb. Yerach flT, month,) the fourth son of Joktan. Gen. x, 
26 ; 1 Chron. i, 20. B. C. 2247. 

JERAHMEEL, (Heb. Yerachmeel', f>JKErn\ beloved of God.) 

1. The first born son of Hezron, the son of Pharez, the son of Judah. 
1 Chron. ii, 9, 25-27, 33, 42. B. C. probably about 1700. 

2. A Merarite Levite, the representative of the family of Kish, probably 
the son of Mahli. 1 Chron. xxiv, 29; compare xxiii, 21. B. C. about 1015. 

3. Son of Hammelech, who was employed by Jehoiakim to make Jere- 
miah and Baruch prisoners, after he had burnt the roll of Jeremiah’s 
prophecy. Jer. xxxvi, 26. B. C. 606. 


268 


JERElT — JEREMIAH. 


JE'RED, (Heb. Ye'red, TT, descender.) 

1. One of the patriarchs before the flood, (1 Chron. i, 2 ;) the name, in 
Gen. v, 15-20, is given as Jared, (q. v.) 

2. A son, apparently, of Ezra, of the tribe of Judah, by his wife Jehu- 
dijah, (q. v.) He is named as the father (founder) of Gedor. 1 Chron. iv, 
18. B. C. perhaps 1612. 

JER'EMAI, (Heb. Yeremay ', dweller on heights ,) one of the “ sons ” 

of Hashum, who divorced his wife after the return from Babylon. Ezra x, 
33. B. C. 457. 

JEREMIAH, (Heb. Yirmeyah ', JTJDT, raised up by Jehovah.) 

1. An inhabitant of Libnah, the father of Hamutal, wife of Josiah and 
mother of Jehoahaz and Zedekiah. 2 Kings xxiii, 31 ; xxiv, 18; Jer. lii, 1. 
B. C. 633. 

2. One of the chief men of the tribe of Manasseh east, apparently about 
the time of their deportation by the Assyrians. 1 Chron. v, 24. B. C. about 
771. 

3. Oue of the Benjamite warriors who joined David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. 
xii. 4. B. C. about 1058. 

4. 5. The fifth and tenth in rank of the Gadite adventurers who joined 
David’s troops in the wilderness. 1 Chron. xii, 10, 13. B. C. about 1058. 

6. One of the priests who subscribed the sacred covenant along with 
Nehemiah, (Neh. x, 2 ;) probably the same with one of those who followed 
the princes in the circuit of the newly repaired walls with the sound of 
trumpets. Chap, xii, 34. B. C. 445. 

7. A priest who accompanied Zerubbabel from Babylon to Jerusalem. 
Nell, xii, 1. It is probably himself or his course that is mentioned in ver. 
12. B. C. 536. 

8. The son of Habazaniah and father of Jaazaniah, which last was one 
of the Rechabites whom the prophets tested with the offer of wine. Jer. 
xxxv, 3. B. C. before 607. 

9. The second of the greater prophets of the Old Testament. 

1. Family. Jeremiah was the son of Hilkiah, a priest of Anathoth, in 
the' land of Benjamin. Jer. i, 1, Many writers, both ancient and modern, 
have supposed that his father was the Hilkiah mentioned in 2 Kings xxii, 8. 
Against this hypothesis, however, there have been urged (Keil, Ew'ald, and 
others) the facts, 1. That the name is too common to be a ground of iden- 
tification. 2. That the manner in which Hilkiah is mentioned is inconsist- 
ent with the notion of his having been the high-priest of Israel. 3. That 
neither Jeremiah himself nor his opponents allude to himself. 4. That the 
priests who lived at Anathoth were of the house of Ithamar, (1 Kings ii, 26,) 
while the high-priests, from Zadok down, were of the line of Eleazar. 

2. History. (1) Early Life. The word of the Lord came to Jeremiah 
while he was still very young, (Jer. i, 6,) and happened in the thirteenth 
year of the reign of King Josiah, (B. C. 628,) while the prophet still lived 
in Anathoth. He appears to have remained in his native city until he was 
obliged to leave in order to escape the persecution of his fellow-townsmen, 
(Jer. xi, 21,) and even of his own family. Chap, xii, 6. He then took up 
his residence at Jerusalem. (2) Under Josiah. He probably assisted 
King Josiah in the reformation effected during his reign. 2 Kings xxiii, 1, sq. 


JEREMIAH. 


269 


B. C. G24. The movement in behalf of true religion ceased as soon as 
the influence of the court was withdrawn; and the prophet bewailed the 
death of this prince as the precursor of the divine judgments for the 
national sins. 2 Chron. xxxv, 25. (3) Under Jehoahaz. The short reign of 

this king gave little scope for prophetic action, and we hear nothing of 
Jeremiah duriug this period. (4) Under Jehoiakim. The king had come 
to the throne as the vassal of Egypt, and for a time the Egyptian party 
was dominant in Jerusalem. Jeremiah appeared as the chief representative 
of the party that favored the supremacy of the Chaldeans as the only way 
of safety. In so doing he had to expose himself to the suspicion of treach- 
ery, and was interrupted in his ministry by “the priests and prophets,” 
who, with the populace, brought him before the civil authorities, urging that 
capital punishment should be inflicted on him for his threatenings. Jer. 
xxvi. The princes of Judah endeavored to protect him, and appealed to 
the precedent of Micah the Morasthite, who had uttered a like prophecy in 
the reign of Hezekiah ; and so for a time he escaped. Aliikam, the son of 
Shaphan, seems to have had influence to secure the prophet’s safety. In 
the fourth year of Jehoiakim he was commanded to write the predictions 
which had been given him. Probably as a measure of safety he was, as he 
says, “shut up,” and could not himself go to the house of the Lord. He 
therefore deputed Baruch to write the predictions and to read them publicly 
on the fast-day. Baruch was summoned before the princes, who advised 
that botn he and Jeremiah should conceal themselves, while they endeavored 
to influence the mind of the king by readiug the roll to them. Jehoiakim 
read three or four leaves and then destroyed the roll. He gave orders for 
the immediate arrest of Baruch and Jeremiah, who, however, were preserved 
from the angry king. The prophet, at the command of God, rewrote the 
roll, adding “ besides unto them many like words.” Jer. xxxvi, 32. To this 
period is assigned the prophecy in the valley of Ben-Hinnom, (Jer. xix.) and 
liis ill-treatment at the hand of Pashur, (q. v.) (5) Under Jehoiachin. 

We still find Jeremiah uttering his voice of warniug during the closing 
days of the reign of Jehoiakim and the short reign of his successor, Jehoi- 
aciiiu. See chap, xiii, 18; compare 2 Kings xxiv, 12; Jer. xxii, 24—30. 
He sent a letter of counsel and condolence to those who shared the captiv- 
ity of the royal family. Chaps, xxix-xxxi. B. C. 599. (6) Under Zede- 

kiah. In the fourth year of this monarch’s reign Hananiah prophesied that 
the power of the Chaldeans would be destroyed and the captives restored to 
Babylon, (chap, xxviii, 3 ;) and corroborated his prophecy by taking oft from 
the neck of Jeremiah the yoke which he wore by divine command. Chap, 
xxvii, 2. Jeremiah was told to “ Go and tell Hananiah, saying, Thus saith 
the Lord; Thou hast broken the yokes of wood; but thou shalt make for 
them yokes of iron. For thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel ; 
I have put a yoke of iron upon the neck of all these nations, that they may 
serve Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon.” Cnap. xxviii, 13, 14. It was 
probably not until the latter part of the reign of Zedekiah that the prophet 
was put in confinement, as we find that “ they had not put him into pri.-on ” 
when the army of Nebuchadnezzar commenced the siege of Jerusalem. 
Chap, xxxvii, 4, 5. B. C. 590. Jeremiah had declared what would be the 
fatal issue, (chap, xxiv,) and was incarcerated in the court of the prison ad- 
joining the palace, where lie predicted the certain return from the impending 
captivity. Chap, xxxii, 37. The approach of the Egyptian army, and the 


270 


JEREMIAS— JEREMOTH. 


consequent withdrawal, for a time, of the Chaldeans, brightened the pros- 
pects of the Jews, and the king intreated Jeremiah to pray to the Lord for 
them. The answer received from God was that the Egyptians would go to 
their own land, and that the Chaldeans would return and destroy the city. 
Chap, xxxvii, 7, 8. This irritated the princes, wdio made the departure of 
Jeremiah from the city the pretext of accusing him of deserting io the 
Chaldeans. He was cast into prison in spite of his denial, where he would, 
doubtless have perished but for the interposition of Ebed-melech, one of the 
royal eunuchs. Chap, xxxvii, 12-xxxviii, 13. The king seems to have been 
favorably inclined toward the prophet, but, for fear of the prince, consulted 
with him secretly. Chap, xxxviii, 14-28. While in prison he bought, with 
all requisite formalities, the field at Anathotli, which his kinsman Hana* 
meel wished to get rid of, (c]iap. xxxii, 6-9,) thus showing his faith in his 
country’s future. (7) Under Nebuchadnezzar. Nebuchadnezzar took the 
city, (B. C. 588,) and gave a special charge to his captain, Nebuzaradan, to 
free Jeremiah and to follow his advice. Chap, xxxix, 11, 12. He was, ac- 
cordingly, delivered from the prison, and the choice given him either to go 
to Babylon or remain with his own people. He chose the latter, and went 
to Mizpah with Gedaliah, who had been appointed governor of Judea. 
After the murder of Gedaliah he advised Johanan, the recognized leader of 
the people, to remain in the land. Chap, xlii, 7, sq. The people refused to 
heed his advice, under the plea that he was acting in the interest of the 
Chaldeans, removed to Egypt, and took Jeremiah and Baruch with them. 
Chap, xliii, 6. While there he still sought to turn the people to the Lord, 
who had so long rebelled against him. Jer. xliv. His writings give us no 
further information respecting his life. (8) Traditions. There is a Chris- 
tian tradition that Jeremiah was stoned to death by the Jews at Tahpanhes. 
An Alexandrian tradition reported that his bones had been brought to that 
city by Alexander the Great. On the other hand, there is the Jewish state- 
ment that, on the conquest of Egypt by Nebuchadnezzar, he, with Baruch, 
made his escape to Babylon, and died there in peace. 

3. Character. “ In every page of Jeremiah’s prophecies we recognize 
the temperament which, while it does not lead the man who has it to shrink 
from doing God’s work, however painful, makes the pain of doing it infi- 
nitely more acute, and gives to the whole character the impress of a deeper 
and more lasting melancholy. He is pre-eminently ‘ the man that hath seen 
afflictions.’ Lam. iii, 1.” — Smith, s. v.; Kitto, s. v.; M’Clintoek and Strong. 

JEREMTAS, a Grecized form of the name Jeremiah the prophet. 
Matt, xvi, 14. 

JER'EMOTH, (Heb. Yereymoth ', heights.) 

1. A Benjamite chief, a son of the house of Beriah of Elpaal. 1 Chron. 
viii, 14 ; compare 12 and 18. His family dwelt at Jerusalem. B. C. appar- 
ently about 588. 

2. A Merarite Levite, son of Mushi, (1 Chron. xxiii, 23,) called Jerimoth 
in 1 Chron. xxiv, 30. B. C. after 1689. 

3. Son of Heman, head of the thirteenth course of musicians in the 
divine service, (1 Chron. xxv, 22 ;) probably the same called Jerimoth in 
ver. 4. B. C. about 1015. 

4. One of the “ sons of Elam ” who put away his strange wife after the 
captivity. Ezra x, 26. B. C. 456. 


JEREMY — JERIOTH. 271 

5. One of the “ sons of Zattu ” who had taken strange wives, and put 
them away after the return from Babylon. Ezra x, 27. B. 0. 456. 

6. The name which appears in the same list as “ and Ramoth .” Yer. 29. 
See Ramoth. 

JER'EMY, a familiar form of the name Jeremiah. Matt, ii, 17 ; xxvii, 9. 
JERFAH, (Heb. Yeriyah', n s "i\ founded by , or fearer of Jehovah ,) a 

Kohathite Levite, chief of the great house of Hebron when David organ- 
ized the Levitical service. I Chron. xxiii, 19; xxiv, 23. B. 0. 1015. His 
name is given as Jerijah in 1 Chron. xxvi, 31. 

JER'IBAI, (Heb. Yeribay', 'ITT, contentious, perhaps whom Jehovah de- 
fends ,) the second-named of the sons of Elnaam, and one of David’s body- 
guard. 1 Chron. xi, 46. B. C. 1047. 

JER'IEL, (Heb. YerieV, founded by God,) a man of Issachar, one 

of the six heads of the house of Tola mentioned in the census in the time of 
David. 1 Chron. vii, 2. B. C. perhaps about 1444. 

JERFJAH, a different form (1 Chron. xxvi, 31) of the name Jeriah, (q. v.) 
JER'IMOTH, (Heb. Yerimoth', fliD'T, heights.) 

1. The fourth-named of the four sons of Bela, son of Benjamin and 
founder of a Benjamite house which existed in the time of David. 1 Chron. 
vii, 7 ; compare ver. 2. B. C. after 1689. 

2. One of the “sons” of Becher, (1 Chron. vii, 8,) and head of another 
Benjamite house. B. C. about 1017. 

3. One of the Benjamite archers and slingers that joined David at Zik- 
lag. 1 Chron. xii, 5. B. C. 1058. 

4. The last-named of the sons of Mushi, the son of Merari, (1 Chron. xxiv, 
30 ;) elsewhere called Jeremoth. 

5. One of the sons of Heman, head of the fifteenth ward of musicians, 
(1 Chron. xxv, 4. 22 ;) called in the latter verse Jeremoth. B. C. about 1015. 

6. Sou of Azriel, ruler of the tribe of NaphtaJi in the reign of David. 
1 Chron. xxvii, 19. B. C. about 1015. 

7. Son of King David, whose daughter Mahalath was the first wife of 
Rehoboam, her cousin Abihail being the other. 2 Chron. xi, 18. B. C. be- 
fore 974. He is not named in the list of David’s children, (1 Chron iii or 
xiv, 4-7,) and it is probable that he was the son of a concubine, and such 
is the Jewish tradition. The passage 2 Chron. xi, 18, is not quite clear, since 
the word “daughter” is a correction of the Keri: the original text had 
pi, that is, “ son.” (Smith, s. v.) 

8. A Levite, and one of the overseers of the temple offerings in the reign 
of Hezekiah. 2 Chron. xxxi, 13. B. C. 726. 

JERFOTH, (Heb. Yerioth ', nilTV, curtains , or timidity,) apparently the 

second wife of Caleb, the son of Hezron. 1 Chron. ii. 18. B. C. about 1471. 
The Vulgate renders this as the son of Caleb by his first-mentioned wife, 
and father of the sons named ; but this is contrary to the Hebrew text, 
which is closely followed by the Septuagint. Perhaps the connective l 

should be rendered by even, thus making Jerioth but another name for 
Azubah. 


272 


JEROBOAM. 


JEROBO'AM, (Heb. Yarobam', DJDT, increase of people.) 

1. The first king of Israel. T 5 TT 

1. Family. Jeroboam was the son of Nebat, an Ephraimite, by a woman 
named Zeruah. 1 Kings xi, 26. 

2. Personal History. (1) Noticed by Solomon. At the time when 

Solomon was constructing the fortifications of Millo underneath the citadel 
of Zion, his sagacious eye discovered the strength and activity of the young 
Ephraimite who was employed on the works, and he raised him to the rank 
of superintendent over the taxes and labors exacted from the tribe of 
Ephraim. 1 Kings xi, 28. B. C. about 984. (2) Future Foretold. On one 

occasion, when leaving Jerusalem, he encountered Aliijah, “ the prophet” of 
the ancient sanctuar 3 r of Shiloh. Aliijali stripped off his new outer garment 
and tore it into twelve shreds, ten of which he gave to Jeroboam. with the 
assurance that, on condition of his obedience to His laws, God' would estab- 
lish for him a kingdom and dynasty equal to that of David. 1. Kings xi, 29- 
JO. B. C. about 980. (3) Flight into Egypt. Jeroboam, probably, began 

to form plots and conspiracies, for Solomon sought to take his life, where- 
upon he fled to Egypt. He received the protection of King Shisl ak. and 
remained there until the death of Solomon. 1 Kings xi, 40. B. C. 975. 
(1) Revolt of Israel. Upon the accession of Relioboam Jeioboam appears 
to have headed a deputation who asked for a redress of grievances. The 
harsh answer of Relioboam rendered a revolution inevitable, and Jeroboam 
was called to be “king of Israel.” 1 Kings xii, 1-20. (5) As King. The 

policy of Jeroboam was to bring about a religious as well as political dis- 
ruption of the kingdom. He therefore sought to discourage the yearly 
pilgrimages to the temple at Jerusalem. To this end he established shrines 
at Dan and Bethel, sanctuaries of venerable antiquity, and at the extremities 
of the kingdom. He set up “golden calves ” as symbols of Jehovah, and 
united the pontificate to his crown. 1 Kings xii, 26-33. While officiating at 
the altar a man of God appeared and announced the coming of King Josiah, 
who should burn upon that altar the bones of its ministers. Jeroboam at- 
tempted to arrest him. when the arm that he stretched forth was smitten 
with palsy, but in answer to his prayer was healed. 1 Kings xiii, 1-1 0. Jero- 
boam continued his idolatrous practices, making “the lowest of the people 
priests of the high places,” (1 Kings xiii, 33,) and his contumacy soon brought 
about the extinction of his dynasty. His son Abijah fell sick, and Jeroboam 
sent his wife in disguise to the prophet Aliijah, who, however, recognized her 
and predicted her son’s death. She returned to Tirzah, “and when she came 
to the threshold of the door the child died.” Jeroboam seems never to have 
recovered from the blow, and died soon after, having reigned twenty two 

, years. -1 Kings xiv, 1-20. B. C. 975-954. Jeroboam waged constant war 
with the house of Judah, but the only act distinctly recorded is a battle with 
Abijah, the sou of Relioboam, in which he was defeated, and for the t me 
lost the important ciiies of Bethel, Jeshanah, and Ephraim. 2 Chron. xiii, 1-19. 

3. Character. “Jeroboam was perhaps a less remarkable man than 
the circumstance of his being the founder of a new kingdom might lead us to 
expect. His government exhibits but one idea — that of raising a barrier 
against the re-union of the tribes. Of that idea he was the slave and victim ; 
and although the barrier which he raised was effectual for its purpose, it 
Only served to show the weakness of the man who could deem needful ilia 
protecticn for his separate interests which such a barrier, offered.” 


JEROIIAM— JERUBBESHETH. 


273 


/• 


2. Jeroboam IT. was the son and successor of Jehoash, and the four- 
teenth king of Israel. Notwithstanding he followed the example of the first 
Jeroboam in keeping up the idolatry of the golden calves, the Lord had pity 
upon Israel. Jeroboam brought to a successful issue the wars which his 
father had undertaken, and delivered Israel from the Syrian yoke. Compare 
2 Kings xiii, 4 ; xiv, 26, 27. He took the chief cities of Damascus (2 Kings 
xiv, 28 ; Amos i, 3-5) and Hamath, and restored to Israel the ancient east- 
ern limits from Lebanon to the Dead Sea. 2 Kings xiv, 25 ; Amos vi. 14. 
He reconquered Ammon and Moab, (Amos i. 13; ii, 1-3,) restored to the 
trans-Jordanic tribes their territory. 2 Kings xiii, 5 ; 1 Chron. v, 17-22. But it 
was merely an outward restoration. The sanctuary at Bethel was kept up 
in royal state, (Amos vii, 13,) but drunkenness, licentiousness, and oppres- 
sion prevailed in the country, (Amos ii, 6-8; iv, 1; vi, 6; Hos. iv, 12-14; 
i, 2,) and idolatry was united with the worship of Jehovah. Hos. iv, 13; 
xiii, 6. Amos prophesied the destruction of Jeroboam and his house by 
the sword, (Amos vii, 9, 17,) and Hosea (Hos. i, 1) also denounced the 
crimes of the nation. 

Difficulty.— Some regard the prophecy .of Amos, that Jeroboam should die by 
the sword, a failure, “ as there is no evidence that his death was other than natu- 
ral, for he was buried with his ancestors in state. 2 Kings xiv, 29. The interreg- 
num of eleven years which intervened before the accession of his son Zechariah 
(2 Kings xiv, 29 ; compare with xv, 8) argues some political disorder at the time of 
his death. But the probability rather is that the high-priest, who displayed the 
true spirit of a persecutor, gave an unduly speciflcand offensive turn to the words 
of Amos, in order to inflame Jeroboam the more against him.”— M’Clintock and 
Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v. 

JERO'HAM, (Heb. Yerocham', Qrh\ beloved .) 

1. The son of Elihu and father of Elkanah, the father of Samuel. 1 Sara, 
i, 1 ; 1 Chron. vi, 27, 34. B. C. before 1171. 

2. The father of several Benjamite chiefs residing at Jerusalem. 1 Chron. 
viii, 27. B. C. before 536. 

3. The father of Ibneiah, a Benjamite chief resident at Jerusalem. 

1 Chron. ix, 8. B. C. probably before 536. Perhaps the same as No. 2. 

4. A priest whose son Adaiah was one of the priests residing at Jerusa- 
lem. 1 Chron. ix, 12. The same names are given as father and son iu 
Neh. xi, 12. They are probably identical. B. C. before 536. 

5. An inhabitant of G-edor, and father of Joelah and Zebadial), who 
joined David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 7. B. C. before 1058. 

6. A Danite whose son (or descendant) Azareel was ruler over his tribe 
in the time of David. 1 Chron. xxvii, 22. B. C. before 1015. 

7. Father of Azariah, which latter was one of the “captains of hun- 
dreds” by whose assistance Jehoiada placed Joash ou the throne of Judah. 

2 Chron. xxiii, 1. B. C. before 878. 

JERUB'BAAL, or JERUBBA'AL, (Heb. Yerubba'al, f>yaT, with 

whom Baal contends,) a surname given by his father to Gideon, the judge of 
Israel, because he destroyed the altar of Baal. Judg. vi, 32; vii, 1 ; viii, 29, 
35 ; ix, 1, 2, 5, 16, 19, 24, 28, 57 ; 1 Sam. xii, 11. 

JERUB'BE SHETH, (Heb. Yerubbe'sheth, n£'3V, contender with the 

shame , that is , idol,) a name of Gideon, (2 Sam. xi, 21,) given, probably, to 
avoid pronouncing the name (Exod. xxxiii, 13) of a false god, (namely, Baal.) 


274 


JERITSHA — JESHUA. 


JERU'SHA, (Heb. Yerusha', possession ,) the daughter of Zadok 

and queen of Uzziah. She was the mother of Jotham, king of Judah. 
2 Kings xv, 33. B. C. 783. See Jerushah. 

JERU'SHAH, (Heb. Yerushah nt£*f|\ another form (2 Cliron. xxviii) 
of the name Jerusha, (q. v.) T : 

JESAFAH, or JESAFAH, (1 Cliron. iii, 21 ; Neh. xi, 7,) another form 
of Jeshaiah, (q. v.) 

JESHAFAH, or JESHAFAH, (Heb. Yeshayah', Jehovah saves.) 

1. The second-named of the sons of Hananiah, the son of Zerubbabel. 
1 Chron. iii, 21. B. C. after 536. 

2. One of the sons of Jeduthun, appointed as a sacred harper (1 Chron. 

xxv, 3) at the head of the eighth division of Levitical musicians. Yer. 15. 
B. C. 1015. 

3. The son of Rehabiah, of the Levitical family of Eliezer. His descend- 
ant Shelomith was over the sacred treasury in the time of David. 1 Chron. 

xxvi, 25 ; compare xxiv, 21, where he is called Isshiah. B. C. considerably 
before 1015. 

4. Son of Athaliah, and chief of the family of Elam. He returned from 
Babylon with 70 males. Ezra viii, 7. B. C. about 457. 

5. A Levite of the family of Merari, who, in company with Hashabiah, 
met Ezra at Ahava on the way from Babylon to Palestine. Ezra viii, 19. 
B. C. about 457. 

6. Father of Ithiel, a Benjamite whose descendant, Sallu, resided in Jeru- 
salem after the exile. Nell, xi, 7. B C. before 445. 

JESHAR'ELAH, or JE SHARE 'LAH, (Heb. Yeshare'lah, 

upright toward God,) head of the seventh division of the Levitical musicians. 
1 Chron. xxv, 14. He was a son of Asaph, and his name is given (ver. 2) 
as Asarelaft. 

JESHEB'EAB, (Heb. YeshebaV , father's seat,) the head of the 

fourteenth course of priests as arranged by David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 13. B. C, 
1015. 

JE'SHER, (Heb. Ye'sher, uprightness ,) one of the sons of Caleb, the 

son of Hezron, by his wife Azubah. 1 Chron. ii, 18. B. C. about 1471. 
JESH'ISHAI, (Heb. Yeshishay ', grayish , or son of an old man,) 

the son of Jahdo and father of Michael, one of the ancestors of the G-adites 
who dwelt in Gilead. 1 Chron. v, 14. B. C. long before 740. 

JESHOHAFAH, (Heb. Yeshochayah iTnitJfy bowed down by, or wor- 
shiper of, Jehovah ,) a chief of the Simeonites, and one of those who emigrated 
to Gedor. 1 Chron. iv, 36. B. C. about 715. 

JESH'UA, (Heb. Yeshu'a, Jehovah helps.) 

1. A priest in the reign of David, to whom the ninth course fell by lot. 
1 Chron. xxiv, 11, (in which passage it is Anglicized Jeshuah.) B. C. about 
1015. Perhaps the same with the one mentioned in Ezra ii, 36; Neh. vii, 
39, whose descendants returned from Babylon. 


JESHUAH— JESSE. 275 

2. A Levite appointed by Hezekiah, with others, to distribute the sacred 
offerings among their brethren. 2 Chron. xxxi, 15. B. C. 726. 

3. Son of Jehozadak, first high-priest of the third series, namely, of those 
after the Babylonish captivity, and ancestor of the fourteen high-priests his 
successors down to Joshua or Jason, and Onias or Menelaus, inclusive. 
Jeshua, like his contemporary Zerubbabel, was probably born in Babylon, 
whither his father Jehozadak had been taken captive while young. 1 Chron. 
vi, 15, Authorized Version. He came up from Babylon in the first year of 
Cyrus with Zerubbabel, (Ezra ii, 2 ; Neh. vii, 7 ; xii, 1, 7, 10,) and took a 
leading part with him in the rebuilding of the temple and the restoration 
of the Jewish commonwealth. Ezra iii, 2, 8, 9 ; iv, 3 ; v, 2. B. C. 536-446. 
Besides the great importance of Jeshua as a historical character, from the 
critical times in which he lived, and the great work which he accomplished, 
his name Jesus, his restoration of the temple, his office as high-priest, and 
especially the two prophecies concerning him in Zech. iii and vi, 9-15, 
point him out as an eminent type of Christ. (Smith, s. v .) He is called 
Joshua in Hag. i, 1, 12 ; ii, 2, 4 ; Zech. iii, 1, 3, 6, 8, 9. 

4. A descendant (or native) of Pahath-moab, mentioned with Joab as one 
whose posterity, numbering 2,812, (Ezra ii, 6,) or 2,818, (Neh. vii, 11,) re- 
turned from Babylon. B. C. before 536. 

5. A Levite named along with Kadmiel as one whose descendants, 
(“ children of Hoderah,”) to the number of 74, returned from Babylon. 
Ezra ii, 40 ; Neh. vii, 43. B. C. before 436. 

6. The father of Jozabad, which latter was appointed by Ezra one of the 
receivers of the offering for the sacred service. Ezra viii, 33. B. C. about 
457. 

7. A Jew whose son Ezer repaired the part of the wall (“over against 
the going up to the armory ”) under Nehemiah. Neh. iii, 19. B. C. 445. 

8. A Levite, probably son of Azaniah, (Neh. x, 9,) who assisted in explain- 
ing the law to the people, under Ezra. Neh. viii, 7 ; ix, 4, 5 ; xii, 8. B. C. 
about 445. 

9. Joshua, the son of Nun, is called Jeshua in Neh. viii, 17. 

10. Son of Kadmiel, one of the Levites who served in the temple, “to 
praise and to give thanks” after the restoration in the time of Eliashib. 
Neh. xii, 24. B. C. about 406. Perhaps, however, “son” is here a tran- 
scriber’s error for “ and ; ” in which case this Jeshua will be the same as 
No. 5. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia.) 

JESH'UAH, (1 Chron. xxiv, 11.) See Jeshua, 1. 

JESFAH, another form (1 Chron. xxiii, 20) of Isshiah, No. 2, (q. v.) 

JESUYFIEL, (Heb. JesimieV , whom God set up ,) a Simeonite, and 

a chief among those who migrated to the valley of Gedor. 1 Chron. iv, 36. 
B. C. about 715. 

JES'SE, (Heb. Yishay ', strong, or living ,) a son of Obed, the son of 

Boaz and Ruth. Ruth iv, 17, 22 ; 1 Chron. ii, 12; Matt, i, 5, 6 ; Luke iii, 
32. He had eight sons, the youngest of whom was David. Jesse’s 
wealth consisted chiefly of sheep, which were under the care of David. 
1 Sam. xvi, 11 ; xvii, 34, 35. The last historical mention of Jesse is in re- 
lation to the asylum which David procured for him with the king of Moab, 
1 Sam. xxii, 3. B. C. about 1062. 

is 


276 


JESUI — JESUS CHRIST. 


JES'UI, (Num. xxvi, 44.) See Ishui, No. 1. 

JE'SUS, (Gr. '\rjoovg, from the Heb. Yeshu'a , Jeshua or Joshua.) 

1. Joshua, the son of Nun. Acts vii, 45 ; Heb. iv, 8. 

2. A disciple who bad been a fellow-worker with Paul, and who sent 
salutations to the Christians of Colosse. Col. iv, 11. Called also Justus, 
(q. v.) 

JESUS CHRIST, the incarnate Son of God, and our Saviour. 

1. Name. Jesus Christ is not composed of a name and surname, but 
of a proper, name and an official title, and is properly rendered Jesus the 
Christ. Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew Jehoshua , ypqriN Jehovah 

is his salvation. This name was given to our Lord by a direct divine com- 
mand, (Luke i, 31 ; ii, 21,) as indicative of his office as Saviour. To distin- 
guish him from others of the same name he is called “ Jesus of Nazareth.” 
John xviii, 7. Christ is from Xpioror , anointed , a Greek translation of the 
Hebrew rPC^D, Messiah, and is the official title of our Saviour. 

• T 

2. Family. Jesus was the first-born of Mary, through the intervention 
of the Divine Spirit, with Joseph as his reputed father. 


Line of 

heirs to David's crown. 


Josaphat. 

Joram. 

Ozias. 

J oat ham. 

Achaz. 


david. Line of Joseph's 

Solomon. Nathan. natural descent from David. 

Rnhn'im Mattatha. 

Koboarn- Menan. 

Abia. Melea 

* sa Eliakim. 

Jonan. 

Joseph. 

Judah. 
Simeon. 

Levi. 
Matthat. 
Jorim. 

Eliezer. 


Period of 
416 years. 


Ezekias 

Manasses. 

Amon. 

Josias. 

Jechonias. 

Heir to the crown by transfer— Salathiel. 


Jose. 
Er. 

Elmodam. 
Cosam. 

Addi. 

Melchi. 

Neri. 

Salathiel— son by birth. 


Zorobabel. 

Abiud. Rhesa. 

Joanna. 

Eliakim. Ju /„ a ‘-pb. 

Semei. 

Mattathias. 


Sadoc. 


Achim. 


Period ol 
534 years, 


Eliud. 


Azor. 

Maath. 

Nagge. 

Esli. 

Naum. 
Amos. 
Mattathias. 
Joseph. 

Janna. 

Melchi. 

Levi. 

Matthan. .. Matthat, 

■ Jacob. Heli. 

| Joseph. = Joseph— sow by birth. 

Jacob’s daughter by birth— Mary. CHRIST 


Eleazar. 


3. History. (1) Birth and Early Life. According to the received 
chronology — which is, in fact, that of Dionysius Exeguus in the sixth century 









» 



















































. • 






















BETHLEHEM 





JESUS CHRIST. 


279 


— the birth of Christ occurred in the year of Rome 754, (A. D. I ;) but from 
other considerations it is probable that the Nativity took place some time 
before the month of April, 750, (B. C. 4.) The prophet Micah had foretold 
(v, 2) that the future king should be born in Bethlehem of Judea, the place 
where the house of David had its origin; but Mary dwelt in Nazareth. 
Augustus, however, had ordered a general census of the Roman empire. 
This brought Joseph, who was of the house of David, to Bethlehem, where 
the Lord was born during the stay of his parents in the exterior buildings 
of the public khan, (mu.) Luke ii, 1-7. The event was heralded the same 



KHAN. 


night to the shepherds. Luke ii, 8-20. The child Jesus was circumcised on 
the eighth day ; was presented by his mother at the usual time for the 
customary offerings for purification at the temple, where he was recognized 
by Simeon and Anna. Luke ii, 21-38. Public attention was not, however, 
attracted to the event until the “ wise men from the East,” guided mi- 
raculously by a star, came seeking the Saviour to do him homage. This, 
coming to the ears of Herod, filled him with alarm, and — having learned 
from the Sanhedrin the predicted locality — he sent the strangers to Bethle- 
hem, pretending that he wished himself to do the child reverence. When 
he found that they would not return to betray this child to him, he put to 
death all the children in Bethlehem that were under two years old. Joseph, 
warned by a dream, fled to Egypt with the young child, beyond the reach 
of Herod’s arm. After the death of Herod, in less than a year, Jesus re- 
turned with his parents to their own land, and went to Nazareth, where 
they abode. Matt, ii, 1-23 : Luke ii, 39. Except as to one event, the evangel- 
ists are silent respecting the succeeding years of our Lord’s life down to the 
commencement of his ministry. When he was twelve years old he was 
found in the temple, hearing the doctors and asking them questions. Luke 
ii, 40-52. (2) Introduction of our Lord’s Ministry, (a) Baptism. Thirty 

years had elapsed from the birth of our Lord to the opening of his ministry, 
pis forerunner, John the Baptist, was teaching and baptizing af the Jordan. 


280 


JESUS CHRIST. 


and thither Jesus went to receive baptism at the hands of John. “ John did 
not at first recognize Jesus as the Messiah, yet being, doubtless, personally 
well acquainted with his relative, in whom he must have perceived the tokens 
of an extraordinary religious personage, he modestly, declined to perform a 
ceremony that seemed to imply his own pre-eminence, (Matt, iii, 13-17; Mark 
i, 9-11; Luke iii, 21-23; A. D. 25,) but afterward complied with the re- 
quest of Jesus, on the ground of the propriety of this preliminary ordinance.” 
— M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia. Jesus received baptism at the 
hands of John, (see Smith, New Testament History, p. 395,) first, in order that 
the sacrament by which all were hereafter to be admitted into his kingdom 
might not want his example to justify its use, (Matt, iii, 15 ;) next, that John 
might have an assurance that his course as the herald of Christ was now 
completed by his appearance, (John i, 33 ;) and last, that some public token 
might be given that he was indeed the Anointed of God. Heb. v, 5. 
(ft) Temptation. Immediately after this inauguration of his ministry Jesus 
was led up of the Spirit into the wilderness (of Judea) to be tempted of the 
devil. Matt, iv, 1-11; Mark i, 12, 13; Luke iv, 1-13. The temptations of 
Satan appealed, 1st. To the animal appetite ; 2d. To the mental taste ; and 
3d. To ambition ; and if successful would have resulted in 1. Doubt; 2. Pre- 
sumption ; 3. Idolatry, (c) John’s testimony. The next season John was 
baptizing at Bethabara, beyond Jordan, and a deputation from the Sanhedrin 
waited upon him with the question, “Who art thou?” He disclaimed be- 
ing the Christ, and bore testimony to Jesus, saying, “ There standetli one 
among you, whom ye know not; he it is, who coming after me is preferred 
before me,” etc. John i, 19-27. The next day, seeing Jesus, he said to the 
people, “ Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world,” 
etc. Yers. 29-34. The day following John so spoke of Jesus as to induce 
two of his disciples (namely, Andrew and probably John) to attach them- 
selves to him ; and to these, as he was departing for Galilee, were added 
Peter and Philip. John i, 35-51. (d) Cana. Jesus now went to Cana of 

Galilee, whither he had been invited to attend a wedding, and while there 
he wrought his first miracle by changing water into wine. John ii, 1-11. 
Probably March, A. D. 26. (3) Our Lord’s First Passover and Subsequent 

Year, (a) Purification of temple. After a sojourn of “not many days” at 
Capernaum, Jesus went to Jerusalem to attend the Passover. Finding the 
temple improperly intruded upon by merchants and money-changers, he ex- 
pelled them from its sacred precincts. He answered the challenge of the 
Jews with a prediction of his resurrection. John ii, 12-22. (6) Interview 

with Nicodemus. During the paschal week his miracles confirmed the pop- 
ular impression concerning his prophetic character. Nicodemus, a “ master 
of Israel,” a member of the Sanhedrin, waited upon him by night, and was 
instructed as to the new birth. John ii, 23— iii, 21. (c) At Jordan. Jesus 

now went to the Jordan, and there tarried and baptized. John the Baptist 
was at ^Enon, farther up the river, and replied to the jealous inquiry of his 
own disciples, giving emphatic testimony to the superiority of Jesus. John 
iii, 22-36. (d) In Samaria. John’s imprisonment by Herod (Matt, iv, 12; 

xiv, 3-5 ; Mark i, 14; vi, 17, sq. ; Luke iii, 19, 20) and the opposition of the 
Pharisees (John iv, 1-3) made it advisable that Jesus should retire into 
Galilee. Luke iv, 14. While on his wa)'" through Samaria he held the re- 
markable dialogue with the Samaritan woman at the well of Jacob, (near 
Shechem,) and tarried in the city two days. John iv, 4-43. Probably De- 






NAZARETH 


JESUS CHRIST. 283 

Member, A. D. 26. ( e ) In Galilee. Arrived in Galilee, Jesus proclaimed the 

advent of the Messianic age. John iv, 43-45 ; Mat*-., iv, 17 ; Mark i, 14, 15 ; 
Luke iv, 14, 15. At Cana he spoke the word restoring to health the noble- 
man’s son who was at the point of death at Capernaum. John iv, 46-54. 
At Nazareth he expounded to the people a passage from Isaiah, (chap, 
lxi, 1,) telling them that its fulfillment was now at hand in his person. The 
same truth that had filled the Samaritans with gratitude wrought up to fury 
the men of Nazareth, who would have destroyed him if he had not escaped 
out of their hands, (Luke iv, 16-30 ;) fixed his abode in Capernaum, (Matt, iv, 
13-16 ;) wrought the mfracle of the miraculous draught of fishes, and called 
Peter, Andrew, James, and John to become his disciples. Luke v, 1-10 ; 
Matt, iv, 18-22 ; Mark i, 16-20. At Capernaum he healed the demoniac in 
the synagogue, (Mark i, 21-28; Luke.iv, 31-37,) and cured Peter’s wife’s 
mother, (Matt, viii, 14-17; Mark i, 29-34; Luke iv, 38-41;) made a tour 
with his disciples through Galilee, preaching and working miracles of heal- 
ing, among the cases being a leper. Mark i, 35-45 ; Matt, iv, 23-25 ; viii, 
2-4; Luke iv, 42-v, 16. Probably February, A. D. 26. Returning to Ca- 
pernaum, Jesus healed the “ sick of the palsy,” (Mark ii, 1-12 ; Luke v, 17- 
26 ; Matt, ix, 2-8,) and, on an excursion by the lake shore, summoned Mat- 
thew to be his disciple. Matt, ix, 9 ; Mark ii, 13, 14; Luke v, 27, 28. Prob- 
ably April, A. D. 27. (4) Our Lord’s Second Passover and Subsequent 
Year, (a) Bethesda. Jesus went up to Jerusalem to “ a feast of the Jews,” 
which was probably the Passover. Saturday, April 12, A. D. 27. At the 
pool Bethesda, ( house of mercy,) which was near the sheep-gate (Neh. iii, 1) 
on the north-east side of the temple, Jesus saw many infirm persons waiting 
their turn for the healing virtues of the water. Among them was a man 
who had an infirmity thirty-eight years. Jesus made him whole by a word, 
bidding him take up his bed and walk. The miracle was done on the Sab- 
bath ; and the Jews, who acted against Jesus, rebuked the man for carrying 
his bed. It was a labor, and as such forbidden. Jer. xvii, 21. In our 
Lord’s justification of himself, “ My Father worketh hitherto, and I work,” 
there is an unequivocal claim to the divine nature. John v, 1, sq. ( b ) In 
the cornfield. Another discussion about the Sabbath arose from the disciples 
plucking the ears of corn as they went through the fields. Matt, xii, 1-8 ; 
Mark ii, 23-28 ; Luke vi, 1-5. April 19, A. D. 27. The time of this is 
somewhat uncertain ; some would place it a year later, just after the third 
Passover ; but its place is much more probably here, (c) Man with withered 
hand. The next Sabbath our Lord entered into the synagogue, probably at 
Capernaum, and found there a man with a withered hand — some poor arti- 
san, perhaps, whose handiwork was his means of life. Jesus was about 
to heal him when the Pharisees objected, but he looked round about upon 
them “ with anger, being grieved at the hardness of their hearts,” and an- 
swered their cavils by healing the man. Matt, xii, 9-14 ; Mark iii, 1-6 ; Luke 
vi, 6-1 1. (d) At Sea of Galilee. Here Jesus preached to the multitudes, cured 
the sick and demoniacs, and, after a night spent in prayer, chose the twelve 
apostles. Matt, xii, 15-21 ; Mark iii, 7-12; Luke vi, 12-16. Coming down 
with them to the plain, he healed the diseased among the multitude. Luke 
vi, 17-19. (e) Sermon on the Mount. Seating himself upon a commanding 

site of the mount, (probably Kurn Hattin , “Horns of Hattin,”) Jesus de- 
livered his memorable sermon; setting forth the principles of the New Testa- 
ment dispensation. Matt, v-vii. (/) The centurion's servant was healed on the 


284 JESUS CHRIST. 

return of Jesus to Capernaum, at the instance of the Jewish elders. Matt, 
viii, 5-13; Luke vii, 1-10. (g) AtNain. Jesus restores to life the son of 

a widow, to the astonishment of the beholders. Luke vii, 11-17. (h) Reply 

to John. About this time John the Baptist, after languishing a year in a 
dungeon, and perhaps suffering from depression and perplexity, sent two of 
his disciples with the question, “ Art thou He that should come? ” Jesus 
answered by miracles performed in their presence, and a reference to Mes- 
sianic prophecies, (Isa. lxi, 1 ; xxxv, 5, 6,) and upon their departure eulo- 
gized John, and uttered denunciations against the cities where he had 



POOL OF BETHESDA. 


preached. Matt, xi, 2-30; Luke vii, 18-35. (i) Anointing. At the house 
of Simon, a Pharisee, a penitent woman anointed his feet while reclining at 
the table, when his host scarcely restrained his surprise that Jesus should 
permit this familiarity. Jesus replied with the parable of the two debtors, 
and then assured the woman of her pardon. Luke vii, 36-50. (j) Second 

tour of Galilee . Jesus set out on his second tour of Galilee (summer of 
A. D. 27) accompanied by the twelve and several women, “ which minis- 
tered unto him of their substance.” Luke viii, 1-3. The following are in- 


JESUS CHRIST. 


285 

bidents of this tour : 1. The healing of the demoniac, the scribes and 
Pharisees charge him with collusion with Satan, which he declared to be 
an unpardonable sin against the Holy Spirit. Matt, xii, 22-37 ; Mark 
iii, 10-30; Luke xi, 16-24. 2. Declares the spiritual relationship of 
believers. Matt, xii, 46-50; Mark iii, 31-35; Luke viii, 19-21. 3. At 

the house of a Pharisee Jesus exposed the absurd and hypocritical zeal 
of the sect concerning externals. Luke xi, 37-54. 4. Addressed a great 

multitude against hypocrisy and covetousness, illustrating by the parable 
of the rich man, etc. Luke xii, 1-59. 5. Slaughter of the Galileans made 

the occasion of an exhortation to the impenitent, enforced by parable of the 
tig-tree. Luke xiii, 1-9. 6. Parables of the sower, mustard-seed, leaven, 

tares, etc. Matt, xiii, 1-53; Mark iv, 1-34; Luke viii, 4^18. 7. A scribe 

offering to become his disciple was repelled by being reminded by Jesus 
what he would encounter in his company, aud two others were refused 
temporary leave of absence lest they might be weaned altogether from his 
service. Matt, viii, 18-22 ; Luke ix, 57-62. 8. Stilling of the tempest while 

crossing the Sea of Galilee. Matt, viii, 23-27 ; Mark iv, 35-41 ; Luke viii, 
22-25 . 9. Healing of two demoniacs at Gadara, on the east coast 

of Galilee, and destruction of swine. Matt, viii, 28-34; Mark v, 1-20; 
Luke viii, 26-40. 10. Levi’s feast, raising of Jairus’s daughter, and curing 

a female among the crowd of a chronic hemorrhage. Matt, ix, 1, 10-26; 
Mark ii, 15-22: v, 22-43; Luke v, 29, sq. ; viii, 41-56. 11. Leaving Jai- 

rus’s house, Jesus restored to sight two blind men and cast out the spirit of 
a dumb demouiac. Matt, ix, 27-34. 12. Jesus revisits Nazareth, and is 

again rejected. Mark vi, 1—6 ; Matt, xiii, 54-58. (k) Third tour of Galilee. 

About this time (probably January and February, A.D. 28) Jesus sent 
forth the apostles in pairs to preach and work miracles, (Matt, ix, 36-38 ; 
x, 1, 5-42; Mark vi, 7-11; Luke ix, 1-5,) while he made his third circuit 
of Galilee for a like purpose. Matt, xi, 1. The following are incidents of 
this period: 1. Death of John the Baptist, (Matt, xiv, 6-12; Mark vi, 21- 
29,) and information that Herod believes Jesus to be John risen from the 
dead. Matt, xiv, 1, 2 ; Mark vi, 14-16 ; Luke ix, 7-9. 2. Return of the 

twelve, and retirement with Jesus across the lake. Mark vi, 30, 31 ; Luke 
ix, 10. 3. Feeding of the five thousand on five loaves and two fishes. 

Mark vi, 35-44; Luke ix, 11-17; Matt, xiv, 13-21; John vi. 1-14. 4. Mul- 
titude desiring to make him king dismissed, disciples sent across the lake, 
Jesus praying most of the night on a neighboring hill, and about morning 
rejoining them by walking on the water. Matt, xiv, 22-33; Mark vi, 45-56; 
John vi, 15-21. 5. Discourse in the synagogue at Capernaum, many disci- 
ples turn back, and Peter’s profession of faith. John vi, 22-71. (5) Our 

Lord’s Third Passover. Until final departure from Galilee — time about six 
months. Aware of the intention of the hierarchy to put him to death, Jesus 
remained at Capernaum during the Passover. John vii, 1. Probably Sun- 
day, March 28, A. D. 28. 1. Jesus justifies his disciples for eating with 

unwashed hands, and rebukes the Pharisees for their traditions. Matt, xv, 
1-20 ; Mark vii, 1-23. 2. In Phoenicia, besought by a Gentile woman, he 

heals her demoniac daughter. Matt, xv, 21-28; Mark vii, 24-30. 3. Re- 

turning through the Decapolis, he heals a deaf and dumb man and others, 
and feeds the four thousand. Matt, xv, 29-39 ; Mark vii, 24-37. 4. Phari- 

sees and Sadducees again ask a sign near Magdala. Matt, xv, 39; xvi, 1-4; 
Mark viii, 10-12. 5. Heals a blind man at Bethsaida. Mark viii, 22-26, 


286 


JESUS CHRlStf. 


6. Peter renews his confession that Jesus was the Messiah, and Jesus fore- 
tells his own death, etc., Caesarea Philippi. Matt, xvi, 13-28 ; Mark viii, 
27-38; Luke ix, 18-27. 7. Transfiguration and healing of a dumb demo- 
niac. Matt, xvii, 1-21; Mark ix, 2-29 ; Luke ix, 28-43. 8. Return to Gali- 

lee, and again foretelling his death and resurrection. Matt, xvii, 22, 23 ; 
Mark ix, 30-32 ; Luke ix, 43-45. 9. At Capernaum provides tribute-money. 

Matt, xvii, 24-27. Probably June. A. D. 28. 10. The disciples exhorted 

to humility, forbearance, and brotherly love. Matt, xviii, 1-35 ; Mark ix, 
33-50 ; Luke ix, 46-50. 11. Seventy disciples instructed and sent forth 



into the region which he was soon to visit. Luke x, 1-16. 12. Final de- 

parture from Galilee, inhospitably treated in Samaria, where he heals ten 
lepers. John vii, 2-10; Luke ix, 51-56; xvii, 11-19. Dr. Whedon (Com- 
mentary) places the last two events after the feast. (6) The Last Six 
Months. 1 . Arriving at Jerusalem about the middle of the Feast of Taber- 
nacles, Jesus boldly vindicated his claims and action. John vii, 11-52. 
2. The next morning, retyrning from the Mount of Olives, he dismissed 
With an admonition the woman taken in adultery, (John viii, 1-11 ;) reprov- 


JEStJS CHRIST. 28 ? 

mg the unbelieving Jews, is threatened with stoning, but escapes out of 
their hands. Yers. 12-59. 3. Return of the seventy, (Luke x, 17-24; prob- 

ably October, A. D. 28,) and conversation with a lawyer, in which is intro- 
duced the parable of the good Samaritan. Yers. 25-37. 4. At Bethany 

chides the anxious Martha and defends the inquiring Mary, (vers. 38—42 ;) 
and after a season of private prayer (probably in Gethsemane, the next 
morning) teaches his disciples to pray. Luke xi., 1-13. 5. Entering the 

city, he anointed the eyes of a blind man and bade him wash in the pool of 
Siloam; replies to those who objected to the cure because it had taken 
place on the Sabbath. John ix, 1-x, 21. Saturday, Nov. 28, A. D. 28. 
6. At Feast of Dedication, while in Solomon’s porch, in answer to the de- 



SILOAM. 


mands of the Jews, “ If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly,” Jesus replied, 
“ I and my Father are one.” His hearers were about to stone him for blas- 
phemy, but he escaped, and retired to the Jordan, John x, 22-42. 7. At 

Bethany raises Lazarus from the dead. John xi, 1-46. Probably January, 
A. D. 29. On account of the determination of the hierarchy to put him to 
death, Jesus withdrew to Ephraim, (or Ephron, “ The modern Taiyibeh. about 
twenty-six Roman miles north-east of Jerusalem.” — Robinson.) John xi, 47-54. 
Afterward he went to Perea, beyond Jordan, where, among other miracles, 
he healed an infirm woman. Matt, xix, 1, 2; Mark x, 1; Luke xiii, 10-21. 
Probably February, A. D. 29. (7) Return to Jerusalem. 1 . Teaches ne- 

cessity of personal preparation for heaven, (Luke xiii, 22-30,) and replies to 


JESUS CHfeiSi 1 . 


28 $ 

those who warn him of Herod’s purpose to kill him. Vers. 31-35. 2. Dines 

with a Pharisee on the Sabbath, cures a man of the dropsy, and utters'par- 
able of supper and wedding-garment, (Luke xiv, 1-24; Matt, xxii, 1-14,) 
and tells the multitude what is required of true disciples. Luke xiv, 25-35. 
3. Teaches the divine interest in the lowly, and parable of the lost sheep, 
lost piece of money, and the prodigal son, (Luke xv, 1, sq. ;) also parables 
of the unjust steward, the rich man and Lazarus. Luke xvi, 1-31. 4. Urges 

the importance of forbearance, faith, and humility, (Luke xvii, 1-10;) tells 
the manner of his coming. Vers. 20-37. 5. Parables of the importunate 

widow and of the Pharisee and publican. Luke xviii, 1-14. 6. Speaks con- 

cerning divorce, blesses little children, the rich young man urged to self- 
denial, and parable of the laborers in the vineyard. Matt, xix, 3-30 ; Mark x, 
2-31; Luke xviii, 18-30. 7. Foretells a third time his death and resurrec- 

tion, (Matt, xx, 17-19 ; Mark x, 32-34 ; Luke xviii, 31-34,) and answers the 
ambitious request of James and John. Matt, xx, 20-28 ; Mark x, 35-45. 
8. Near Jericho heals two blind men, (Matt, xx, 29-34; Mark x, 46-52: 
Luke xviii, 35-43,) interview with Zaccheus and parable of the “ talents.” 
Luke xix, 2-28. 9. At Bethany, six days before the Passover, Jesus was 

entertained at the house of Simon, and vindicated Mary’s act in anointing 
him against the objections of Judas. John xi, 55-xii, 11. (8) The Passion 

Week. The events of the passion week are given in detail, and the suc- 
cessive days somewhat distinctly marked. “It is, however, uncertain how 
John reckons his ‘ six days before the Passover.’ It may be exclusive or 
incluswe of the extremes, or it may include one and exclude the other.” — 
Whedon, Commentary. Very many authorities (including Olshausen, Tho- 
luck, Meyers, Godet, Whedon, Smith, Farrar, Geikie) place the public entry 
of Jesus into Jerusalem, on Sunday. Dr. Strong (M’Clintock and Strong’s 
Cyclopcedia ) prefers Monday, and so makes Wednesday a day of busy toil in- 
stead of quiet and rest. Sunday. — Triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem ; 
the indignation of the hierarchy, who vainly endeavored to check the popular 
demonstration ; Jesus bewailing the impenitence of the Jews and the impend- 
ing destruction of the city, (Matt, xxi, 1-9 ; Mark, xi, 1-10; John xii, 16, 17, 
19 ; Luke xix, 29-44;) cleansing of the temple and return in the evening to 
Bethany. Matt, xxi, 10-17; Mark xi, 11. Monday. — Cursing of the green 
but fruitless lig-tree, a fitting type of the unproductive Jewish nation; 
teaching in the temple and return to Bethany. Matt, xxi, 18, 19 ; Mark xi, 
12-14. Tuesday. — The withered fig-tree used by Jesus to inculcate faith. 
Matt, xxi, 20-22 ; Mark xi, 20-26. The day was filled with various dis- 
cussions. 1. On entering the temple the hierarchy questioned him as to 
his authority, and were met by the counter-question as to the authority of 
the Baptist’s mission, Jesus pointing the moral by the parables of the two 
sons and the vineyard. Matt, xxi, 23-46 ; Mark xi, 27— xii, 12 ; Luke xx, 1- 
19. 2. Jesus is questioned concerning tribute, and answers by an appeal 

to the coin paid in tribute. Matt, xxii, 15-22; Mark xii, 13-17; Luke xx, 
20-26. 3. Questioned by the Sadducees as to the resurrection, he disposes 

of the difficulty raised in the case of seven brothers married to one wife by 
declaring the spirituality of the future state. Matt, xxii, 23-33 ; Mark xii, 
18-27 ; Luke xx, 27-40. 4. Answers the lawyer as to which is the great 

commandment. Mark xxii, 34-40 ; Mark xii, 28-34. 5. Questions the 

Pharisees as to whose descendant the Messiah should be, and then de- 
nounces the hierarchy for their hypocrisy and pretension, bewailing the fate 


jfisti^ dHftiST. 


289 


of the city. Matt, xxii, 41-xxiii, 39 ; Mark xii, 35-40 ; Luke xx, 41-47. 
6. Praises the poor widow for her offering, as showing more liberality than 
the rich who had given of their abundance. Mark xii, 41-44; Luke xxi, 
1-4. 7. Certain G-reeks, introduced to Jesus by Philip and Andrew, are met 

by the declaration of his approaching death, while a celestial voice an- 
nounce 1 that glory should thereby accrue to God ; after a brief conversa- 
tion, in which he uttered his last words of promise and warning, Jesus de- 
parted finally from the temple. John xii, 20-50. 8. While crossing the 

Mount of Olives his disciples called his attention to the temple ; he pre- 
dicted its speedy demolition, the downfall of the city and nation ; and then 
passed to the scenes of the final judgment, enforcing the duty of faithful- 
ness and watching by the parables of the ten virgins and the faithful and 
unfaithful servant. Matt, xxiv, 3-xxv, 46 ; Mark xiii, 1-37 ; Luke xxi, 5-36. 
9. Meeting of the Sanhedrin to arrange for the private arrest of Jesus on 
Judas engaging with them to betray his Master into their hands. Matt, xxvi, 
1-16: Mark xiv, 1-11; Luke xxii, 1-6; John xiii, 2. Wednesday. — We 
are not told how Je3us spent this day, but lie apparently stayed in privacy, 
occupied in holy contemplation and prayer. Thursday. — (a) The Supper. 
Jesus sends Peter and John into Jerusalem with directions where to eat the 
Passover meal, (Matt, xxvi, 17, sq. ; Luke xxii, 7-13,) whither Jesus with 
the rest of his disciples came in the evening. While the supper was being 
eaten he answered the old question as to who should be the greatest by 
washing their feet; declares his own betrayal, by a sign known to Judas 
alone, (Luke xxii, 14-17, 24-30 ; John xiii, 1-26 ; Matt, xxvi, 20-23,) which 
was followed by the withdrawal of Judas; foretells the fall of Peter and 
the dispersion of the twelve; closes the meal by instituting the Eucharist. 
Matt, xxvi, 26-29, and parallels. Between the meal and the hymn of 
praise Jesus conversed with the apostles, promised them the gift of the 
Holy Spirit, and then made his intercessory prayer. John xiii, 31-37 ; 
xiv, 1-xv, 17 ; xv, 18-xvii, 26. (/>) Gethsemane. Retiring to the Mount of 

Olives, Jesus entered the garden of Gethsemane; he withdrew with Pe- 
ter, James, and John. Leaving them he retired about a stone’s throw aud 
prayed three times in such agony that blood-tinged sweat was forced from 
the pores; Judas now appeared leading those who were to arrest Jesus; 
twice they recoiled from his presence before Judas gave the signal to 
seize him, by the traitor’s kiss^ Peter was rebuked for drawing the sword, 
and the ear of the one he had smitten was healed with a touch. Jesus then 
suffered himself to be taken prisoner. Matt, xxvi, 36-56 : Mark xiv, 32-50 ; 
Luke xxii, 39-54; John xviii, 1-12. (c) As prisoner. Jesus was led first 

to the house of Armas, (John xviii, 13,) who vainly endeavored to extract 
from him some confession respecting himself or disciples. It was here that 
Peter three times denied any association with his Master. Matt, xxvi, 58, 
69-75; Mark xiv, 54, 66-72; Luke xxii, 54-62; John xviii, 15-18, 25-27. 
Annas then sent Jesus to the acting high-priest, Caiaphas, (John xviii, 24,) 
who assembled at daylight the Sanhedrin, before which Jesus confesses 
himself to be the Christ and is condemned to death, (John xviii, 19-23;) 
after which the officers in charge indulged in the vilest insults upon his per- 
son. Matt, xxvi, 57, 59-63; Luke xxii, 67-71, and parallels. Friday. — 
Jesus was now led to Pilate for his legal sanction of the sentence of the 
Sanhedrin. Pilate, hearing in the charge preferred against Jesus that he 
began his sedition in Galilee, sent him to Herod, who sent him back to 


JESUS CHRIST. 


29 6 

Pilate arrayed in a mock attire of royalty. Matt, xxvii, 1-14 ; Mark xv, 1-5 { 
Luke xxiii, 1-5 ; John xviii, 28-38. Pilate, convinced of the innocency of 
Jesus, endeavored to free him, but, yielding to the clamor of the Jews, he 
allowed Jesus to be scourged, and delivered him up to be crucified. Matt, 
xxvii, 11-31; Mark xv, 6-20; Luke xxiii, 6-23; John xviii, 39-xix, 16. 
Repentance and death of Judas. Matt, xxvii, 3-10. (d) Crucifixion. The 

place of execution was Golgotha, or Calvary, a place the site of which is 
now uncertain. On the way Jesus fainted under the weight of the cross, 
and his persecutors, unwilling to defile themselves with the accursed bur- 
den, laid hold of Simon of Cyrene and compelled him to carry the cross after 
Jesus. After offering him wine and myrrh they crucified him between two 
thieves. Pilate set over him in three languages the inscription, “ Jesus, 
the king of the Jews.” The chief priests took exception to this that it did 
not denounce him as falsely calling himself by that name, but Pilate re- 
fused to alter it. One of the two thieves reviled Jesus at first, (Matt.,) 
and then, at the sight of the constancy of Jesus, repented, (Luke.) Matt, 
xxvii, Mark xv, Luke xxiii, John xix. Jesus commended Mary his mother 
to the care of John. From the sixth hour to the ninth there was darkness 
over the whole land. At the ninth hour (3 P. M.) Jesus uttered with a 
loud voice the opening words of the twenty-second Psalm. One of those 
present dipped a sponge in the common sour wine of the soldiers and put it 
on a reed to moisten the sufferer’s lips. Again lie cried with a loud voice. 
“ It is finished,” (John,) “ Father, into thy hands 1 commend my spirit,” 
(Luke.) and gave up the ghost. Matt, xxvii, 31-56; Mark xv, 20—41 ; Luke 
xxiii, 33-49; John xix, 17-30. Then the veil of the temple was rent in 
twain, and there was a great earthquake, while many dead rose from their 
graves. Toward evening the Jews petitioned Pilate to cause the death of 
the crucified persons, that they might be buried before the Sabbath, for 
which they were very zealous. Those who executed the order found Jesus 
dead already, but one of them plunged a spear into his side, when water 
mingled with blood issued from the wound. John xix, 31-37. Joseph of 
Arimathea, a member of the Council, but a secret disciple of Jesus, came to 
Pilate to beg the body of Jesus, that he might bury it. Nicodemus assisted 

in this work of love, 
and they anointed the 
body and laid it in Jo- 
seph’snewtomb. Matt, 
xxvii, 57-61; Markxv, 
37-47; Luke xxiii, 46- 

THE MODE OF ENFOLDING THE DEAD IN GRAVE-CLOTHES. 

Saturday. — The chief 

priests and Pharisees, with Pilate’s permission, set a watch over the tomb, 
“lest his disciples come by night and steal him away, and say unto the peo- 
ple, He is risen from the dead.” Matt, xxvii, 62-66. Sunday. — The Resurrec- 
tion. Very early in the morning Jesus left the sepulcher, which an angel 
opened ; and soon after the women appeared with spices to complete the 
embalming of the body. Seeing the stone removed, Mary Magdalene re- 
turned to tell Peter ; the rest entering missed the body, and were told by 
the two angels of the resurrection. On their way* to tell the disci- 
ples they met Jesus himself. Mark xvi, 1-8; John xx, 2; Matt, xxviii, 1- 
10; Luke xxiv, 3-8. The guard, recovered from their alarm, told the chief 



J ETHER. 


291 


priests what had happened, and were bribed to circulate the story of the 
stealing away of the body while they slept. Matt, xxviii, 11-15. Aroused 
by Mary Magdalene, Peter and John hastened to the sepulcher, verified the 
truth of the statement, and returned home. Mary, arriving soon after, met 
Jesus and mistook him for the gardener, but was soon made aware that it 
was Jesus himself. John xx, 11; Mark xvi, 9-11. (9) Until Ascension. 

For forty days Jesus appeared at intervals to his disciples, and “ speaking of 
the things pertaining to the kingdom of God.” Acts i, 3. (a) Emmaus. 

On the same day that he revealed himself to Mary Magdalene Jesus, having 
been seen by Peter also, (1 Cor. xv, 5 ; Luke xxiv, 34,) appeared to two 
disciples who were on the way to Emmaus. Mark xvi. 12; Luke xxiv, 13- 
35. ( b ) Appears to apostles. In the evening the apostles were gathered to- 

gether in Jerusalem when these two disciples entered, learned of the Lord’s 
appearance to Peter, and narrated the circumstances attending his appear- 
ance to them. At this moment Jesus manifested himself, overcame their 
unbelief by showing his wounds, eating before them, and giving them in- 
structions respecting their mission. Luke xxiv, 33-49; John xx, 21; Mark 
xvi, 15-18. (c) To Thomas. Thomas, for some unknown reason, was not 

present at the interview named, and refused to accept the assurances of his 
associates that they had seen the Lord. A week later Jesus appeared to 
the disciples, Thomas being present and convinced. John xx, 24-29. ( d ) At 
Galilee. Shortly after Jesus appeared to his disciples on the shore of the 
Sea of Tiberias as they were fishing. Acting according to his direction, 
they secured a miraculous catch of fish, and coming ashore partook of a 
meal which he prepared. Here occurred the restoration of Peter and the 
intimation of his martyrdom. Matt, xxviii, 16; John xxi, 4-18. (e) Other 

appearances. The next appearance of Jesus was to “ about five hundred of 
the brethren,” (1 Cor. xv, 6,) probably in Galilee, (Matt, xxviii, 18-20;) then 
to James, (1 Cor. xv. 7 ;) and finally to all of the apostles, to whom, at the 
end of forty days from his passion, he gave a general charge concerning 
their mission. On Mount Olivet, near the village of Bethany, while in the 
act of blessing them, he was received up out of their sight. While they 
gazed up into heaven two angels appeared and assured them that “ this 
same Jesus ” should return in a similar manner. Luke xxiv, 51 ; Acts i, 2-12. 

JE'THER, (Heb. Ye'ther , in', cord , , surplus.) 

1. Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses. Exod. iv, 18, margin. 

2. The first-born of Gideon’s sons, who, when called upon to execute the 
captured Midianitish kings, Zebal and Zalmunna, timidly declined on account 
of his youth. Judg. viii, 20. B. C. about 1249. According to Judg. ix, 18, 
he was slain, with sixty-nine of his brothers, by the hands of Abimelech. 

3. The father of Amasa, captain-general of Absalom’s army. Jether is 
merely another form of Ithra, (2 Sam. xvii, 25,) the latter being probably a 
corruption. He is described in 1 Cliron. ii, 17, as an Ishmaelite, which again 
is more likely to be correct than the “ Israelite ” of the Hebrew in 2 Sam. xvii, 
or the “ Jezreelite ” of the LXX and Vulgate in the same passage. (Keil and 
Delitzsch, Commentary , in loco.) Kimchi suggests “ that in the land of Ish- 
mael Jether was called the Israelite from his nationality, and in that of Israel 
they called him the Ishmaelite on account of his living in the land of Ishmael.” 

4. The son of Jada, a descendant of Hezron, of the tribe of Judah, 
1 Chron, ii ? 32, 


292 


JETHETH — JEZEBEL. 


5. The son of Ezra, whose name occurs in a dislocated passage in the 
genealogy of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 17. 

6. The chief of a family of warriors of the line of Asher, and father of 
Jephunneh. 1 Chron. vii, 38. He is probably the same as Ithran. Yer. 37. 

JETH'ETH, (Heb. Yelheth', nn\ a peg,) one of the phylarchs (Author- 
ized Version, “dukes”) who came of Esau. Gen. xxxvi, 40 ; 1 Chron. i, 51. 
(Smith, s. v.) 

JETH'RO, (Heb. Yithro', i“in\ excellence , superiority ,) a priest or prince 

of Midian, both offices probably being combined in one person. Moses 
spent the forty years of his exile from Egypt with him, and married his 
duighter Zipporah. Exod. iii, 1; iv, 18. B. C. 1491. By the advice of 
Jethro, Moses appointed deputies to judge the congregation and share the 
burden of government with himself, (Exod. xviii ;) and on account of his local 
knowledge he was entreated to remain with the Israelites throughout, their 
journey to Canaan. Num. x, 31, 33. It is said in Exod. ii, 18, that the priest 
of Midian whose daughter Moses married was Reuel ; afterward, at chap, 
iii. 1, he is called Jethro, as also in chap, xviii; but in Hum. x, 29, “ Hobab 
the son of Raguel the Midianite” is apparently called Moses’s father-in-law. 
(Compare Judg. iv, 1 1.) The probability is that Jethro and Raguel were but 
different names of Moses’s father-in-law, and that the son, Hobab, was his 
brother-in-law. (Smith, Cyclopcedia , s. v.) 

JE'TUR, (Heb. Yetur', inclosure , circle,) one of the twelve sons of 

Ishmael. Gen. xxv, 15 ; 1 Chron. i, 31. B. C. after 1800. His name stands 
also for his descendants, the Iturasans, (1 Chron. v, 19,) living east of the 
northern Jordan. Luke iii, I. 

JEU'EL, (Heb. Yeuel', treasurer of, ox protected by, GW,) a descend- 

ant of Zerah, who, with 690 of his kindred, dwelt in Jerusalem after the 
captivity. 1 Chron. ix, 6. B. C. 536. 

JE'USH, (Heb. Yeush', collecting , assembler.) 

1. The first of the three sons of Esau by Aholibamah, born in Canaan, 
but afterward a sheik of the Edomites. Gen. xxxvi, 5, 14, 18; 1 Chron. i, 
35. B. C. about 1760. 

2. The first-named son of Bilhan, the grandson of Benjamin. 1 Chron. \ii, 
10. B. C. after 1700. 

3. A Levite, one of the four sons of Shimei, of the Gershonites. He, with 
his brother Beriah, not having many sons, were reckoned as the third branch 
of the family. 1 Chron. xxiii, 10, 11. B. C. 1015. 

4. The first-named of three sons of Rehoboam, apparently by Abihail, his 
second wife. 2 Chron. xi, 19. B. C. after 975. 

JE'UZ, (Heb. Yeats', counselor ,) the head of a Benjnmite house, 

one of the sons of Shaharaim. born of his wife Hodesh in Moab. 1 Chron. 
viii, 10. 

JEZANI'AH, (Jer. xl, 8 ; xlii, 1.) See Jaazaniah, 1. 

•TEZ'EBEXj, (Heb. Ize'bel , non- cohabited, chaste ,) the daughter of 

$tlibaal ? king of Tyre and Sidon, and queen of Ahab. 


JEZEBEL. 


293 


1. Personal History. The first mention of Jezebel in the sacred nar- 
rative is her marriage with Ahab. 1 Kings xvi, 31. B. C. 918. (1) Intro- 

duces Idolatry. The first effect of her influence was the immediate estab- 
lishment of the Phoenician worship on a grand scale at the court of Ahab. 
At her table were supported no less than 450 prophets of Baal and 400 of 
Astarte, (1 Kings xvi, 31, 32; xviii, 19.) while the prophets of Jehovah 
were slain by her orders. 1 Kings xviii, 13 ; 2 Kings ix, 7. (2) Opposes 

Elijah. When at last the people, at the instigation of Elijah, rose against 
her ministers and slaughtered them at the foot of Carmel, and when Ahab 
was terrified into submission, she alone retained her presence of mind ; and 
when she received, in the palace of Jezreel. the t : dings that her religion 
was all but destroyed, (1 Kings, xix, 1.) she vowed to take the life of the 
prophet. See Elijah. (3) Secures the Death of Naboth. When she found 
her husband cast down by his disappointment at being thwarted by Naboth 
she took the matter into her own hands. 1 Kings xxi, 7. She wrote a war- 
rant in Ahab’s name, which was to secure the death of Naboth, (q. v.) 
To her, and not to Ahab, was sent the announcement that the royal wishes 
were accomplished, (1 Kings xxi, 14,) and she bade her husband go and 
take the vacant property. On her, accordingly, fell the prophet’s curse as 
well as on her husband. 1 Kings xxi, 23. B. C. 899. (4) Influence. Her 

policy was so triumphant that there were at last but 7,000 people who had 
not bowed the knee to Baal, nor kissed the hand of his image. Through 
her daughter Athaliah, queen of Judah, the same policy prevailed fora time 
in that kingdom. She survived Ahab fourteen years, and maintained 
considerable ascendency over her son Jehoram. (5) Death. When Jehu 
entered Jezreel Jezebel was in the palace, which stood by the gate of the 
city, overlooking the approach from the east. She determined to face the 
destroyer of her family, whom she saw rapidly advancing in his chariot. 



KOHL BOXES AND IMPLEMENTS. 


She painted her eyelids in the Eastern fashion with antimony, so as to give 
a darker border to the eyes and make them look larger and brighter, possi- 
bly in order to induce Jehu, after the manner of eastern usurpers, to take 
her, the widow of his predecessor, for his wife, but more probably as the 
last act of regal splendor. She tired her head, (that is, adorned her head 
and hair with a queenly head-dress,) and, looking down upon him from the 
high latticed window in the tower, she met him by an allusion to a former 


294 


JEZER — JIDLAPH. 


act of treason in the history of her adopted country. Jehu looked up from 
Ins chariot. Two or three eunuchs of the royal harem showed their faces 
at the windows, and at his command dashed the ancient princess down from 
the chamber. She fell immediately in front of the conqueror’s chariot. 
When afterward he wished to show respect to her corpse as that of “ a 
king’s daughter,” no hing was found of her but the skull, the palms of her 
hands, and" the soles of her feet. 2 Kings ix, 7, 30, sq. B. C. 884. 

2. Character. ‘‘Jezebel was a woman in whom, with the reckless and 
licentious habits of an oriental queen, were united the sternest and fiercest 
qualities inherent in the Phoenician people. The wild license of her life, the 
magical fascination of her arts or of her character, became a proverb in 
the nation. 2 Kings ix, 22. Long afterward her name lived as the by-word 
for all that was execrable, and in the Apocalypse it is given to a church or 
an individual in Asia Minor, combining in like manner fanaticism and profli- 
gacy. Rev. ii, 20.” — Smith. 

JEZER, (Heb. Ye'tser, “i formation,) the third-named of the sons of 

Naphtali, (Gen. xlvi, 24; Num. xxvi. 49; 1 Chron. vii, 13,) and progenitor 
of the Jezerites. Num. xxvi, 49. B. C. about 1706. 

JEZFAH, (Heb. Yizziyah ', ITP, whom Jehovah sprinkles ,) an Israelite of 

the “ sons ” of Parosh, who put away his heathen wife after the exile. Ezra 
x, 25. B. C. 456. 

JE'ZIEL, (Heb. YezieV , ^XT, assembly of God,) & “son” of Azmareth, 

and one of the skilled Benjamite archers who joined David at Ziklag. 
1 Chron. xii, 3. B. C. about 1058. 

JEZLFAH, (Heb. Yizliah ', nX^P, drawn out, preserved ,) one of the 

“ sous ” (or descendants) of Elpaal, and apparently a chief Benjamite resi- 
dent at Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 18. B. C. probably about 588. 
JEZRAHFAH, (Heb. Yizrachyah ', JTrnP, whom Jehovah brings forth,) 

the superintendent of the singers at the dedication of the walls of Jerusa- 
lem after the exile. Neh. xii, 42. B. C. 445. 

JEZO'AR, (Heb. Yetschar', *in¥\ dazzling,) the sou of Helah, a wife of 

Ashur, the father (founder) of Tekoa. 1 Chron. iv, 7. 

JEZ'REEL, (Heb. Yizreel, ^XJTlP, sown by God.) 

1. A descendant of the father (or founder) of Etam, of the line of Judah. 
1 Chron. iv, 3. 

2. The oldest son of the prophet Hosea, so called because of the great 
slaughter predicted by his father. Hos. i, 4, 5. B. C. about 785. 

JIB'SAM, (Heb. Yibsam ', pleasant,) one of the “ sons ” (descend- 

ants) of Tola, the son of Issachar, in David’s army. 1 Chron. vii, 2. B. C. 
about 1017. Or he may have been a son of Tola with descendants in the 
army of David. 

JID'IjAPH, (Heb. Yidlapli ', ?pT, tearful, weeping ,) the seventh-named 

of the eight sons of Nahor (Abraham’s brother) by Milcah. Gen, xxii, 2? r 
JB. C. about 1870. 


JIMNA — JOAB. 


295 


JIM'NA, (Num. xxvi, 44,) JIM'NAH, (Gen. xlvi, 17.) See Imnah. 

JO'AB, (Heb. Yoab\ Jehovah his father.) 

1. A “captain of the host” of David. 

1 . Family. Joab was one of the three sons of Zeruiah, the sister of 
David. His father is not named in the Scriptures, but Josephus {Ant., vii, 
1, 3) gives his name as Suri. He seems to have resided at Bethlehem, and 
to have died before his sons, as we find mention of his sepulcher at that 
place. 2 Sam. ii, 32. 

2. Personal History. (1) First Appearance. Joab’s first appearance 

was in connection with his brothers, Abishai and Asahel, in command of 
David’s army, when they went against Abner, who was championing the 
claims to the throne of Ishbosheth. The armies met at the pool of Gibeon, 
a general action was brought on, and Abner worsted. In his flight he 
killed Asahel, who was pursuing him. 2 Sam. ii, 13-32. B. C. 1053. 
(2) Avenges Asahel. Joab was greatly angered at the death of his brother, 
but postponed his revenge. Abner, quarreling with Ishbosheth, came to 
David in Hebron, in order to enlist in his service. When Joab returned 
from some warlike excursion and was informed of Abner’s visit he chided 
the king and accused Abner of treachery. He then sent messengers after 
Abner, who returned at once and was slain by Joab. David reprobated the 
act, but seems to have been in fear of his able and intrepid nephew. 2 Sam. 
iii, 8-39. B. C. about 1048. (3) In Chief Command. At the siege of Jeru- 

salem Joab succeeded in scaling the height upon which the fortress stood, 
and was made “ chief and captain ” of the army of all Israel, -of which Da- 
vid was now king. 2 Sam. v, 6-10 ; 1 Chron. xi, 5-8. He immediately un- 
dertook. in conjunction with David, the fortification of the city. 2 Sam. 
v, 9 ; 1 Chron. xi, 8. He had a chief armor-bearer of his own, Naharai, a 
Beerothite, (2 Sam. xxiii, 37 ; 1 Chron. xi, 39,) and ten attendants to carry 
his equipment and baggage. 2 Sam. xviii, 15. He had the charge of giving 
the signal by trumpet for advance or retreat. 2 Sam. xviii, 16. He was 
called by the almost regal title of “Lord,” (2 Sam. xi, 11,) “the prince of 
the king’s army.” 1 Chron. xxvii, 34. His usual residence was in Jerusa- 
lem, but he had a house and property, with barley-fields adjoining, in the 
country, (2 Sam. xiv, 30,) in the “ wilderness,” (1 Kings ii, 34,) probably on 
the north-east of Jerusalem, (compare 1 Sam. xiii, 18; Josh, viii, 15, 20,) 
near an ancient sanctuary, called from its nomadic village “ Baalhazor,” 
(2 Sam. xiii, 23 ; compare with xiv, 30,) where there were extensive sheep- 
walks. (4) Military Achievements. These were conducted by him in 
person, and may be divided into three campaigns : (a) That against the al- 
lied forces of Syria and Ammon. Joab attacked and defeated the Syrians, 
while his brother did the same for the Ammonites. The Syrians rallied 
with their kindred beyond the Euphrates, and were finally routed by David 
himself. 2 Sam. x, 1, sq. (b) The second was against Edom. The decisive 
victory was gained by David himself in the “ valley of salt,” and celebrated 
by a triumphal monument. 2 Sam. viii, 13. But Joab had the charge of 
carrying out the victory, and remained for six months, extirpating the male 
population, whom he then buried in the tombs of Petra. 1 Kings xi, 15, 16. 
(c) The third was against the Ammonites. They were again left to Joab. 
2 Sam. x, 7-19. At the siege of Rabbah the ark was sent with him, and 
the whole army was encamped in booths or huts round the beleaguered 

19 


296 


JOAB. 



city. 2 Sam. xi, 1, 11. After a sortie of the inhabitants, which caused 
some loss to the Jewish army, Joab took the lower city on the river, and 
then sent to urge David to come and take the citadel, that the glory of the 
capture might pertain to the king. 2 Sam. xii, 26-28. (5) Services to Da- 

vid. Joab served David faithfully, both in political and private relations, 
and showed himself to be truly devoted to his interests, (a) Jacob and 
Uriah. During the Ammonite war Joab lent himself to the king’s passion, 
and secured the death of Uriah the Hittite. 2 Sam. xi, 1-25. B. C. 1035. 
( b ) Joab and Absalom. When Absalom accomplished the death of Amnon 
Joab effected his return by means of the widow of Tekoah ; and when he 
revolted, Joab’s former intimacy with the prince did not impair his fidelity 


to the king. He followed him beyond the Jordan, and in the final battle of 
Ephraim slew Absalom in spite of David’s injunction to spare him, and 
-when no one else had courage to act so decisive a part. 2 Sam. xviii, 2, 1 1- 
15. B. C. 1023. (c) When David resolved to number the people Joab 
endeavored to dissuade him from his purpose, and, unsuccessful in this, per- 
formed the task so tardily as to afford the king an opportunity of reconsid- 
ering the matter. 2 Sam. xxiv, 1-4. (6) Murder of Amasa. David, to 

conciliate the powerful party which had supported Absalom, offered the 
command of the army to Amasa. Joab was grievously offended by this 
act of the king, and when Amasa tarried longer than the time allowed him 


RUINS OF RABBAH. 



JOAH— JOANNA. 


297 


to assemble his forces Joab had an opportunity of displaying his superior 
resources. Abishai was ordered to pursue the revolting Sheba, (perhaps 
with Joab in command, Keil and Delitzscb,) and when Amasa came up to 
meet them at Gibeon lie was treacherously slain by Joab. 2 Sam. xx, 4-13. 
(7) Joins Adonijah. Shortly before the death of David a demonstration 
was made in favor of his eldest surviving son, Adonijah, and Joab joined his 
party. The prompt measures taken rendered Adonijah’s demonstration 
abortive. 1 Kings i, 7, 15, sq. B. C. 1015. (8) Death. Hearing of the 

death of Adonijah, Joab fled for refuge to the altar. Solomon, hearing of 
this, sent Benaiah to put him to death ; and as he refused to come forth, 
Benaiah slew him. His body was buried in the wilderness of Judah. 
1 Kings ii, 5, 28-34. B. C. about 1014. 

3. Character. Joab was a man of great military prowess, valiant, and 
capable. He was revengeful, and not above treachery in order to gratify 
his vengeance. While treating his king with but little ceremony, he was, 
nevertheless, truly devoted to his interests. His principles did not prevent 
him from serving his master’s vices as well as his virtues. Altogether he 
appears in history as one of the most accomplished and unscrupulous war- 
riors that Israel ever produced. 

2. In 1 Chron. ii, 54, there is mention of “ Ataroth, the house of Joab.” 
What Joab is meant is uncertain, but it is supposed to refer to No. 1. 

3. The son of Seraiah, (son of Kenaz,) a Judaite and progenitor of the 
inhabitants of Charashim, or craftsmen. 1 Chron. iv, 14. 

4. The head of a family whose descendants, with those of Jeshua, to the 
number of 2,812, (Ezra ii, 6,) or 2,818, (Nell, vii, 11.) It is not certain 
whether Jeshua and Joab were sons of Pahath-Moab, or whether, in the 
registration of those returned, the descendants of Jeshua and Joab were 
represented by the sons of Pahath-Moab. The Joab mentioned in Ezra viii, 
9, is probably the same person. B. C. 445. 

JO'AH, (Heb. Yoach ', |"INV, Jehovah his brother.) 

1. Son of Asaph and “ recorder” of King Hezekiah, and one of the mes- 
sengers sent to receive the insulting message of Rabshakeh. 2 Kings xviii, 
18, 26, 37 ; Isa. xxxvi, 3, 22. B. C. about 710. 

2. A Levite of the family of Gershom, son of Zimnah and father of Iddo. 
1 Chron. vi, 21. He is probably the same person who, with his son Eden, 
assisted Hezekiah in the reformation of the temple worship. 2 Chron. xxix, 
12. B. C. 726. He is identified witli Ethan, mentioned in 1 Chron. vi, 42. 

3. The third son of Obed-edom, one of the porters for the tabernacle in 
the time of David. 1 Chron. xxvi, 4. B. C. about 1015. 

4. Son of Joaliaz, and recorder for King Josiah. He was_ appointed 
one of the superintendents of the temple repairs. 2 Chron. xxxiv, 8. B. C. 
624. 

JO'AHAZ, (Heb. Yoachaz', TI"INV, whom Jehovah holds,) the father of 

Joali, which latter was recorder in the reign of Josiah. 2 Chron. xxxiv, 8. 
B. C. before 624. 

JOAN'NA. 

1. (luavvdc, probably ='ludvvijc 1 John.) The son of Rhesa and grand- 
son of Zerubbabel, in the lineage of Christ. Luke iii. 27. 


298 


JOASH — JOB. 


2. ('ludvva, probably feminine of ’luavvijc, John.) The wife of Chuza, the 
steward of Herod Agrippa. Luke viii, 3. She, with other women, had been 
cured of grievous diseases by the Saviour, or received material benefits from 
him, and ministered to him and h's disciples. She was also one of the 
women to whom Christ appeared after the resurrection. Luke xxiv, 10. 
(Kitto.) 

JO 'ASH, (Heb. Yo'dsh ', given by Jehovah.) 

1. The father of Gideon, who, although himself an idolater, ingeniously 
screened his son from those desiring to avenge his overthrow of the altar 
of Baal. Judg. vi, 11, 29-31; vii, 14; viii, 13, 29. He was buried in Oph- 
rah, where he lived. Judg. viii, 29-32. B. C. about 1249. 

2. A person who was ordered by King Ahab to imprison Micaiah the 
prophet for denouncing the allied expedition against Ramoth-gilead. 
1 Kings xxii, 26 ; 2 Chrou. xviii, 25. B. C. 897. In both passages he is 
styled “ the king’s son,” which is usually taken literally. Some, however, 
suggest that the title may merely indicate a youth of princely stock ; others, 
that Melek, translated king , is a proper name. 

3. King of Judah. 2 Kings xi, 2 ; xii, 19, 20 ; xiii, 1, 10 ; xiv, 1, 3, 17, 
23; 1 Chron. iii, 11; 2 Chron. xxii, 11; xxiv, 1, 2, 4, 22, 24; xxv, 23, 25. 
See Jehoash, 1. 

4. King of Israel. 2 Kings xiii, 9, 12, 13, 14, 25 ; xiv, 1, 23, 27 ; 2 Chron. 
xxv, 17, 18, 21, 23, 25 ; Hos. i, 1 ; Amos i, 1. See Jehoash, 2. 

5. A descendant of Shelali. son of Judah, mentioned among those “who 
had the dominion in Moab.” I Chron. iv, 22. The Hebrew tradition, quoted 
by Jerome and Jarchi, applies it to Mahlon, the son of Elimelech, who mar- 
ried a Moabitess. 

6. A son of Shemah, (or Hasmath,) the Gibeathite, who, with his brother 
Ahiezer and other “ mighty men,” joined David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 3. 
B. C. about 1058. 

JO' ASH, (Heb. to whom Jehovah hastens.) 

1. One of the “sons” (descendants) of Becher, son of Benjamin, and a 
chieftain of his family. 1 Chron. vii, 8. B. C. probably about 1017. 

2. The person having charge of the “ cellars of oil” under David and Sol- 
omon. 1 Chron. xxvii, 28. B. C. 1017. 

JO'ATHAM=:Jotham the son of Uzziah. Matt, i, 9. 

JOB, (Heb. Yob, 2V, returning.) the third-named of the sons of Issacliar, 
(Gen. xlvi, 13,) called Jashub in Num. xxvi, 24; 1 Chron. vii, 1. 

JOB, (Heb. Iyob', persecuted ,) the hero of the book bearing his name. 

1. Personal History. Job was a chieftain of the land of Uz, (probably 
a district of northern Arabia,) of great wealth and high rank. (1) His 
Affliction. Upon a certain occasion when he, with others, was worshiping 
God, Satan accused Job of selfishness in his piety: “Doth Job fear God 
for naught ? ” Job. i, 9. Satan was allowed to exert his baleful power upon 
Job’s possessions, and flocks, herds, and children were swept away. The 
patriarch maintained his integrity, and ‘ in all this sinned not, nor charged 
God foolishly.” (2) Second Affliction. Again Satan appeared against Job, 
declaring that were he assailed in his person he would yield up his integ- 


JOB. 


nty, whereupon he was allowed to afflict the body of Job, and smote him 
with a grievous disease. Job’s wife breaks down under the trial, and coun- 
sels him “ to curse God and die.” Job remains steadfast, and answers her 
with, “ What 1 shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we 
not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.” Chap, ii, 1-10. 
In this sad state he is found by Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who had come 
to condole with him. They seem to have been overpowered by the sight of 
his wretchedness, and sat seven days and nights without uttering a word. 
Chap, ii, 11-13. Job then breaks the silence by cursing the day of his 
birth, and declares that there is no hope for the end of his misery but 
in death. Chap. iii. (3) Discussion. This act of Job led to a discussion 
which forms the body of the book, and may be analyzed thus : 1. The 
Entanglement. — First Discussion. Eliphaz’s first speech, chaps, iv, v ; 
Job’s answer, chaps, vi, vii; Bildad’s first speech, chap, viii; Job’s answer, 
chaps, ix, x; Zophar’s first speech, chap, xi ; Job’s answer, chaps, xii-xiv. 
The results of the first discussion were, on the part of Job’s friends, 1. A 
theory of the divine government resting upon an exact and uniform correla- 
tion between sin and punishment. 2. Afflictions are always penal, leading 
to correction and amendment of life when the sufferer repents and turns to 
God, and in his destruction if he does not submit. 3. Suffering always 
proves the commission of some special sin, while the conduct of the sufferer 
indicates the true internal relation between him and God. Ou the part of 
Job, 1. A denial of sin as inferred by his opponents, and a denial that 
punishment proves the commission of sin ; that prosperity and adversity are 
not always commensurate with man’s deserts ; that in the government of 
Providence all events and results are absolutely in God’s hands, and suppli- 
cation that God would give him a fair and open trial ; prayer for death and 
a future justification. Second Discussion. Eliphaz’s second speech, chap, 
xv ; Job’s answer, chaps, xvi, xvii; Bildad’s second speech, chap, xviii; 
Job's answer, chap, xix ; Zophar’s second speech, chap, xx ; Job’s answer, 
chap. xxi. In the second discussion Job’s friends endeavor to uphold their 
theory of vindictive justice; and in order to do so strive to overthrow Job's 
innocence. Eliphaz accuses Job of impiety, blasphemy, and rebellion against 
God, and declares Job to have -deserved every calamity that had befallen 
him. Chap. xv. Bildad (chap, xviii) takes up this suggestion of ungodli- 
ness, and, enlarging upon the inevitable results of impiety, concludes that 
Job’s calamities are peculiarly the penalties due to one who is without God. 
Zophar (chap, xx) declares that a sinner’s sufferings must needs be pro- 
portioned to his former enjoyments, and his losses to his former gains. In 
answer Job recognizes the hand of God in his afflictions, (chap, xvi, 7-16 ; 
xix. 6-20,) but denies his ungodliness ; asserts that he has never forsaken 
his Maker, nor ceased to pray. He argues that since in this life the right- 
eous are not saved from evil, it follows that their ways are watched and 
their sufferings recorded with a view to future justice. He declares his 
conviction that God will personally manifest himself as his avenger. Chap, 
xix, 25-27. He nevertheless recognizes the fact that ungodly men fre- 
quently enjoy great and unbroken prosperity, and concludes that an impen- 
etrable veil hangs over the temporal dispensations of God. Chap. xxi. 
Third Discussion. Eliphaz’s third speech, chap, xxii ; Job’s answer, chaps, 
xxiii, xxiv; Bildad’s third speech, chap, xxv ; Job’s answer, chaps, xxvi- 
xxxi. In the third discussion Eliphaz raises a new point, namely, that the 


800 


JOB. 

station in wliich Job was formerly placed presented temptations to certain 
crimes, and that the punishments he undergoes are precisely such as might 
be expected had those crimes been committed ; hence he infers they actu- 
ally were committed. Bildad adds a few solemn words on the incompre- 
hensible majesty of God and the nothingness of man, while Eliphaz seems 
to have been put to silence. Job does not alter his position, nor, properly 
speaking, adduce any new argument, but re-states with force and eloquence 
the chief points which he regards as established. Chap. xxvi. All creation 
is confounded by the majesty and might of God, and man is baffled in the 
attempt to comprehend his ways. He then (chap, xxvii) describes the ruin 
that, as a rule, overtakes the hypocrite, and which he would deserve were 
he to dissemble the truth ; admits what is true in his opponents’ arguments, 
and corrects his hasty and unguarded statements. In chap, xxviii he gives 
a grand description of wisdom, and states that true human wisdom consists 
in the fear of the Lord and in turning from evil. Then follows (chaps, 
xxix-xxxi) a beautiful description of his former life contrasted with his 
present misery, together with a vindication of his character from all the 
charges and insinuations of his opponents. 2. The Unravelment. Eli- 
hu’s four speeches to Job, chaps, xxxii-xxxvii ; Jehovah’s address to Job, 
chaps, xxxviii-xl, 2 ; Job’s first reply, chap, xl, 3-5 ; Jehovah’s second ad- 
dress to Job, chaps, xl, 6-xli ; Job’s second reply, chap, xlii, 1-6. Eliliu 
shows that Job’s friends had accused him upon false or insufficient grounds, 
and had failed to convict him or to vindicate God’s justice. Job had as- 
sumed his entire innocence, and had arraigned God’s justice. Chap, xxxiii, 
9-11. These errors arose from their overlooking the main object of all 
suffering, that God by chastisement warns man, teaches him self-knowledge 
and humility, thus preparing him to seek pardon, renewal of life, and res- 
toration. Chap, xxxiii, 9-26. Again, God being the source of justice, any 
charge of injustice is a contradiction of terms. God sees all things and 
controls all events, and that for the purpose of bringing righteousness to 
light. Chap, xxxiv, 10-30. Man having no claim upon God, what he re- 
ceives is of grace. Chap, xxxv, 6-9. Unanswered prayer (ver. 9) is owing 
to the fact that man prays in a proud and insolent spirit, (vers. 12, 13,) and 
Job is urged to self-examination. Elihu proceeds (chap, xxxvi) to show 
that God’s almightiness is not associated with any contempt or neglect of 
his creatures, an error which had led Job into great danger. Ver. 12 ; comp. 
18. Reference is made to the manifestations of goodness as well as great- 
ness in creation. Jehovah now speaks, and, in language of incomparable 
grandeur, he reproves and silences the murmurs of Job ; he illustrates his 
absolute power by a marvelously beautiful and comprehensive survey of 
creation, and his all-embracing providence by reference to the phenomena 
of the animal kingdom. Job confesses his inability to comprehend, and 
therefore to answer, his Maker. Chap, xl, 3, 4. In his second address Je- 
hovah proves that a charge of injustice against God assumes that the ac- 
cuser is more competent than he to rule the universe ; while in fact he can- 
not subdue the monsters of the irrational creation. Job responds by 
admitting the power and wisdom of God ; expresses contrition for the bit- 
terness and arrogance which had characterized some portion of his com- 
plaints. His friends are rebuked by God for untruth, which, inasmuch as 
it was not willful, but proceeded from a real but narrow-minded conviction 
of the divine justice, was forgiven through the intercession of Job. (4) Job’s 


JOBAB— jOCflEBED. 


303r 


Restoration. “ The Lord turned the captivity of Job;” his friends came to 
him, each bringing a piece of money and an ear-ring of gold. Job became 
very prosperous, so that his latter end was “ more than his beginning his 
sheep numbered 14,000, his camels 6,000, his oxen 1,000 yoke, and 1,000 
she asses. He had also seven sons and three daughters. He lived after 
this one hundred and forty years. 

2. Character. The character of Job is concisely expressed by Jehovah : 
“ Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the 
earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and eschevveth 
evil? ” And during the trial, his patience during affliction, his unmurmuring 
submission to God, his unwavering trust in divine providence, are strikingly 
manifested. 

Difficulties. — (1) Job a real person. Three views as to the historical nature of 
the book of Job. (1) That it contains an entirely true history; that not only the per- 
sons and events which it describes are real, but that the very words of the speak- 
ers are recorded. (2) That it is entirely an imaginary narrative. (3) That the book 
is founded on a true history, and has been recast, modified, and enlarged by the au- 
thor. The first vieyv is now abandoned by nearly all expositors. In answer to the 
second it may be said that it seems “ incompatible with any idea of inspiration to 
assume that a narrative, certainly not allegorical, should be a mere Action, and ir- 
reverent to suppose that the Almighty would be introduced as a speaker iu an im- 
aginary colloquy.” The third theory was suggested by Luther, who says : “ I look 
upon the book of Job as a true history, but that an ingenious, pious, and learned man 
brought it into its present form.” We conclude that Job really existed, for Ezekiel 
(chap, xiv, 14, 20) speaks of him as a man, in connection witn Noah and Daniel ; 
James (chap, v, 11) refers to him as an example of patience ; there is a singular 
air of reality in the whole narrative. (2) Authorship. The traditionary view of 
the authorship of the book of Job ascribes it to Moses. Tne arguments in its favor 
are, however, too many and elaborate to be introduced here. Dr. Strong says, 

( Cyclopaedia , s. v. :) ” Our conclusion is that, as a recitative poem in a rudiment- 
ary form, it was originally framed in Job’3 age, and that in its Arabic dress it was 
gathered by Moses from the lips of the Midiamtish bards during his residence 
among them ; that it was Arst composed by him in the Hebrew language, but not 
reduced to its present complete form till considerably later, perhaps by Solomon.” 
Delitzsch attributes the authorship of the book to Solomon. (Commentary on Job , 
Introduction.) (3) Job’s disease. This disease was probably elephantiasis, (so 
called because the limbs become jointless lumps like elephants’ legs.) The disease 
begins with the rising of tubercular boils, and at length resembles a cancer 
spreading itself over the whole body, by which the body is so affected that some 
of the limbs fall completely away. Scraping with a potsherd will not only relieve 
the intolerable itching of the skin, but also remove the matter. (Delitzsch, Com- 
mentary on Job, ii, 7 ; see Kitto, Smith.) 

JO'BAB, (Heb. Yobab', Q 3 i\ desert.) 

1. The last in order of the sons of Joktan. Gen. x, 29 ; 1 Chron. i, 23. 
B. C. after 2247. 

2. Son of Zerah of Bozrali, and one of the “ kings ” of Edom. Gen. xxxvi, 
33, 34 ; 1 Chron. i, 44, 45. B. C. probably some time before 1491. 

3. The king of Madon, a royal city of the Canaanites. Assisting Jabin, 
king of Ilazor, against Joshua, they were both by him overcome. Josh, xi, 1. 
B. C. 1450. 

4. A Benjamite, and the first-named of the sons of Shaharaim by his wife 
Ilodesli. 1 Chron. viii, 9. 

5. One of the “sons” (probably descendants) of Elpaal, a chief of Ben- 
jamin at Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 18. B. C. probably about 588. 

JOCH'EBED, (Heb. Yoke'bed , 1231% Jehovah her glory.) the wife of 
Amram, and mother of Miriam, Aaron, and Moses. Num. xxvi, 59. B. C. 


302 


JOED — JOEL. 


1571. In Exod. vi, 20, it is expressly declared that she was the sister of* 
Amram’s father, and, consequently, her husband’s aunt. It was contrary 
to the law for persons thus related to marry, and several attempts have 
been made to prove a more distant relationship. Kitto says: “The fact 
seems to be that where this marriage was contracted there was no law for- 
bidding such alliances, but they must iu any case have been unusual, 
although not forbidden ; and this, with the writer’s knowledge that they 
were subsequently interdicted, sufficiently accounts for this one being so 
pointedly mentioned.” So Keil and Delitzsch, ( Commentary , in loco.) 

JO'ED, (Heb. Yoed', “iyy, Jehovah his witness ,) the son of Pedaiah, and 

grandfather of Sallu, which last was one of the Benjamites chosen to dwell 
in Jerusalem after the captivity. Neh. xi, 7. B. C. before 536. 

JO'EL, (Heb. Yoel', Jehovah his God.) 

1. The eldest of the two sons of Samuel, appointed by him as judges in 
Beer-sheba. By the taking of bribes and perversion of judgment they led 
to the popular desire for a monarchy. 1 Sam. viii, 2. B. C. about 1100. In 
1 Chron. vi, 28, by a clerical error he is called Yashni. He is named as 
the father of Heman, the Levitical singer. 1 Chron. vi, 33; xv, 17. 

2. A descendant of Simeon, one of those whose families emigrated to the 
valley of Gedor. 1 Chron. iv, 35. B. C. about 715. 

3. A descendant of Reuben, but bj- what line or in what degree of prox- 
imity is uncertain. 1 Chron. v, 4, 8. 

4. A chief of the Gadites resident in Bashan. 1 Chron. v, 12. B. C. per- 
haps about 782. 

5. A Koliathite Levite, son of Azariah, and father of Elkanah. 1 Chron. 
vi, 36. He is probably the Joel who assisted Hezekiah in his restoration of 
the temple services. 2 Chron. xxix, 12. B. C. 726. 

6. The third-named of the four sons of Izrahiah, a chieftain of the tribe 
of Issachar in the time of David. 1 Chron. vii, 3. B. C. about 1017. 

7. Brother of Nathan, and one of David’s mighty men. 1 Chron. xi, 38. 
B. C. 1047. He is called “ Igal the son of Nathan” in 2 Sam. xxiii, 36. 
Kennicott decides in favor of the former as most likely to be the genuine 
text. ( Dissertations , pp. 212-214.) 

8. A Levite, chief of the family of Gershom, who, at the head of 130, was 
appointed by David to assist in removing the ark. 1 Chron. xv, 7, 11. B. C. 
ab 'lit 1042. He is probably the same with the third of the “sons ” of Laa- 
dan, (1 Chron. xxiii, 8,) and also with the son of Jehiel, who was one of 
the keepers of “ treasures of the dedicated things.” 1 Chron. xxvi, 22. 
(Keil.) 

9. Son of Pedaiah, and chief, in the time of David, of the half-tribe of 
Manasseh west. 1 Chron. xxvii, 20. B. C. about 1015. 

10. One of the “sons” of Nebo, who put away his Gentile wife after the 
return from Babylon. Ezra x, 43. B. C. 456. 

11. SonofZichri, and ‘ overseer” of the Benjamites resident at Jerusa- 
lem after the captivity. Neh. xi, 9. B. C. about 636. 

12. Son of Pethuel, and second of the twelve minor prophets. Joel i. 1. 
Nothing is known of his life, and all that can be inferred with any certainly 
from his writings is that he lived in Judah, and probably prophesied in Je- 
rusalem. The date of his ministry is also a disputed point, some making 


JOELAH— JOHANAN. 


803 


liim contemporary with Amos and Isaiah, during the reign of Uzziah, B. C. 
about 800 ; others (Keil, Gommenta/ry) assign him to the first thirty years of 
Jehoash. B. C. 877-847. 

JOE'LAH, (Heb. Yo'elah r6x}JV>)) one of the two sons of Jeroham of 
* T 

Gedor who joined David at Ziklag. 1 Ohron. xii, 7. B. C. about 1058. 

JOE'ZER, (Heb. Yoe'zer, “tfyj’i, Jehovah his help,) one of the Korhites 

who united themselves to David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 6. B. C. about 
1058. 

JOG'LI, (Heb. Yogli', exiled ,) the father of Bukki, which latter was 

appointed, from the tribe of Dan, on the commission for dividing the land 
of Canaan. Hum. xxxiv, 22. B. 0. 1452. 

JO'HA, (Heb. Yocha', probably Jehovah revives.) 

1. One of the sons of Beriah the Benjamite, and a chief of his tribe resi- 
dent at Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 16. B. C. perhaps about 588. 

2. A Tizite who, with his brother Jediael, was one of David’s mighty 
men. 1 Chron. xi, 45. B. C. 1047. 

JOHA'NAN, (Heb. Yochanan', pni\ contracted form of Jehohanan, 
God-given . ) 

1. The son of Careah, (Kareah,) one of the Jewish chiefs who rallied 
around Gedaliah on his appointment as governor. 2 Kings xxv, 23 ; Jer. xl, 
8. He also warned the governor of the purpose of Ishmael to assassinate 
him, and offered to slay Ishrnael, but Gedaliah refused to listen to his ad- 
vice. Jer. xl, 13-16. After the murder of Gedaliah Johanan led in the pur- 
suit of the assassin and rescued the people he had taken captive. Jer. xii, 
11-16. He then consulted with Jeremiah as to what course the remnant of 
the people should pursue, but when told by the prophet to remain in the 
land he and his associates refused, and retired (taking Jeremiah with them) 
to Tahpanhes, in Egypt. Jer. xliii, 1-7. From this time we lose sight of him 
and his fellow-captains, and they, doubtless, shared the threatened punish- 
ment. Ver. 11, sq. B. C. 588. 

2. The eldest son of Josiah, king of Judah. 1 Chron. iii, 15. He prob- 
ably died early, as Scripture makes no further mention of him. B. C. after 
641. 

3. The fifth son of Elioenai, one of the descendants of Zerubbabel. 
1 Chron. iii, 24. B. C. probably after 400. He is identified by some with 
Nahum, mentioned (Luke iii, 25) among the ancestry of Christ. 

4. Son of Azariah and father of Azariah, high-priests, (1 Chron. vi, 9, 10,) 
and by some thought to have been the same with Jehoiada. 2 Chron. 
xxiv, 15. 

5. One of the mighty men who joined David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 4. 
B. C. about 1058. He was probably a Benjamite. 

6. The eighth-named of the Gadite warriors Who rallied to the support of 
David in the hold in the wilderness. 1 Chron. xii, 12. B. C. about 1061. 

7. The father of Azariah, which latter insisted upon sending home the 
captives taken from Judah. 2 Chron. xxviii, 12. B. C. 741. 

8. The son of Hakkatan, of the “ sons ” of Azgad, who returned, with 110 
males, from Babylon with Ezra. Ezra viii, 12. B. C. about 457, 


304 


JOHN. 


9. A priest, the “ son ” of Eliashib, into whose chamber Ezra retired t<3 
mourn over the marrying of Gentile wives by the Jews. Ezra x, 6. He is 
identilied with the Johanan mentioned in Neh. xii, 22, 23. 

10. The son of Tobiah the Ammonite, who married the daughter of 
Mesliullam, the priest. Neh. vi, 18. B. C. 445. 

JOHN, ('ludwr/c, the Greek form of Jehohanan, whom, Jehovah gives.) 

1. John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus Christ. 

1. Family. John was of the priestly race by both of his parents, his 
father, Zacharias, being a priest of the course of Abia, or Abijah, (1 Chron. 
xxiv, 10,) and his mother, Elizabeth, was “ of the daughters of Aaron.” 
Luke i, 5. His birth — through the miraculous interposition of almighty 
power — was foretold b} r an angel sent from God, who at the same time as- 
signed to him the name of John. He was born in the hill country (whither 
his mother had gone, probably, for the sake of privacy) six months before 
the birth of our Lord. Luke i. 

2. Personal History. (1) Early Life. On the eighth day he was 

brought to be circumcised, and friends of his parents proposed to call him 
Zacharias, after his father. But his mother required that he should be 
called John, a decision which his father, still speechless, confirmed by writ- 
ing on a tablet. He was set apart as a Nazarite, according to the angelic 
injunction. Luke i, 15 ; comp. Num. vi, 1-21. All that we know of the pe- 
riod between this time and the beginning of his ministry is contained in a 
single verse : “ The child grew and waxed strong in spirit, and w r as in the 
deserts till the day of his showing unto Israel.” Luke i, 80. (2) Begin- 

ning of Ministry. At length, in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius 
Caesar, John began to preach, and attracted to himself a great multitude 

^from ‘‘Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan.” 

** Matt, iii, 5. To them he proclaimed the near approach of “ the kingdom of 
heaven,” and administered the rite of baptism “ unto repentance.” His 
birth, his hard, ascetic life, the general expectation that some great one was 
about to appear, served to attract this great multitude, for “ John did no 
miracle.” John x, 41. (3) Meeting with Jesus. Before long Jesus pre- 

sented himself to John, to receive baptism at his hand, which John de- 
clined to administer, until our Lord’s declaration that “ Thus it becometli 
us to fulfill all righteousness.” Matt, iii, 15. (4) Subsequent Ministry. 

With the baptism of Jesus John’s more especial office ceased. The king had 
come, and there was little further need of the herald. We learn that John 
and his disciples continued to baptize some time after our Lord entered upon 
his ministry. See John iii, 23; iv, 1. He also instructed his disciples in 
certain moral and religious duties, as fasting (Matt, ix, 14 ; Luke v, 33) and 
prayer. Luke xi, 1. We learn also that he still continued to be a witness 
to Jesus, so confidently pointing him out as the Lamb of God that two of 
his own disciples were led to accept Jesus as the true Messiah, and became 
his followers. John i, 29, sq. ; see also vers. 35-37. (5) Imprisonment and 

Death. Shortly after his public ministry was brought violently to a close. 
Herod Antipas had taken Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife ; and when 
John reproved him for this and other sins, (Luke iii, 19,) Herod cast him 
in prison, the castle of Machserus, on the eastern shore of the Dead Sea. 
While confined there he sent two of his disciples with the inquiry, “Art 
thou he that should come ? ” This was doubtless done in order to assist 
his disciples in transferring their allegiance to Jesus, as Jesus himself born 


John, 


305 


testimony to the steadfastness of John. Luke vii, 19-2& Herodias, embit- 
tered against John, determined upon his death, but was prevented by Her- 
od’s conviction that John was a just man (Mark vi, 20) and his fear of the 
people. Matt, xiv, 5. But at last her opportunity arrived, and taking ad- 
vantage of a promise given by Herod to her daughter, Herodias bade her 
order the head of John the Baptist. The king reluctantly complied, and 
sent an executioner who beheaded him in the prison. His disciples, when 
they heard of his death, buried his body and went and told the Lord. Matt, 
xiv, 3-12; Mark vi, 17-29. 

3. Character. The nature of John the Baptist was full of impetuosity 
and lire — a very Elijah. His life, however, was characterized by the graces 
of self-denial, humility, and holy courage. His abstinence was so great that 
some thought him possessed, and said, “ He hath a devil.” In his humility 
he declined the honors which an admiring multitude almost forced upon 
him, and declared himself to be no one — a voice merely — calling upon the 
people to prepare for the reception of the One whose shoe-latchet he was 
not worthy to unloose. And when that One came he recommended his own 
disciples to attach themselves to him, furnishing the world an example of 
gracefully accepting the fact, “ He must increase, but I must decrease.” 
For his courage in speaking the truth he went a willing victim to prison and 
to death. 

Difficulties.— John’s acquaintance with Jesus. Much discussion has arisen 
concerning the apparent contradiction in Matt, iii, 13, 14, and John i, 31, 33. In 
the former John evidently recognized Jesus, while in the latter he says, “ I knew 
him not.” The truth seems to be that John knew Jesus, but was not certain of 
his Messiahship. It was necessary for him, before asserting positively that Jesus 
was the Christ, to have undoubted testimony of the fact. This was given him in 
the descent of the Holy Ghost in the form of a dove, as John himself declares. 
John i, 33. 

2. John the apostle. The son of Zebedee and Salome, whom tradition 
makes the daughter of Joseph by his lirst wife, and, consequently, the half 
sister to our Lord. (Smith, New Testament History.) 

1 . Personal History. (1) Early Life. John was probably the younger 
brother of James, (Matt, iv, 21,) and lived in Bethsaida. Luke v, 10; John 
i, 44. The mention of the “hired servants,” (Mark i, 20,) of his mother’s 
“ substance,” (Luke viii, 3,) of “ his own home,” (John xix, 27,) as also his 
acquaintance with Caiaphas the high-priest, (John xviii, 15,) implies a position 
of at least considerable influence and means. His mother, who manifested 
an earnest desire for the welfare of her sons, (Matt, xx, 20.) probably early 
instructed him in religious things ; and his trade of fisherman was adapted 
to holy meditation, since it would lead him frequently to pass whole nights 
in stillness upon the water. (2) Introduction to Jesus. The incident re- 
corded in John i, 35-39, would seem to indicate that John had become a 
disciple of John the Baptist. His mention of Andrew only by name is con- 
sistent with his usual manner of naming himself as “ that other disciple,” 
“ the disciple whom Je3us loved.” One day, about the hour of evening 
sacrifice, John Baptist pointed to Jesus walking by, and said, “ Behold the 
Lamb of God 1 ” His two disciples immediately followed Jesus, and inquired 
where he dwelt. To this question the Master replied, “ Come and see ; ” 
and they “ abode with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour.” 
John was probably among the disciples who followed their new teacher to 
Galilee, (John i, 43,) who were with him at the marriage feast of Cana, 


306 


JoHtf. 


(John ii, 2,) journeyed with him to Capernaum, and thence to Jerusalem, 
(John ii, 12, 23,) and came back through Samaria. John iv, 5. He then re- 
turned to his former occupation. (3) As Apostle. At last the time came 
when the disciples are to enter into closer relation to Jesus, and become his 
apostles. John, with liis brother James, Simon, and Andrew, were called 
at the same time, after the miracle of the miraculous di aught of fishes. 
Mark i, 19, 20 ; Luke v, 10. John, with Peter and James, was distinguished 
above the other apostles, entering more fully into the Master’s feelings and 
plans, and receiving in return his confidence and love. Mention is made 
of John at the restoration of Peter’s mother-in-law, (Mark i, 29-31 ;) at the 
ordination of the twelve apostles, (Mark iii, 17,) where he and his brother 
received from Jesus the surname Boanerges ; at the raising of Jairus’s daugh- 
ter, (Mark v. 35-37 ; Luke viii, 51;) at the transfigurat on, (Matt, xvii, 1 ; 
Mark ix. 2; Luke ix, 28;) rebuking one who cast out devils in the Lord’s 
name, because he was not one of their company, (Luke ix, 49 ;) seeking to call 
down fire from heaven upon a village of the Samaritans, (Luke ix,54:) join- 
ing with his mother and James in asking for the highest places in the kingdom 
of the Master, (Matt.xx, 20-28 ; Mark x, 35-45 ;) with Jesus upon the Mount 
of Olives when he foretold the destruction of Jerusalem, (Mark xiii, 3;) sent by 
the Master to prepare, with Peter, the passover, (Luke xxii, 8;) asking Jesus, at 
the supper, who would betray him, (John xiii, 23—26 ;) with Peter and James 
in Gethsemane. Mark xiv, 32, 33. When the betrayal is accomplished Peter 
and John follow afar off, and, through the personal acquaintance between 
the latter and Caiaphas, gain admittance into the palace, (John xviii, 15, 16;) 
at the crucifixion John was appointed bv Jesus to care for Mary as a 
son. John xix, 26, 27. (4) Friendship for Peter. Notwithstanding the 

denial of Peter he and John continued friends, and are afterward often 
mentioned together. To them Mary Magdalene first runs with the tidings 
of the emptied sepulcher, (John xx, 2;) they are the first to hasten thither. 
John xx, 4-8. For at least eight days they remain in Jerusalem, (John xx, 
26,) alter which we find them on the Sea of Galilee pursuing their old call- 
ing. John xxi, 1. Joi n is the first to recognize his risen Lord; Peter the 
first to plunge into the water and swim toward the shore where he stood. 
John xxi, 7. The affection and anxiety of Peter for John is shown in his 
question put to the Master, “Lord, and what shall this man do?” John xxi, 
21. (5) History of the Acts. The same union continues between Peter and 

John. Together they wimess the ascension, share in the election of Mat- 
thias and the pentecostal baptism. Together they enter the temple as 
worshipers, (Acts iii, 1,) are imprisoned, and protest against the threats of 
the Sanhedrin. Acts iv, 3-22. They were also sent together to preach to 
the Samaritans. Acts viii, 14. John and the rest of the apostles remained 
at t heir post despite the persecution of Saul. Acts viii, 1. He did not meet 
Paul when the latter came back to Jerusalem as a convert, (Gal. i, 19 ;) but 
this, of course, does not make the inference necessary that lie had left Je- 
rusalem. During the persecution under Herod Agrippa he lost his brother 
by martyrdom, (Acts xii, 2,) while his friend Peter sought safety in flight. 
Acts xii, 18, 19. Fifteen years after Paul’s first visit he was still at Jerusalem, 
(Conybeare and Howson, Life and Epistles ,) one of the “ pillars ” of the Church, 
and took part in settling the controversy between the Jewish and Gentile 
Christians. Acts xv, 6, 13 ; Gal. ii, 9. Of the work of the apostle during this 
period we have hardly the slightest trace. (6) After his Departure "from 


JOHN. 


307 


Jerusalem. John probably remained in Judea till the death of Mary re- 
leased him from his trust. When this took place we can only conjecture. 
There are no signs of his being at Jerusalem at the time of St. Paul's last 
visit. Acts xxi. “ Assuming the authorship of the epistles and Revelation 
to be his, the facts which the New Testament writings assert or imply are : 
(1) That, having come to Ephesus, some persecution drove him to Patmos. 
Rev. i, 9. (2) That the seven Churches, of which Asia was the center, 

we-e special objects of his solicitude, (Rev. i, 11 ;) that in his work he had 
to encounter men who denied the truth on which his faith rested, (1 John 
iv, 1; 2 John 7,) and others who disputed his authority. 3 John 9, 10.” 
If to this we add that he must have outlived all, or nearly all, of those who 
had been the friends and companions even of his maturer years ; that this 
lingering age gave strength to an old imagination that his Lord had prom- 
ised him immortality, (John xxi, 23 ;) that, as if remembering the actual 



PATMOS. 


words which had been thus perverted, the longing of his soul gathered it- 
self up in the cry, “ Even so, come, Lord Jesus,” (Rev. xxii, 20,) we have 
stated all that has any claim to the character of historical truth. Tradition 
tells us that he was shipwrecked off Ephesus, and arrived there in time to 
check the progress of the heresies which sprang up after Paul’s departure; 
that in the persecution under Domitian he was taken to Rome, and that the 
boiling oil into which he was thrown had no power to hurt him ; returned 
to Ephesus, attested the truth of the first three Gospels, writing the fourth 
to supply what was wanting; introduced the Jewish mode of celebrating 
the Easter feast; and that, when all capacity to work and teach was gone 
— when there was no strength even to stand — he directed himself to be 
carried to the assemblage of believers, and simply said, with a feeble voice, 
“ Little children, love one another.” 


308 


JOIADA — JOKSHAN. 


2. Character. John’s character is often mistaken, being far removed 
from the effeminate pietist which has furnished the type under which he has 
been represented. “ He had a wonderful depth and power of imagination, 
a rare combination of strength and sweetness, a perfect faith inspiring his 
devotion, and a perfect love which cast out fear — gifts and graces which 
rendered him worthy of leaning his head on the bosom of his Lord.” — Far- 
rar, Life of Christ. 

3. One of the family of the high-priest, who, with Annas and Caiaphas, 
sat in the council before whom the apostles Peter and John were summoned 
for their cure of the lame man and preaching in the temple. Acts iv, 6. 

Lightfoot identifies him with Rabbi Jolianan ben Zaccai, who lived forty 
years before the destruction of the temple, and was president of the great 
synagogue after its removal to Jabne, or Jamnia. Grotius merely says he 
was known to rabbinical writers as ‘ John the priest.’ ” — Smith, Dictionary , s. v. 

4. The Hebrew name of the evangelist Mark, who throughout the narra- 
tive of the Acts is thus designated. Acts xii, 12, 25 ; xiii, 5; xv, 37. 

JOI'ADA, (Heb. Yoyada', jTPi\ a contraction of Jehoiada, q. v.,) the son 

and successor of Eliashib in the high-priesthood, and succeeded by his son 
Jonathan. Neh. xii, 10, 11, 22. Another of his sons married a daughter of 
Sanballat, on which account he was banished by Nehemiah. Nell, xiii, 28. 
B. C. before 445. 

JOFAKIM, (Heb. Yoyalrim', a contraction of Jehoiakim, q. v.,) a 

liigh-priest, son of Jeshua, and father of Eliashib. Neh. xii, 10, 12, 26. 
B. C. before 445. 

JOFARIB, (Heb. Yoyarib’, ^'T'p, whom Jehovah defends.) 

1. A man “ of understanding,” and one of those with whom Ezra con- 
sulted upon the subject of obtaining a company of Levites to return with 
him to Jerusalem. Ezra viii, 16. This conference took place at the river 
Ahava, (ver. 15,) and resulted in sending a delegation to “Iddo the chief at 
the place Casiphia,” who responded with a large number of the desired min- 
isters. Yers. 17-20. B. C. about 457. 

2. A descendant of Judah, son of Zechariah, and father of Adaiah, prob- 
ably through Slielah. Neh. xi, 5. B. C. probably before 445. 

3. The founder of one of the courses of priests, and father of Jedaiah. 
Neh. xi, 10. It is thought that there is some error in the list by which he 
is given as the father of Jedaiah, for in 1 Chron. ix, 10, (where his name is 
given in full, Jehoiarib,) he ranks with Jedaiah and Jachin as heads of 
courses of priests. (See Keil, in loco.) 

4. A priest who returned with Zerubbabel from Babylon. Neh. xii, 6. His 
son, Mattenai, was a contemporary with the high-priest Joiakim. Yer. 19. 
B. 0. *536. 

JO'KIM, (Heb. Yokim', D^i, a contraction of Joiakim ,) a descendant of 

Shelah, the son of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 22. Jerome quotes a Hebrew legend 
that Jokim was Elimelech, the husband of Naomi, in whose days the sun 
stood still on account of the transgressors of the law. (Smith, s. v.) 

JOIFSHAN, (Heb. Yokshan', snarer, or fowler ,) the second son of 
Abraham and Keturah. Gen. xxv, 2, 3; 1 Chron. i, 32, 33. B. C. after 


JOKTAN— JONAH. 309 

1853. His sons Sheba and Dedan are supposed to have been the ancestors 
of the Sabseans and Dedanites that peopled a part of Arabia Felix. 

JOK'TAN, (Heb. Yokta n', pp\ small, the second-named of the two sons 

of Eber, a descendant of Shem. His brother was Peleg. Gen. x, 25, 26, 
29; 1 Chron. i, 19, 20, 23. B. C. about 2247. 

JO'NA, (John i, 42).— Jonas, (q. v.) 

JON'ADAB, a shortened form of the name Jehonadab, (q. v.) 

1. The son of Shimeah, and nephew of David. 2 Sam. xiii, 3, 32, 35. 

2. The Rechabite. Jer. xxxv, 6, 8, 10, 14, 16, 18, 19. 

JO'NAH, (Heb. Yonah '. ,HJV, dove,) the fifth in order of the minor proph- 
ets, was the son of Amittai, and was born in Gath-hepher, in the tribe of 
Zebulun. 2 Kings xiv, 25. 

Personal History. Jonah flourished probably in or before the reign 
of Jeroboam II., (B. C. about 825,) and predicted the successful conquests, 
enlarged territory, and brief prosperity of the Israelitish kingdom under that 
monarch’s sway. 2 Kings xiv, 25. What else we know of Jonah’s history 
is to be gathered from the book that bears his name. He was commis- 
sioned by Jehovah to go and prophecy to the Ninevites, but for some rea- 
son was reluctant to obey, and attempted to flee to Tarshish. He went to 
Joppa, and there embarked upon a ship bound for that port. A violent 
storm arose, and the captain of the vessel called upon Jonah to pray to his 
God to save them. As the storm did not abate, the sailors proceeded to cast 
lots, believing that some person on board the ship had caused the anger of 
God, as manifested in the tempest. Jonah was singled out as the culprit, 
and at his suggestion they unwillingly cast him into the sea. By the ap- 
pointment of God he was swallowed by a great fish, which upon the third 
day cast him out upon dry land. Jonah was again commanded to go to 
Nineveh, and immediately obeyed. The people repented, a fast was ap- 
pointed, and the city was not destroyed. Provoked at the sparing of Nine- 
veh, Jonah in his displeasure prayed to Jehovah to .take his life, as his proc- 
lamation had not been fulfilled. God taught him, by means of the rapidly 
growing and speedily decaying gourd, that it was proper for him to exercise 
mercy toward the repentant city. 

Difficulties.— 1. Much objection has been urged against the truth of the story 
of Jonah and the fish. It is simply said, “ The Lord had prepared a great fish to 
swallow up Jonah.” The species of marine animal is not defined and the Greek 
nfjTOQ is often used to specify, not the genus whale, but any large fish or sea- 
monster. All objection to its being a whale which lodged Jonah in its stomach, 
from the straitness of throat or rareness of haunt in the Mediterranean, are thus 
removed. Since the days of Bochart it has been a common opinion that the fish 
was of the shark species. Lamia canis carcha/rias, or “ sea-dog.” Entire human 
bodies have been found in some fishes of this kind. Still, granting all these facts, 
the narrative is miraculous, and nothing is impossible with God. 2. Various inter- 
pretations are given of “ the sign of the prophet Jonas.” Matt, xii, 39. Keil 
(Commentary) says : “ The mission of Jonah was a fact of symbolical and typical 
importance, which was intended not only to enlighten Israel as to the position of 
the Gentile world in relation to the kingdom of God, but also to typify the future 
adoption of such of the heathen as should observe the word of God into the fel- 
lowship of the salvation prepared in Israel for all nations.” Whedon ( Commen- 
tary , in loco) explains : “ Our Lord, even in refusing a sign, gives a sign. His 
prophecy of his burial, after the manner of the swallowing of Jonah, was in 
itself a miracle of foreknowledge, and so a proof of his Messiahship. (M’Clintock 
and Strong’s Cyclopaedia ; Ewald, History.) 


810 


JONAN — JONATHAN. 


JO'NAN, (Gr. T«v«r,) the son of Eliakim and father of Joseph, among 
the maternal ancestors of Christ. Luke iii, 30. He is not mentioned in the 
Old Testament. 

JO'NAS, (Gr. ’I uwif, for the Heb. Jonah.) 

1. The prophet Jonah. Matt, xii, 39, 40, 41 ; xvi, 4 ; Luke xi, 29, 30, 32. 

2. The father of the apostle Peter. John xxi, 15-17. In John i, 42. the 
name is given as Jona. 

JONATHAN, (Heb. Yonathan ', a contracted form of Jehonathun, 

God-given.) 

1. The son, or descendant, of Gershom, the son of Moses. Judg. xviii, 30. 
Jonathan, who was a Levite, resided at Bethlehem, and, leaving that place 
to seek his fortune, came*to Mount Ephraim, to the home of Micah. This 
person made Jonathan an offer to receive him into his house as priest, which 
offer he accepted. Chap, xvii, 7-13. Not long after five Danite spies, look- 
ing for a suitable place for settlement, came to the house of Micah, and in- 
quired of Jonathan respecting the success of their journey. He replied, 
‘‘Go in peace: before the Lord is your way wherein ye go.” Afterward, 
when a company of 600 Danites were on their way to occupy Laish, they 
went to Micah’s house, appropriated the carved image, the ephod, the ter- 
aphim, and the molten image. Jonathan accepted their invitation to ac- 
company them, and became their priest. This office remained in his family 
until “ the day of the captivily of the land.” Chap, xviii, 1-30. The time 
of the events narrated above is fixed by Dr. J. Strong as B. C. about J590. 
and its proper place in the record between the second and third chapters. 

Difficulty.— There Is little doubt but that Jonathan was a descendant of Moses, 
and we have, therefore, to explain the expression “ son of Manasseh.” It is sup- 
posed that in the name Moses (Q^n) the single letter n (j) has been interpolated, 
changing it into Manasseh, in order to save the character of the great lawgiver 
from the stain of having an idolater among his immediate descendants. 

2. The eldest son of Saul, king of Israel. 

1. Personal History. Jonathan first appears in history some time after 
his father’s accession, being at that time at least thirty years of age. In 
the war with the Philistines, commonly called, from its locality, “the war 
of Michmash,” he commanded 1,000 men of the 3,000 which composed 
Saul’s standing army. He was encamped at Gibeali, and “ smote the gar- 
rison of the Philistines” in Geba. 1 Sam. xiii, 2, 3. Saul and the whole 
population rose, but unsuccessfully, and the tyranny of the Philistines be- 
came harsher than ever. From this oppression Jonathan resolved to de- 
liver his people, and unknown to any but his armor-bearer he attacked the 
garrison at Michmash. 1 Sam. xiv, 1, 4-14. A panic seized the garrison, 
spread to the camp, and thence to the surrounding bands. This was in- 
creased by an earthquake, and by the combined assault of various bodies 
of Israelites hidden in the mountains. Saul and his band joined in the 
pursuit of the Philistines, having forbidden any man to taste of food until 
the evening. Ignorant of this command and accompanying curse, Jonathan 
partook of some honey while passing through the forest. This coming to 
the knowledge of Saul, he would doubtless have fulfilled his vow and have 
sacrificed Jonathan, but the people interfered in his behalf. 1 Sam. xiv, 16- 
45. B. C. about 1087. Jonathan is next introduced to us as the bosom 
friend of David. Their friendship began on the day of David’s return from 


JONATHAN. 


311 


the victory over Goliath, and was confirmed by a solemn covenant, which 
was ratified by Jonathan giving his Iriend his mantle, sword, girdle, and 
bow. I Sam. xviii, 1-4. B. C. about 1063. Shortly after this iie pleaded 
with his lather in behalf of David, and secured a reversal of the royal de- 
cree against the latter’s life. Chap, xix, 1-7. B. C. about 1062. The king’s 
madness soon returned, and David fled. The friends met, however, by the 
stone of Ezel, and entered into a second covenant, pledging themselves to 
strive for each other’s safety, and David swearing to show kindness to 
the family of Jonathan when he should be delivered of his . enemies. He 
agaiu pleaded with his father to spare David, which so enraged the king 
that he “ cast a javelin at him,” with the evident intention of taking his 
life. The next day he communicated the fnilure of his mission to David, 
and they parted to meet only once more. 1 Sam. xx, 1-42. This last meet- 
ing was in the forest of Ziph, during Saul’s pursuit of David. Jonathan 
gave expression to his confidence in his friend’s elevation to the throne. 
“ They two made a covenant before the Lord,” and parted to meet no more. 

1 Sam. xxiii, 15-18. B. C. about 1061. We hear no more of Jonathan until 
the battle of Gilboa, when, with his father and his two brothers, he was 
slain by the Philistines. 1 Sam. xxxi, 2, 8. B. C. 1056. His remains were 
buried first at Jabesh-gilead, (ver. 13,) but were after ward removed, with 
those of his father, to Zelah in Benjamin. 2 Sam. xxi, 12-14. Jonathan 
left one son, Mephibosheth, who was five years old at the time of his death. 

2 Sam. iv, 4. 

2. Character. Jonathan was a man of lofty daring, who did not shrink 
to place himself in the greatest danger for the sake of his country. But 
his most noticeable characteristic was liis ardent and unselfish devotion to 
his friends, which led him to give up his hopes of the throne, and even 
expose himself to death, for the sake of those he loved. Notwithstanding 
that his affection for his father was repelled by the latter, owing to the 
king’s insanity, he cast his lot with his father’s decline, and “ in death they 
were not divided.” 

3. Son of Abiathar the high-priest, who adhered to David during the 
rebellion of Absalom. 2 Sam. xv, 27, 36. He remained at En-rogel to re- 
port to his master the proceedings in the camp of the insurgents, but, being 
discovered, fled to Bahurim, and escaped by hiding in a well. Chap, xvii, 
17-21. B. C. 1023. Later his loyalty to the house of David is shown by 
announcing to the ambitious Adonijah the forestallment of his measures by 
the succession to the throne of Solomon. 1 Kiugs i, 42, 43. B. C. 1015. 

4. The son of Shiraeah, (Shammah,) and nephew of David, who slew a 
gigautic relative of Goliath and became one of David’s chief warriors. 
2 Sam. .xxi, 21; 1 Chron. xx, 7. He is probably the same who is mentioned 
as secretary of the royal cabinet, (1 Chron. xxvii, 32,) where in is trans 
lated “ uncle.” B. 0. about 1015. 

5. The son of Shage the Hararite, and one of David’s famous warriors. 

2 Sam. xxiii, 32 ; 1 Chron. xi, 34. B. C. 1047. 

6. The second son of Jada, the grandson of Jarahmeel, of the family of 
Judah. Jether dying without issue, this branch of the line was continued 
through Jonathan’s two sons, Peletli and Zaza. 1 Chron. ii, 32, 33. B. C. 
after 1612. 

7. Father of Ebed, which latter was an Israelite of the “ sons ” of Ad n who 
returned with Ezra from Babylon with 50 males. Ezra viii, 6. B. C. before 407. 

29 


812 


JORAH — JOSEPH. 


8. Son of Asaliel, employed with Jahaziah in separating the people from 
their Gentile wives. Ezrax, 15. B. C. 457. 

9. Son of Joiada and father of Jaddua, Jewish higli-priests, (Neh. xii, 
11;) elsewhere (Neh. xii, 22) called Johanan, (q. v.) Josephus relates 
(Ant., xi, 7, 1, 2) that he murdered his own brother Jesus in the temple, be- 
cause Jesus was endeavoriug to get the high-priesthood from him through 
the influence of Bagoses, the Persian general. 

10. A priest, the descendant of Melicu, in the time of Joiakira. Neh. xi ; , 
14. B. C. between 536 and 549. 

11. Son of Shemaiah and father of Zechariah, a priest who blew the 
trumpet at the dedication of the wall. Neh. xii, 35. B. C. after 536. He is 
probably the same as Jehonathan. Ver. 18. 

12 A scribe in the time of King Zedekiah, in whose house Jeremiah was 
imprisoned by the princes of Judah. Jer. xxxvii, 15, 20; xxxviii, 26. B. C. 
589. 

13. One of the sons of Kareali, who, with others, held a conference with 
Gedaliah, the Babylonian governor of Jerusalem. Jer. xl, 8. B. C. 588. 

JO'RAH, (Heb. Yordh', mi\ sprinkling ) a man whose descendants, (or 

place whose former inhabitants,) to the number of 112, returned from the 
Babylonish captivity. Ezra ii, 18 ; Hariph in Neh. vii, 24. B. C. about 536. 

JO'RAI, (Heb. Yoray\ perhaps the same as Jorah,) the fourth- 

named of seven Gadite chiefiains, (1 Chron. v, 13,) the place of whose resi- 
dence is not given, unless, as Keil conjectures, ( Commentary , in loco.) verse 
16 mentions it. In that case they dwelt in Gilead, in Bashan. B. 0. per- 
haps about 782. 

JO'RAM, (Heb. a shortened form of Jehoram, q. v.) 

1. Son of Toi, king of Hamath, who was sent by his father to congratulate 
David upon his victory over Hadadezer. 2 Sam. viii, 9, 10. B. C. 1040. He 
is called Hadoram in 1 Chron. xviii, 10. 

2. One of the descendants of Eliezer, mentioned in 1 Chron. xxvi, 25. In 
Matt, i, 8, for Jehoram, (q. v.) 

JO'RIM, (Gr. 'iupti/i) the son of Matthat and father of Eliezer, mater- 
nal ancestors of Jesus. Luke iii, 29. 

JOR'KOAM, (Heb. Yorlcedm ', paleness of the people , or scattered 

people) the son of Raham, descendant of Caleb ; or the name of a place in 
the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 44. 

JOS'ABAD, another form of Jozabad , (No. 1.) 

JOS'APHAT, a Grecized form (Matt, i, 8) of the name Jehoshaphat, king 
of Judah. 

JO'SE, one of the maternal ancestors of Jesus, (Luke iii, 29,) not men- 
tioned in the Old Testament. 

JO'SEDECH, another form of Jehozadak, or Jozadak, the son of Se- 
raiah. Hag. i, 1, 12, 14; ii, 2, 4; Zech. vi, 11. 

JO'SEPH, (Heb. Yoseph ', F)Di\ remover and increaser.) 

1. The elder son of Jacob and Rachel; was born while his father wa§ 
still serving Laban. Gen. xxx, 22-25. B. C. about IH5. 


JOSEPH. 


313 


1. Personal History. After bis birth Joseph is mentioned in connec- 
tion with his father’s flight, (Gen. x.xxiii, 2, 7,) and then no more until he 
was seventeen years of age. (1) Position in Family. As the child of 
Rachel, and “ son of his old age,” (chap, xxxvii, 3,) and doubtless also for 
his excellence of character, he was beloved by his father above all his 
brethren. This, together with the fact that he reported to his father the 
evil conduct of the sons of Bilhah and of Zilpah, caused his brethren to hate 
him. Their jealousy was aggravated by Jacob’s showing his preference in 
presenting Joseph with a dress, probably a long tunic with sleeves, worn 
by youths of the richer class. Gen. xxxvii, 2-4. A still greater provocation 
was the telling of his dreams, that seemed to foreshow his pre-eminence in 
the family. Vers. 5-11. (2) Sold into Slavery. Such was Joseph’s relation 

to his brethren when his father fent him from the vale of Hebron to She- 
chem, to inquire concerning their welfare. They were not at Shechem, but 
were found by Joseph in Dothan. His appearance aroused their hatred, 
and, with the exception of Reuben, they resolved to kill him. He interfered 
in Joseph’s behalf, and persuaded them to cast him into a pit, intending *• to 
deliver him to his father again.” This they accordiugly did, after stripping 
him of his tunic. While they were eating bread a compauy of Arabian 
merchants (Ishmaelites) appeared, and, at the suggestion of Judah and in 
the absence of Reuben, Joseph was sold to them for twenty shekels of 
silver. Dipping Joseph’s tunic in the blood of a kid, they sent it to Jacob, 
that he might believe that his favorite had been torn in pieces by some wild 
beast. Their trick succeeded, and Joseph was mourned as dead. The 
merchants sold Joseph to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, and he became 
an Egyptian slave. Gen. xxxvii, 12-36. B. C. about 1729. (3) Slave Life. 

In the service of Potiphar, Joseph behaved himself so discreetly, and was so 
led of God, that he found great favor with his master, who gave him the di- 
rection of all his affairs. Refusing, however, to gratify the improper request 
of his master’s wife, he was accused by her of unchastity and thrust into 
prison. Here, also, God was with Joseph, procuring him favor in the eyes 
of the governor of the prison, so that he intrusted all the prisoners to his 
care, leaving every thing to his supervision. Chap, xxxix, 21-23. While 
here he interpreted correctly the dreams of two of his fellow-prisoners — Pha- 
raoh’s chief butler and baker — disclaiming any human skill, and acknowl- 
edging that the interpretations were of God. These interpretations were 
fulfilled three days afterward, on the king’s birthday. Chap. xl. (4) Exalta- 
tion. After two years Pharaoh had two prophetic dreams which the magi- 
cians and wise men of Egypt were unable to interpret. The butler calling to 
mind the service rendered him by Joseph, advised his royal master to put his 
skill to the test. Joseph was sent for and interpreted the dreams as foretelling 
seven years of plenty to be followed by seven years of famine. He fol- 
lowed up this interpretation by advising Pharaoh to “ look out a man dis- 
creet and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt.” This counsel pleased 
Pharaoh and his ministers, who believed that Joseph possessed the spirit 
of supernatural insight and wisdom. Joseph was appointed ruler over 
Pharaoh’s house, and over all the land ; in other words, became grand vizier 
of Egypt Pharaoh called him Zaphnath-paaneah, ( saviour of the world.) and 
married him to Asenath, daughter of Poti-pherah, the priest of On. This 
promotion took place when Joseph was thirty years of age. Gen. xli, 1-47. 
£. C. 1715, During the seven years of plenty Joseph prepared for the 


314 


JOSEPH. 


years of famine to follow by carefully husbanding the grain, which was so 
abundant as to be beyond measurement. During these years his two sons, 
Manasseh and Ephraim, were born. Chap, xli, 47-52. When scarcity began 
Joseph was in a condition to supply the wants of Egj’-pt, and also of sur- 
rounding nations. He put all Egypt under Pharaoh — first the money, then 
the cattle, the land, (excepting the priests’,) and eventually the Egyptians 
themselves, becoming the property of the crown. The people were distributed 
according to the cities in which the grain was stored, and were instructed 
to pay a tax to the crown of one fifth of the product of the soil. Gen. xli, 
53-57 ; xlvii, 14-26. (5) Joseph and his Brethren. Early in the time of 

famine the brethren of Joseph, excepting Benjamin, went to Egypt to buy 
food. Applying to Joseph, who had supreme control over the stores of 



JOSEPH’S TOMB AND MOUNT GERIZIM. 


Egypt, he was not recognized, but knew his brethren, and seems to have 
resolved to make them feel and acknowledge the wrong they had done him. 
He acted as a foreigner toward them, speaking harshly to them, inquired 
whence they had come, and accused them of being spies. This charge they 
denied, and told him particularly about their family. After putting them in 
ward for three days, he sent them home to bring back their youngest 
brother as proof of their veracity, keeping Simeon as hostage. Having 
with great difficulty secured Jacob’s permission, they took Benjamin, a 
present, double money to repay the sum placed by order of Joseph in each 
man’s sack, and returned to Egypt. The presence of his younger brother 
assured Joseph of the truth of his father’s welfare, and, yielding to his 
patural impulses, he made himself known to liis brethren, He inquired 


JOSEPH. 


SiS 


again concerning his father ; told them not to grieve because of the sin 
they had committed in selling him, as God had overruled it for their wel- 
fare ; charged them to return to Canaan and bring Jacob and their families 
to Egypt, and that he would provide for them during the five remaining 
years of famine. These events reached the ear of Pharaoh; he approved 
all that Joseph had done, and gave commandment that Jacob and liis family 
should forthwith come into Egypt. Chap, xlii, 1-xlv, 24. (6) Welcomes 

Israel. Israel, convinced that Joseph still lived, went to Egypt, where he 
was tenderly welcomed and provided for, and placed in the land of Goshen. 
When he died he was embalmed by order of Joseph, and carried by him to 
Canaan and laid in the grave of Machpelah. Chap, xlv, 25-1, 13. B. C. 
1689. (7) Remaining History. Upon his return from Canaan Joseph 

found his brethren iu fear lest, his father being dead, he would punish them. 
He assured them that this was not his purpose, and promised still to nourish 
them and their little ones. Joseph lived to be 110 years of age, and dying 
took an oath of his brethren that they would carry up his bones to the land 
of promise. After his death he was embalmed and “put in a coffin in 
Egypt.” Chap. 1, 14-26. B. C. 1635. This promise was religiously kept, as 
“ Moses took the bones of Joseph with him,” (Exod. xiii, 19,) and they were 
at length put in their final resting-place in Shechem. Josh, xxiv, 32. 

2. Character. In Joseph we recognize the elements of a noble charac- 
ter — piety, pure and high morality, simplicity, gentleness, fidelity, patience, 
perseverance, an iron will, and an indomitable energy. 

2. The father of Igal, the spy delegated from Issachar to explore Canaan. 
Num. xiii, 7. B. C. 1490. 

3. One of the sons of Asaph who were appointed chiefs of the first di- 
vision of sacred musicians by David. 1 Chron. xxv, 2, 9. B. C. about 1015. 

4. A Jew of the family of Bani who divorced his Gentile wife after the 
captivity. Ezra x, 42. B. C. 456. 

5. Son of Shebaniah, and one of the chief priests after the captivity. Neh. 
xii, 14. B. C. after 536. 

6. The husband of Mary, and foster-father of our Lord. 

1. Family. By Matthew (who gives the line of royal inheritance) he is 
said to have been the son (that is, son-in-law) of Jacob, whose lineage is 
traced through David up to Abraham. Luke (giving the line of natural de- 
scent) represents him as the son of Heli, and traces his origin up to Adam. 

2. Personal History. Only a few statements respecting Joseph appear 
in Holy Writ. While living at Nazareth (Luke ii, 4) he espoused Mary ; 
but before he took her home as his wife she proved to be with child. 
Grieved at this, and yet not wishing to make a public example of Mary, 
Joseph purposed quietly to separate from her “ by simply a note of dismissal, 
or bill of divorcement.” — Whedon, Commentary. He was dissuaded from tak- 
ing this step by the assurance of the angel that Mary had conceived under 
a divine influence. Matt, i, 18, sq ; Luke i, 27. Joseph obeyed the divine 
command and took Mary as his wife. Matt, i, 24. Shortly after he was 
obliged, by the decree of enrollment from Augustus Caesar, to leave Nazareth 
with his wife and go to Bethlehem. When the shepherds came he was there 
with Mary and her babe ; he went with them to the temple to present the in- 
fant according to the law, and, warned by an angel, took them down to Egypt, 
where he remained until, directed by a heavenly messenger, he returned to 
the land of Israel. His intention to reside in Bethlehem was changed 


S16 JOSEPH. 

through fear of Archelaus, and he took up his abode in Nazareth, (Matt, ii, 
1-23,) where he carried on his trade of carpenter. When Jesus was twelve 
years old Joseph took him and Mary to Jerusalem to keep the Passover, and 
upon their return to Nazareth continued to act as his father. Luke ii, 41-51. 
The sacred writings furnish no additional information respecting Joseph, 
and the origin of all the earliest stories and assertions of the fathers con- 
cerning him is to be found in the apocryphal gospels. 

7. The son of Mattathias and father of Janna, maternal ancestors of Jesus. 
Luke iii, 24. 

8. The son of Judah and father of Semei, maternal ancestors of Jesus. 
Luke iii, 26. 

9. The son of Jonan and father of Judah, among Christ’s maternal an- 
cestors. Luke iii, 30. 

10. Of Arimathea, “ an honorable counselor, who waited for the kingdom 
of God,” and was a secret disciple of Jesus. The crucifixion seems to 
have wrought in him positive convictions, for, upon learning of the death of 
our Lord, he “ went in boldly unto Pilate and craved the body of Jesus.” 
Pilate, having learned from the centurion who had charge of the execution 

that Jesus was actu- 
ally dead, gave the 
body to Joseph, who 
took it down from 
the cross. After it 
had been embalmed 
at the cost of Nico- 
demus, another se- 
cret disciple, (John 
xix, 39,) Joseph had 
the body wrapped in 
linen, and deposited 
it in a new tomb be- 
longing to himself 
and located in a gar- 
den “ in the place 
where Jesus was cru- 
cified.” Matt, xxvii, 
58-60 ; Mark xv, 43- 
46; Luke xxiii, 50, 
sq. A. D. 29. Luke 
interior OF rock sepulcher. describes Joseph as 

“ a good man and a just,” and adds that “ he had not consented to the coun- 
sel and deed of them,” that is, of the Jewish authorities. From this remark 
it seems to be evident that he was a member of the Sanhedrin. 

11. Surnamed Barsabas, was one of the two persons whom the primitive 
Church nominated, immediately after the resurrection of Christ, praying 
that the Holy Spirit would show which one should be apostle in place of 
Judas. When the lots were cast Matthias was chosen. Acts i, 25. A. D. 
29. Joseph also bore the name of Justus , and was one of those who had 
“ companied with the apostles all the time that the Lord Jesus went in 
and out among them, beginning from the baptism of John” until the as- 
cension. Acts i, 21, 22. 



317 


JOSES — JOSHUA. 

iTO'SES, (Gr. ’Icjtxjfa, perhaps for Joseph ,) the son of Mary and Cleopas, 
and brother of James the Less, Simon, and Jude. He was, consequently, 
one of those who are called “ the brethren ” of our Lord. Matt, xiii, 55 ; 
xxvii, 56 ; Mark vi, 3 ; xv, 40, 47. He alone of his brethren was not an 
aposile. 

2. A Levite of Cyprus, (Acts iv, 36,) surnamed by the apostles Barnabas, 
(q. v.) 

JOSH' AH, (Heb. Yoshah', JldM'j perhaps establislier ,) son of Amaziah, and 

one of the princes of Simeon, the increase of whose family led them to re- 
move to the valley of Gedor, from which they expelled the Hamites. 
1 Chron. iv, 34. B. C. about 711. 

JOSH'APHAT, (Heb. Yoshaphaf , LDDSjH'S) a Mithnite, and one of Da- 
vid’s mighty men. 1 Chron. xi, 43. B. C. 1047. 

JOSHAVI'AH, (Heb. Yoshavyah', rP’IOT, Jehovah sufficient ,) son of El- 

naam, and, with his brother Jeribai, associated with the body-guard of Da- 
vid. 1 Chron. xi, 46. B. C. 1047. 

JOSHBEK'ASHAH, (Heb. Yoslibekashah' , seat in hardness ,) a 

son of Heman, and leader of the seventeenth division of the temple mu- 
sicians. 1 Chron. xxv, 4, 24. B. C. about 1015. 

JO'SHEB-BASH'SHEBETH, (Heb. Yosheb'-bash-She'beth, 

sitting in the council ,) the chief of David’s three heroes, (2 Sam. xxiii, 8, 
margin;) called in 1 Chron. xi, 11, Jashobeam, (q. v.) 

JOSH'UA. 1. 1. Name. (Heb. Yeho.shu'a, Jehovah his help , 

changed by Moses (Hum. xiii, 16) from Uoshea , salvation. Hum. xiii, 8.) 

2. Family. The son of Hun, the son of Elishama, prince of the tribe of 
Ephraim. Exod. xxxiii, 11 ; Hum. i, 10. 

3. Personal History. (1) In Battle. In the Bible the first mention of 

Joshua is as the victorious commander of the Israelites in their battle against 
the Amalekites at Rephidim. Exod. xvii, 8-16. B. C. 1491. (2) On 

Mount Sinai. When Moses ascended Sinai to receive for the first time 
(Exod. xxiv, 13) the two tables, Joshua, who is called his minister or serv- 
ant, accompanied him part of the way, and was the first to accost him on 
his return. Exod. xxxii, 17. (3) In Charge of Tabernacle. Alter the de- 

fection of Israel and their worship of the golden calf, Moses moved the 
tabernacle outside of the camp, and, returning to the congregation, left it in 
charge of Joshua. Exod. xxxiii, 11. (4) An Unwise Request. When it 

was told Moses that Eldad and Medad prophesied in the camp, Joshua re- 
quested him to forbid them, which request elicited that famed reply of Mo- 
ses, “ Enviest thou for my sake ? would God that all the Lord’s people were 
prophets, and that the Lord would put his Spirit upon them.” Hum. xi. 27- 
29. (5) A Spy. Soon after Joshua was appointed as one of the twelve 

chiefs sent (Hum. xiii, 16, 17) to explore the land of Canaan. He and Ca 
leb (q. v.) were the only ones that gave an encouraging report of their 
journey, and exhorted the people to go up and possess the land. Hum xiv, 
6-9. B. C. 1490. (6) Appointed Ruler. The forty years of wandering 

were almost passed, and Joshua, because of his faithfulness, was one of the 


318 


JOSHUA. 


few survivors. Num. xxvi, 65. Moses, by direction of God, (Num. xxvii, 
18-23,) invested him solemnly and publicly with authority, in connection 
with Eleazar, over the people. Deut. iii, 28. (7) With Moses in the Tab- 


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ernacle. It was revealed to Moses that he was soon to die, and that he 
should appear with Joshua in the tabernacle. And while in the presence of 
God Moses gave his faithful minister a “ charge,” and said, “ Be strong 
and of good courage : for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the 


JOSHtA. 


319 


land which I sware unto them ; and I will be with thee.” Deut. xxxi, 14, 

23. (8) Assumes Charge of Israel. Under the direction of God, again re- 

newed, (Josh, i, 1,) Joshua, now in his eighty-fifth year, and “ full of the 
spirit of wisdom,” (Deut. xxxiv, 9,) assumed the command of the people. 
B. 0. 1451. From Shittim he sent spies into Jericho, who were lodged and 
secreted by Rahab, (q. v.,) and returned to Joshua with an account of the 
fear of the people because of the Israelites. Joshua ii. (9) Entrance into 
Canaan. The next morning after their return Joshua broke camp at Shit- 
tirn and moved down to the edge of Jordan, which at this season, the har- 
vest, (April,) overflowed the banks. Joshua iii, 15. On the third day the 
officers instructed the people in the order of the march, and Joshua bade 
them sanctify themselves for the morrow. In the morning the priests ad- 
vanced in front of the people bearing the ark, and when their feet touched 
the water the river was divided. They took their position in the midst of 
the river bed, and there remained until the people had all passed over. 
Meanwhile twelve chosen men, one from each tribe, took twelve stones from 
the spot where the priests stood, leaving in their place twelve other stones 
taken from the dry land. When all this was done Joshua commanded the 
priests to come up out of Jordan ; and as soon as they reached dry ground 
the waters of Jordan returned and overflowed its banks as before. Josh, iv, 
1-18. (10) In Canaan. The host encamped that night at Gilgal, in the 

plains of Jericho, and there Joshua set up the twelve stones taken from 
Jordan as a perpetual memorial of the dividing of its waters. Josh, iv, 19- 

24. At the command of God, Joshua caused the people to be circumcised ; 
which rite seems to have been neglected in the case of those born after the 
exodus. Josh, v, 5. Four days after the crossing of Jordan the passover 
was celebrated ; aud the Israelites eating the next day of bread made from 

' the corn of the land, the manna ceased. Josh, v, 10-12. (11) Capture of 

Jericho. As Joshua was meditating how to attack Jericho, he saw a war- 
rior with a drawn sword in his hand, who, in reply to Joshua’s challenge, 
announced himself as the “captain of the host of Jehovah,” and gave the 
divine plan for the capture of the 
city. Yers. 13, 14. The men of war, 
and priests carrying trumpets and 
the ark, were to compass the city 
once each day for six days, and seven 
times on the seventh day, when the 
walls of the city would fall. Follow- 
ing the directions given, Joshua be- 
held the fall of the city, put the in- 
habitants to death, and destroyed the 
property found therein. The only 
exception was Rahab and her household, and the silver, and gold, and ves- 
sels of brass and iron, which were placed in the sacred treasury. Josh. vi. 
(12) The First Defeat. The next undertaking was the capture of Ai, which 
the spies informed Joshua would be easily accomplished. But three thou- 
sand men were sent to take it — so sure seemed victory. They were repulsed 
and chased to Shebarim, with a loss of thirty -six men. Joshua made inquiry 
of the Lord as to the reason of the defeat of Israel, and was told of the taking of 
spoil from Jericho by one of the Israelites. A lot was ordered, which resulted 
in fixing the erime upon Achan, (q. v.,) and the destruction of himself, farn- 



§20 


JOSHUA. 


ily, and property; Joshua vii. (13) Taking of Ai. Joshua then formed a 
plan for taking Ai by stratagem, which met with complete success. The 
city was destroyed with all its inhabitants, its king hanged on a tree, and 
buried under a great heap of stones, the only memorial of the city. Josh, 
viii, 1-29. After this, Joshua caused the law to be engraven upon stones 
on Mount Ebal, and read to the people stationed upon that mountain and 
Mount Gerizim. Josh, viii, 30-35. (14) Craft of the Gibeonites. When the 

kings of the Hittites and other nations west of Jordan heard of the fall of 
Ai, they armed themselves against Joshua. But the Gibeonites, a confeder- 
acy of several cities not far from the encampment of the Israelites, sent 
embassadors in torn clothes, with old sacks and musty bread, pretending that 
they had come from a distant country and wished to make a covenant with 
Israel. They obtained a treaty which was generously respected by Joshua, 
he merely compelling them to act as “hewers of wood and drawers of 



JOSHUA’S BATTLE-FIELD AT GIBEON. 


water for the congregation and for the altar of the Lord.” Josh, ix- 
(15) Battle of Gibeon. Alarmed by the defection of the Gibeonites, Adoni- 
zedek, king of Jerusalem, made a league with the kings of Hebron, Jar- 
muth, Lachish, and Eglon, and laid siege to Gibeon. Joshua hastened to 
their help, marching by night from Gilgal. and, taking the Amorites by sur- 
prise, utterly routed them near Bethhoron. Joshua was aided in this battle by 
an unprecedented hailstorm, which slew more than fell by the sword ; and by 
a miraculous lengthening of the day, which enabled hitn to pursue the fugi- 
tives even to Makkedah. Josh. x. (16) Subsequent Conquest. This great 
battle was followed bv the conquest of Makkedah. Libnah, Lachish, Gezer, 
Eglon, Hebron, and Debir. In this one campaign Joshua subdued the 
southern half of Palestine, from Kadesh-barnea to Gaza, the eastern and 
western limit of the southern frontier ; and he led the people back to Gil- 
gal. Josh. x. In another campaign he marched to Lake Merom, where he 



JOSHUA. 


S2l 

taet and overthrew a confederacy of the Canaanitish chiefs of the north, 
under Jabin, king of Hazor; and in the course of the war led his victorious 
soldiers to the gates of Zidon and into the valley .of Lebanon, under Mount 
Hermon, but left the cities standing, with the exception of Hazor. In six 
years Joshua was master of the whole land from Mount Halak, at the as- 
cent of Mount Seir on the south, to Baalgad, under Mount Hermon, on the 
north. His conquests were six nations, with thirty-one kings, including the 
Anakim, the old terror of Israel. Josh, xi, 12. B. C. 1455. (17) Dividing 

the Inheritance. Joshua, now in conjunction with Eleazar and the heads 
of the tribes, proceeded to apportion the promised land, including the part 
as yet unconquered, asking for his portion Timnath-serah, a city of Mount 
Ephraim. Josh, xiii-xix. After the inheritance of live of the tribes had 
been determined Joshua removed to Shiloh, where he set up the tabernacle 
and assembled the people. Josh, xviii, 1. There were still seven tribes that 
had uot received their inheritance, and Joshua reproved them for their slack- 
ness in taking possession of the land. Therefore, three men were appointed 
from each tribe to make a survey of the rest of the land and to divide it 
into seven portions, which, with their several cities, they described in a book. 
The survey being liuished, Joshua cast lots for the seven portions before 
the tabernacle in Shiloh. Josh, xviii, 2-10. Six cities of refuge were ap- 
pointed by the people themselves, three on the west of Jordan and three on 
the east of Jordan. Josh. xx. The Levites having claimed the right given 
to them by Moses, received forty-eight cities and their suburbs, which were 
given up by the several tribes in proportion to the cities they severally 
possessed. Josh, xxi ; comp. Num. xxxv, 1-8. Tne warriors cf the trans- 
Jordanic tribes were then dismissed in peace to their homes. Josh. xxii. 
(18) Old Age and Death. After au interval of rest Joshua convoked an 
assembly from all Israel, and delivered to them two solemn addresses con- 
cerning the marvelous fulfillment of God’s promises to their fathers. He 
warned them of the conditions upon which their property depended, and 
caused them to renew their covenant with God at Shechem. He died at the 
age of 110 years, and was buried in his own city, Timnath-serah. Josh. xxiv. 
B. C. 1426. 

4. Character. It is difficult to form an estimate of Joshua’s character, 
because the man is overshadowed by the very greatness of the events in 
which he is placed. And yet this is not a dishonor to him, but a glory ; 
a lesser man would have been seen and heard more. His life, though re- 
corded with fullness of detail, shows no stain. By the faithful serving of 
his youth he was taught to command as a man; as a citizen, he was patri- 
otic in the highest degree; as a warrior, fearless and blameless ; as a judge, 
calm and impartial, lie was quite equal to every emergency under which 
he was to act — valiant without temerity, active without precipitation. No 
care, no advantage, no duty, is neglected by him. He ever looked up for 
and obeyed divine direction with the simplicity of a child, and wielded the 
great power given him with calmness, unostentation, and without swerving, 
to the accomplishment of a high, unselfish purpose. He earned, by manly 
vigor, a quiet, honored old age, and retained his faith and loyalty, exclaim- 
ing, in almost his dying breath, ‘‘As for me and my house, we will serve 
the Lord 1 ” 

Difficulties. 1. It has been questioned whether the captain of the Lord’s 
host (Josh, v, 13, 15) was a created being or not. Dr. W. H. Mill decides in favor 


822 


JOSIAH. 


of the former, but j. G. Abicht in favor of the latter. (M’Clintock and Strong^ 
Cyclopaedia, see art. Angel.) 2. The severe treatment of the Canaanites has 
provoked considerable comment. Joshua was right because he acted under com- 
mand of Jehovah. That command has been justified by two facts : (a) The ex- 
cessive wickedness of the Canaanites, (Lev. xviii, 21-24,) and (b) The contamina- 
tion of their example. Deut. vii, 1-4. “ It was utterly impossible to live near 

these degraded idolaters without being defiled by the association.”— Haley, Dis- 
crepancies of the Bible. 3. The lengthening of the day of the battle of Gibeon 
has called forth many theories and stout denial of the fact. The miracle may 
have consisted in the suspension of the rotary motion of the earth, or an unusual 
refraction of the light so as to be visible over the whole of the globe. (Cox. Sacred 
Biography ; see also M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia ; Stanley’s History of 
the Jewish Church.) Another theory is that the work accomplished by the Israel- 
ites was so great that the day seemed to them as lengthened. (Keil, Commentary.) 

2. A native of Beth-shemesh, an Israelite, the owner of the field into 
whicli the cart came which bore the ark on its return from the land of the 
Philistines. 1 Sam. vi, 14, 18. B. C. 1140. 

3. The governor of Jerusalem at the time of the reformation by Josiah. 
2 Kings xxiii, 8. B. C. 624. 

4. The son of Josedech, (Hag. i, 1, 12, 14.) a high-priest in the time of 
Haggai and Zechariah, better known under the name of Jeshua. See Jeshua. 
(No. 2.) In Zechariah (chap, iii, 1-10) Joshua, as pontiff, represents the 
people in the garb of slaves, and afterward clothed with the new and glo- 
rious garments of deliverance. When messengers came to Jerusalem, from 
the remnant of the captivity in Babylon, to offer presents of gold and silver 
to the temple, the prophet was directed to have some of their offerings 
made into crowns for Joshua, as a symbol of the sacerdotal and regal 
crowns of Israel which were to be united on the head of the Messiah. Zech. 
vi, 10, 11. 

JOSI'AH, (Heb. Yoshiyah ', whom Jehovah heals.) 

1. The sixteenth king of the separate kingdom of Judah. 

1. Family. Josiah was the son of King Amon and his wife Jedidah. 

2. Personal History. Josiah, at the early age of eight years, succeeded 

his father on the throne of Judah. 2 Kings xxii, 1 ; 2 Chron. xxxiv, 1. B. C. 
641. ( 1 ) Idolatry Overthrown. In the eighth year of his reign “ he began 

to seek after the God of David his father,” (2 Chron. xxxiv, 3,) and mani- 
fested that enmity to idolatry in all its forms which distinguished his character 
and reign. In the twelfth year of his reign “he began to purge Judah and 
Jerusalem from the high places, and the groves, and the carved images, and 
the molten images.” So strong was his detestation of idolatry that he 
ransacked the sepulchers of the idolatrous priests of former days and 
burned their bones upon the idol altars, before they were overthrown. He 
did not confine his operations to Judah, but went over a considerable part 
of Israel, with the same object in view ; and at Bethel, in particular, exe- 
cuted all that the prophet (1 Kings xiii, 2) had foretold. 2 Kings xxiii, 1-19 ; 
2 Chron. xxxiv, 3-7. (2) Temple Repaired. In the eighteenth year of his 

reign Josiah proceeded to cleanse and repair the temple. This task was 
committed to Shaphan, the state secretary, to Maaseiali, the governor of the 
city, and to the chancellor, Joah. All parties engaged in the work displayed 
such fidelity that the money could be given to them without reckoning. 
2 Kings xxii, 3-7 ; 2 Chron. xxxiv, 8-13. (3) Finding of the Law. In the 

course of this pious labor the high-priest. Hilkiah, discovered in the sanct- 
uary “a book of the Lord by Moses.” He reported his discovery to Sha- 


JOSIAS— JOTHAM. 


323 


phan, who conveyed the volume to the king, and read it in the royal pres- 
ence. Alarmed by the penalties threatened in the law, Josiah sent several 
of his chief counselors to consult with the prophetess Huldah, who replied 
that although these dread penalties would be inflicted, he should be gathered 
to his fathers in peace before the days of punishment came. Perhaps with 
a view of averting the threatened doom, Josiah convened the people at Je- 
rusalem ; and, after the reading of the law, made a solemn covenant with 
Jehovah. 2 Kings xxii, 8-xxiii, 3 ; 2 Chron. xxxiv, 14-32. To ratify the 
renewal of the covenant Josiah appointed the passover to be held at the 
legal time, which was accordingly celebrated on a scale of unexampled mag- 
nificence. But it was too late; the hour of mercy had passed; for “the 
Lord turned not from the fierceness or his great wrath.” 2 Kings xxiii, 21- 
23, 26; 2 Chron. xxxv, 1-19. (4) Death. Not long after this Pharaoh- 

Neclio, king of Egypt, sought a passage through Josiah’s territory, on his 
way to figut against Carchemish, on the Euphrates. Josiah, disguising him- 
self, went out to battle, and was mortally wounded by a random arrow and 
taken to Jerusalem, where he died. B. C. 610. “ Jeremiah lamented for 

Josiah; and all the singing men and the singing women spake of Josiah in 
their lamentations to this day;” that is, in the lamentation which they were 
wont to sing on certain fixed days, they sung also the lamentation for Jo- 
siah. 2 Kings xxiii, 29, 30 ; 2 Chron. xxxv, 20-25. 

2. The sou of Zephaniah, residing in Jerusalem after the captivity, in 
whose house Zechariah was to crown the high-priest Joshua. Zech. vi, 10. 
B. C. 519. 

JOSFAS, the Grecized form of Josiah. Matt, i, 10, 11. 

JOSIBFAH, (Heb. Yoshibyah', iT3t£T, dweller with Jehovah ,) the son of 

Seraiah, of the tribe of Simeon. His son Jehu was one of those who mi- 
grated to Gedor. 1 Chron. iv, 35. B. C. before 711. 

JOSIPHFAH, (Heb. Yosiphyah ', iTDDi\ increased by Jehovah ,) one of 

the family of Sbelomith, and whose son led up 160 males under Ezra to 
Jerusalem from Babylon. Ezra viii, 10. B. C. about 457. 

JOTHAM, (Heb. Yotham / 1 Dni\ Jehovah is upright) 

1. The youngest of Gideon’s legitimate seventy sous, and the only one of 
them who escaped the massacre ordered by Abimelech. Judg. ix, 5. B. C. 
about 1209, (1322.) After Abimelech having been made king by the She- 
chemites, Jotham appeared on Mount Gerizim and protested against their 
act in a beautiful parable, in which the trees are represented as bestowing 
upon the bramble the kingly honor which had been refused by the cedar, the 
olive, and the vine. Yers. 7-21. We hear no more of him, but are informed 

, that three years later the curse that he uttered was accomplished. Yer. 57 

2. The eleventh king of Judah, and son of King Uzziah by Jerusha, 
daughter of Zadok. After his father was smitten with leprosy Jotham 
conducted the government for him until his death, when he ascended the 
throne, being then twenty-five years of age. 2 Kings xv, 5, 32, 33; 2 Chron. 
xxvii, 1. B. C. about 758. Jotham reigned in the spirit and power of his 
father, and avoided any assumption of the priestly functions, which proved 
so disastrous to his father. He was unable, however, to correct all of the 
corrupt practices of the people. He built the upper gate of the temple — thatj 


324 


JOZABAD — JUDA. 


is, tlie northern gate of the inner court — and continued the fortifying of Je- 
rusalem, which his father had begun. He also built “ cities in the mount- 
ains of Judah, and in the forests he built castles and towers.” He waged 
war successfully against the Ammonites, who seem to have refused to pay 
to Jotham the tribute which they paid to Uzziah. 2 Cliron. xxvi, 8. For 
three years after their defeat he compelled them to pay 100 talents of sil- 
ver and 10,000 measures each of wheat and barley. 2 Cliron. xxvii, 2-5. 
After a reign of sixteen years Jotham died, and was buried in the sepulcher 
of the kings. 2 Kings xv, 38 ; 2 Cliron. xxvii, 8, 9. B. C. about 742. 

3. A descendant, apparently, of Caleb, and one of the six sons of Jahdai. 
1 Chron. ii, 47. 

JOZ'ABAD, (Heb. Yozabad', "nti*, contraction of Jehozdbad.) 

TT 

1. An inhabitant of Gederali, and one of the famous Benjamite archers 
who came to David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 4. B. C. about 1058. 

2, 3. Two of the “ captains ” of Manasseli having this name joined David 
when retreating to Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 20. B. C. about 1056. 

4. One of the subordinate overseers, under Conaniah and Sliimei, who 
had charge of the first-fruits, tithes, and consecrated gifts in the time of 
Hezekiah. He was probably a Levite. 2 Chron. xxxi, 13. B. C. 726. 

5. One of the Levite princes who made offerings at the solemnization of 
the Passover by Josiah. 2 Chron. xxxv, 9. B. C. about 623. 

6. A Levite employed, with others, by Ezra to weigh the silver and gold 
and vessels brought from Babylon for the sanctuary. Ezra viii. 33. B. C. 
about 457. He is probably the same with the chief Levite who afterward 
had “ the oversight of the outward business of the house of God.” Neh. xi, 
16. B. C. 445. 

7. One of the priests, of the “ sons ” of Pashur, who put away his Gentile 
wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 22. B. C. 456. 

8. A Levite who also divorced his Gentile wife. Ezra x, 23. B. C. 456. 
Perhaps identical with No. 9. 

9. One of the Levites who assisted Ezra in expounding the law to the 
people. Neh. viii, 7. B. C. about 445. 

JOZ'ACHAR, (Heb. Yozakar "Dfti, remembered by Jehovah ,) the son of 

Shimeath, an Ammonitess, and one of the two servants of Joash, king of 
Judah, who formed a conspiracy against him and slew him in Millo. 2 Kings 
xii, 21; 2 Chron. xxiv, 25, 26; in the latter passage the name is given as 
Zabad. B. C. 839. 

JOZ'ADAK, (Ezraiii, 2, 8 ; v, 2 ; x, 18 ; Neh xii, 26.) See Jehozadak. 

JU'BAL, (Heb. Yubal ', jubilee ,) the second son of Lamech by Adah, 

a descendant of Cain. He is described as the inventor of the “ harp and 
organ,” perhaps the lyre and mouth-organ, or pipe. Gen. iv, 21. B. C. after 
3875, (about 3490.) According to Josephus, ( Ant ., i, 2, 2,) “he cultivated 
music, and invented the psaltery and cithara.” 

JU'CAL, an abbreviated form (Jer. xxxviii, 1) of Jehucal, (q. v.) 

JU'DA, an incorrect English form of the name Judas or Judah. 

1. The patriarch Judah , son of Jacob, Riike iii, 33; Heb. vii, 14; Rey. 
Y ? 5; vii, 0, 


JUDAH. 325 

2. One of the brethren of our Lord. Mark vi, 3. His name is given more 
correctly, in Matt, xiii, 55, as Judas. 

3, 4. Maternal ancestors of our Lord. Luke iii, 26, 30. 

JU'DAH. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Yehudah', JTttn\ celebrated,) 

was the fourth son of Jacob and Leah, and whole brother to Reuben, Sim- 
eon, and Levi, older than himself, and Issachar and Zebulun younger. Gen. 
xxix, 35. B. C. 1749. 

2. Personal History. (1) Treatment of Joseph. It was by Judah’s 

advice that his brethren sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites instead of taking 
his life. By the light of his subsequent conduct we see that his action on 
this occasion arose from a generous impulse, although the form of the ques- 
tion he put to them has been sometimes held to suggest an interested mo- 
tive : “ What profit is it if we slay our brother and conceal his blood ? 
Come and let us sell him.” Gen. xxxvii, 26, 27. (2) Removes to Adullam. 

After the sale of Joseph Judah removed to Adullam, and married a woman 
of Canaan named Shuah, by whom he had three sons, Kr, Onan, and Shelah. 
Er married a woman whose name was Tamar, and dying childless, Judah 
bestowed his wife upon his second son, Onan, who also died without children. 
Judah was reluctant to bestow his only surviving son upon this woman, and 
put her off on the plea that he was not of sufficient age. (3) Judah’s Sin. 
Gen. xxxviii, 1-11. Tamar, actuated by the usual passion of Eastern women 
for children, conceived the plan of associating herself with Judah himself, 
under the guise of a loose woman. Having waylaid him on the road to 
Timnath, she accomplished her object. The result of the painful affair was 
the birth of two sons, Zara and Pharez. Gen. xxxviii, 12, sq. B. C. about 1727. 
(4) Becomes Leader. Though not the first-born, Judah “ prevailed above 
his brethren,” (1 Chron. v, 2 ;) and we find him subsequently taking a de- 
cided lead in all the affairs in the family. When it became necessary to go 
a second time into Egypt for food, he remonstrated with Jacob against his 
detention of Benjamin, and undertook to be responsible for the safety of 
the lad. Gen. xliii, 3-10. When the cup was found in Benjamin’s sack, and 
punishment from Joseph seemed imminent, Judah’s earnest prayer for his 
father and brethren and his offer of himself as slave, so moved upon his 
princely brother that he could no longer retain his secret. Gen. xliv, 16-34. 
So, too, it is Judah who is sent by Jacob to smooth the way for him in the 
land of Goshen. Gen. xlvi, 28. We hear nothing more of him till he re- 
ceived, along with his brethren, the final blessing of his father. Gen. xlix, 
8 - 12 . 

3. The Tribe of Judah. (1) Numbers. When Judah went into Egypt 

he had three sons, but so greatly did this family increase that it numbered, 
at the first census, 74,600, being first in population of all the tribes. At 
the second census it numbered 76,500, still retaining its rank. Its repre- 
sentative among the spies, and also among those appointed to partition the 
land, was the great Caleb, the son of Jephunneh. Num. xiii, 6. (2) Posi- 

tion. During the march through the desert Judah’s place was in the van 
of the host, on the east side of the tabernacle, with his kinsmen Issachar 
and Zebulun. Num. ii, 3-9; x, 14. According to rabbinical authority, Ju- 
dah’s standard was green, with the symbol of a lion. (Keil.) (3) Portion 
in Canaan. Judah was the first tribe which received its allotted possessions 
west of the Jordan, and this territory included fully one third of the whole 


326 


JUDAS. 


land. When the land was again distributed, by actual survey, a portion 
was given to Simeon. The boundaries and contents of the territory allotted 
to Judah are given at great length, Josh, xv, 20-63. [For full geographical 
data, see Whitney’s Hand-Book of Bible Geography; also M’Clintock and 
Strong’s Cyclopaedia .] (4) Relation to other Tribes. During the rule of 

the Judges Judah maintained an independent spirit toward the other tiibes; 
and while they acquiesced in the Benjamite Saul’s appointment as king, it 
could hardly have been with a very good grace, as may be inferred from 
the very small contingent they supplied to that monarch’s army against 
Amalek. 1 Sam. xv, 4. (5) As a Kingdom. When Judah established Da- 
vid as king and removed the sanctuary to Jerusalem, the Ephraimites were 
dissatisfied, and seized the first opportunity of setting up an independent 
kingdom. Then the history of Judah as a tribe lapsed into that of Judah 
as a kingdom. Then followed a varied history of wars, vassalage, and oc- 
casional prosperity. Against Judah were arrayed Israel, Egypt, Syria, and 
finally the country was ravaged by the king of Babylon ; Jerusalem was 
burnt with fire, the holy temple laid in ashes, the people taken away into 
captivity, and then Judah was no more. 2 Kings xxiv, xxv ; Jer. xxxix-xli. 

2. A Levite who returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel. Neh. xii, 8. 
B. C. about 536. He is perhaps the same person whose son aided in re- 
building the temple, (Ezra iii, 9,) although the latter may be the same as 
Hodaviah. Ezra ii, 40. 

3. The son of Seuuah, a Benjamite, and “ second over the city ” of Jeru- 
salem. Dr. Strong (see Cyclopaedia , s. v .) says that the true translation is, 
“ over the second city,” and that Judah was prefect over Acra, or the Lower 
City. Neh. xi, 9. B. C. 445. 

4. One of those (priest or Levite is not stated) who followed the Jewish 
princes around the southern portion of the rebuilt wall of Jerusalem. Neh. 
xii, 34. B. C. 445. He is perhaps identical with the musician named in 
ver. 36. 

JU'DAS, (the Greek form, ’I ovdag, of Judah.) 

1. The patriarch Judah , son of Joseph. Matt, i, 2, 3. 

2. Iscariot, (probably man of Kerioth,) the son of Simon. The derivation 
of the surname (Iscariot) has given rise to much speculation, though the 
above is the most probable. 

1. Personal History. (1) His Call. We learn nothing of Judas pre- 
vious to his call. (Matt, x, 4; Mark iii, 19; Luke vi, 16,) and yet the ap- 
pearance of his name in the lists of the apostles would seem to indicate 
that he had previously declared himself a disciple. It does not seem 
necessary to speculate upon the motives that influenced Judas to become a 
disciple, or to attempt a solution of the question why such a man was chosen 
for the office of an apostle. (2) As Treasurer. When the twelve became 
an organized body, traveling hither and thither, receiving money and other 
offerings, and distributing to the poor, it became necessary that some one 
should act as steward, and we learn (John xii, 4-6 ; xiii, 29) that this duty 
fell to Judas. And then, probably finding himself in possession of larger 
sums than before, there came covetousness, unfaithfulness, and embezzle- 
ment. John xii, 4-6. (3) Treachery Foretold. Some time previous to the 

betrayal of Jesus “ many of his disciples went back, and walked no more 
with him,” ( John vi, 66,) probably influenced by the disappointment of their 
earthly expectations, or fearful of coming evil. ]n deep sadness of heart 


JUDAS. 


327 


he asked his disciples the question, “ Will ye also go away ? ” Receiving 
assurances of faithfulness from the disciples through Peter, “Jesus an- 
swered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil ? 
He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should 
betray him, being one of the twelve,” (John vi, 70, 71;) indicating that 
even then the greed of immediate or the hope of larger gain kept him from 
“going back; ” that hatred was taking the place of love, and leading him 
on to a fiendish malignity. The scene at Bethany (Matt, xxvi, 6-13 ; Mark 
xiv, 3-9 ; John xii, 3-9) showed how deeply the canker had eaten into his 
soul. The warm outpouring of love calls forth no sympathy. He utters 
himself, and suggests to others, the complaint that it is a waste. Under 
the plea of care for the poor he covers his own miserable theft. (4) Be- 
trayal of Jesus. Previous to the feast of the passover Judas had gone to 
“ the chief priests and captains,” and covenanted with them for money to 
betray Jesus to them. Matt. xxvi. 14, sq. ; Mark xiv, 10, sq. ; Luke xxii, 3, 
sq. He seems to have concealed his treachery, however, for we find him 
still with the disciples. At the beginning of the last supper he is pres- 
ent, his feet are washed, he hears the fearful words, “ Ye are clean, but not 
all,” and the Master’s teaching the meaning of the act. John xiii, 2, sq. 
Reclining near Jesus, he hears him tell the disciples that “ One of you shall 
betray me,” and asks with the others, “Is it I?” And then, fully given 
over to the evil one, and beyond reclaim, Satan enters into him, and Jesus 
said unto him, “ That thou doest, do quickly.” Judas rose from the feast, 
and was a disciple no more, (Matt, xxvi, 20, sq.; John xiii, 26-30,) and shortly 
after he completed the betrayal. He knew the garden whither Jesus and 
the disciples often resorted, and he came accompanied by a band of officers 
and servants, to whom lie made known his Master by a kiss. Matt, xxvi, 47- 
49 ; Mark xiv, 43-45; Luke xxii, 47, 48 ; John xviii, 1-5. Jesus replied to 
that kiss with the words of stern, sad reproach, “Judas, betrayest thou 
the Son of man with a kiss?” Luke xxii, 48. (5) Remorse and Death. 

When Judas had time for reflection, and saw that Jesus was condemned, he 
was conscience-stricken. Returning to the priests, he confessed his crime 
and hurled down the money, which they refused to take. Matt, xxvii, 3-5. 
Feeling, perhaps, that there was for him no restoration, that he was. indeed, 
“ the son of perdition,” (John xvii, 12,) “he departed, and went and hanged 
himself.” Matt, xxvii, 5. He went “ to his own place.” Acts i, 25. 

3. Character. The strongest element in the character of Judas was 
doubtless avarice, and “ there is no vice at once so absorbing, so unreason- 
able, and so degrading as the vice of avarice.” The disappointment of 
every expectation which had first drawn him to Jesus, the intolerable re- 
buke of that sinless life, and, lastly, the sight of Mary’s lavish sacrifice, 
which brought no gain to himself, increased his alienation to repugnance 
and hate, so that Judas became capable of the deed that has given his name 
an everlasting stain. 

Difficulties.— Why Judas was chosen to the office of apostle is a question that 
naturally arises, but it is one we can hardly expect to solve. Let us, therefore, 
consider the discrepancy that seems to exist between the accounts of Judas’s death 
given in Matthew and Acts i. In Matt, xxvii, 5, it is stated that “ He cast down 
the pieces of silver in the temple and departed, and went and hanged himself.” 
In Acts i another account is given. There it is stated, (1) That instead of throwing 
the money into the temple he bought a field with it. (2) That instead of hanging 
himself, “ falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels 

21 


328 


JUDE — JULIA. 


gushed out.” (3) That for this reason, and not because the priests had bought it 
with the price of blood, the field was called Aceldama. Receiving both as authen- 
tic, we are yet led to the conclusion that the explanation is to be found in some 
unknown series of facts, of which we have but two fragmentary narratives. 
(Smith, Cyclopcedia.) It is, however, a reasonable supposition that, the rope break- 
ing, (or slipping,) Judas fell with such violence that his abdomen burst with the 
fall. 

3. Mentioned, with James, Judas, and Simon, as a son of Mary. Matt, 
xiii, 55 ; Mark vi, 3. 

4. Jude, Lebbeus, Thaddeus. 

1. Family. This apostle has been generally identified with “ Lebbeus 
whose surname was Thaddeus.” Matt, x, 3 ; Mark iii, 18. It is not agreed 
whether he is the same with that Judas who is mentioned as one of the 
Lord’s brethren. Matt, xiii, 55 ; Mark vi, 3. Luke (vi, 16 ; Acts i, 13) calls 
him 'lovdaq 'laiccjfiov, which in the English Authorized Version is translated 
“Judas, the brother of James.” Some, however, prefer to supply the ellipsis 
with the word son , and not brother. The probability is that Judas was a son 
of Joseph by Mary, the widow of his brother, (Alpheus.) This would 
make him a brother of James (the Less) and half-brother of Jesus. 
(M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopcedia, s. v .) 

2. Personal History. We find mention of Judas among the twelve 
apostles, (Matt, x, 3 ; Mark iii, 18 ; Luke vi, 16,) besides which the only 
circumstance recorded of him in the gospels consists in the question put by 
him to our Lord, (John xiv, 22:) “Judas saith unto him, (not Iscariot,) 
Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the 
world ? ” Nor have we any account of his proceedings after the resurrec- 
tion, for the traditions respecting him are lacking in authority, associating 
him with the foundation of the Church at Edessa. The author of the Epistle 
of Jude has usually been identified with Judas. 

5. Of Galilee, who stirred up a sedition among the Jews soon after the 
birth of Jesus. Acts v, 37. According to Josephus, he was born in Gamala, 
and the sedition occurred in A. D. 6. He was destroyed, and his followers 
scattered by Cyrenius, proconsul of Syria and Judea. 

6. A Jew who lived in Damascus, in the street called Straight, probably 
the “ Street of Bazaars.” Paul went thither to lodge, and Ananias went 
there by direction of God, and recovered Saul from his blindness. Acts 
ix, 11. A. D. 30. The so-called “ House of Judas” is still shown in an 
open space called “ the Sheyk’s Place,” a few steps out of the Street of 
Bazaars. 

7. Surnamed Barsabas, a disciple, and one of the deputation sent to con- 
firm the Syrian Christians. The epistle having been read to the Church 
assembled at Antioch, Judas and Silas exercised their prophetical gifts for 
the confirmation of the believers, after which Judas returned to Jerusalem. 
Acts xv, 22, 27, 32. A. D. 52, (47.) 

JUDE. See Judas, (No. 4.) 

JU'DITH, (Heb. Yehudith rPThT, Jewess ,) the daughter of Beeri, the 

Hittite, and one of Esau’s two wives. Gen. xxvi, 34. She is elsewhere 
called Aholibamah, (q. v.) 

JU'LIA, (Gr. ’I ovlia, feminine of Julius ,) a female disciple at Rome to 
whom Paul sent salutations. Rom. xvi, 15. 


JULIUS — KELAIAH. 


329 


JU'LIUS, the centurion who conducted Paul to Rome. At Sidon he 
allowed Paul to visit his friends, and treated him courteously throughout the 
voyage. Acts xxvii, 1, 3, 43. A. D. 62. 

JITNIA, or rather JU'NIAS, a Christian at Rome to whom Paul sent a 
salutation in connection with Andronicus as “ kinsmen and fellow-prisoners, 
who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before ” him- 
self. Rom. xvi, 7. A. D. 60. From his calling them kinsmen it is sup- 
posed that they were of Jewish extraction. 

JU'SHAB-HE'SED, (Heb. Yushab'- Che'sed , -|pn 35W, returner of 

kindness,) according to some, the son of Pedaiah, (I Chron. iii, 20 ;) but ac- 
cording to Keil ( Commentary , in loco ) the last-named of the sons of Zerub- 
babel. Keil thinks that the two groups of sons (vers. 19, 20) are mentioned 
separately because they had different mothers. 

JUS'TUS, (Gr. ’loOarof, just) 

1. The surname of Joseph, called also Barsabas, who, with Matthias, was 
selected by the apostles as candidates for the place made vacant by the 
apostasy of Judas Iscariot. Acts i, 23. 

2. A disciple living at Corinth, in whose house, near the synagogue, Paul 
preached to the Gentiles. Acts xviii, 7. B. C. 54. 

3. Called also Jesus, a Jewish Christian, named in connection with Mark 
by Paul, as being his “ only fellow- workers ” at Rome when he wrote to the 
Colossians. Col. iv, 11. B. C. 64. 

KAD'MIEli, (Heb. Kadmiel', before God.) 

1. One of the Levites who, with his family, returned from Babylon with 
Zerubbabel, and apparently a representative of the descendants of Hoda- 
viah, or, as he is elsewhere called, Hodaveh or Judah. Ezra ii, 40 ; Neh. 
vii, 43 ; xii, 8, 1 2, 24. He assisted in the various reforms of that period. 
Ezra iii, 9. B. C. 536. 

2. A Levite who assisted in leading the devotions of the people after they 
were taught the law by Ezra. Neh. ix, 4, 5. B. C. 445. He is thought to 
have been a son of Ho. 1. 

KAI/LAI, (Heb. Kallay ', i^p, runner ,) son of Sallai, and a chief priest 
in the time of the high-priest Joiakim. Neh. xii, 20. B. C. after 536. 

KARE'AH, (Heb. Kare'ach, rnp, bald,) the father of Johanan and Jon- 
athan, Jewish princes in the time of Gedaliah, the Babylonian governor of 
Jerusalem. Jer. xl, 8, 13, 15, 16; xii, 11, 13, 14, 16; xlii, 1, 8; xliii, 2, 4, 5. 
Elsewhere called Careah, (q. v.) 

KE'DAR, (Heb. Kedar "Hp, dark-skinned) the second son of Islimael, 

and father of the tribe bearing his name. Gen. xxv, 13 ; 1 Chron. i, 29. B. C. 
about 1800, (after 2061.) 

KED'EMAH, (Heb. Kedmah ', n£f|p, eastward) the last-named son of 

Ishmael, and probably head of an Arab tribe of the same name. Gen. 
xxv, 15; 1 Chron. i, 31. B. C. about 1800. 

KELAI'AH, (Heb. Kelayah ', JT^p, called also (Ezra x, 23) Kelita, (q. v.) 


330 


KELITA— KISH. 


KELTTA, or KELFTA, (Heb. Kelita ', dwarf ) one of the Le- 

vites who put away his Gentile wife after the captivity, (Ezra x, 23 ;) as- 
sisted Ezra to expound the law, (Nell, viii, 7 ;) and signed the covenant 
made by Nehemiali. Neh. x, 10. B. C. 456. 

KEMU'EL, or KEM'UEL, (Heb. KemueV, assembly of God.) 

1. One of the sons of Abraham’s brother Nahor, (Gen. xxii, 21.) and father 
ofBethuel. Gen. xxiv, 15. B. C. 1812. 

2. The son of Shiphtan, and commissioner to represent Ephraim in the 
partition of the land of Canaan. Num. xxxiv, 24. B. C. 1452. 

3. The father of Hashabiah, who was ruler of the Levites in the time of 
David. 1 Chron. xxvii, 17„ B. C. about 1015. 

KE'NAN, (1 Chron. i, 2.) See Cainan. 

KE'NAZ, (Heb. Kenaz ', nj?, a hunt.) 

1. One of the sons of Eliphaz, the first-born of Esau., He became chief 
of one of the Edomitisli tribes of Arabia Petraea. Gen. xxxvi, 11, 15; 
1 Chron. j, 36. B. C. about 1715. In Gen. xxxvi, 42; 1 Chron. i, 53, we 
have, according to Keil and Delitzsch, ( Commentary , in loco,) & list not of 
persons, but of capital cities of the several kingdoms. 

2. A brother of Caleb, and father of Othniel, who took Kirjatli-sepher 
and received Caleb’s daughter Achsah as a prize. Josh, xv, 17 ; Judg. 
i, 13 ; iii, 9, 11 ; 1 Chron. iv, 13. B. C. 1444. 

3. The son of Elah, and grandson of Caleb. 1 Chron. iv, 15. 

KE'REN-HAP'PUCH, (Heb. Ke'ren-hap-puk', pp, paint- horn, 

that is, cosmetic-box ,) the name given to the youngest daughter of Job after 
his restoration to posterity. Job xlii, 14. 

KE'ROS, (Heb. Keyros', DTP, or D“lp, curved ,) one of the Nethinim 

whose descendants returned with Zerubbabel to Jerusalem after the captiv- 
ity. Ezra ii, 44 ; Neh. vii, 47. B. C. before 536. 

KETU'RAH, (Heb. Keturah ', HTDp, incense ,) the second wife (or con- 
cubine, 1 Chron. i, 32) of Abraham. Gen. xxv, 1. By Abraham she had 
six sons, who, after they grew to manhood, were established “in the east 
country,” that they might not interfere with Isaac. It is generally supposed 
that she was married to Abraham after the death of Sarah, (B. C. I860;) 
but against this it is urged that it is very improbable that six sons should have 
been born to Abraham by one woman, and that, too, after he was 140 years 
old, and that he should have lived to see them arrive at adult age. It 
has therefore been suggested that Keturali had been Abraham’s secondary 
or concubine wife before the death of Sarah, and that she was raised to the 
dignity of a full wife after that event. 

KEZFA, (Heb. Ketsiah', njTVj?, cassia,) Job’s second daughter, born to 
him after his adversity. Job xlii, 14. 

KISH, (Heb. same, tpp, a bow or horn.) 

1. The father of King Saul. 1 Sam. ix, 3; x, 11, 21; xiv, 51; 1 Chron. 
ix, 39 ; xii, 1 : xxvi, 28. He was a wealthy Benjamite, the son of Ner, 


KISHI— KORAH. 


881 


(1 Chron. viii, 33 ; ix, 39,) and grandson of Abiel; the “son” of 1 Sam. ix, 1, 
being used in the general sense of male descendant. No incident respecting 
him is mentioned with the exception of his sending Saul after the lost asses, 
(1 Sam. ix, 3,) and that he was buried in Zelah. 2 Sam. xxi, 14. B. C. 
about 1095. He is called Gis in Acts xiii, 21. 

2. The third son of Jehiel (of Gibeon) and Maachah, a Benjamite of Je- 
rusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 30; ix, 36. B. C. about 1618. 

3. The second son of Mahli, (grandson of Levi.) His sons married 
their cousins, the daughters of his brother Eleazar. 1 Chron. xxiii, 21, 22; 
xxiv, 29. B. C. probably about 1490. 

4. Another Levite, also of the family of Merari. He was the son of Abdi, 
and assisted Hezekiah in cleansing the temple. 2 Chron. xxix, 12. B. C. 726. 

5. A Benjamite, and great-grandfather of Mordecai. Esther ii, 5. B. C. 
considerably before 518. 

KISH'I, (1 Chron. vi, 44.) See Kushaiah. 

KIT'TIM, or CHIT'TIM, (Heb. Kittim', Dm plural form,) not a son, 

but a branch of the descendants of Javan, the son of Japheth. Gen. x, 4 ; 
1 Chron. i, 7. 

KO'HATH, (Heb. Kohath nn£, assembly ,) the second son of Levi, (Gen. 

xlvi, 11,) and the father of Am ram, Izehar, Hebron, and Uzziel. Num. 
iii, 19. Of his personal history we only know that he went down to Egypt 
with Levi and Jacob, (Gen. xlvi, 11 ;) that his sister was Jochebed, (Exod. 
vi, 20 ;) and that he lived to the age of 133 years. Exod. vi, 18. His descend- 
ants, the Kohathites, formed one of the three great divisions of the Levites, 
and contained the priestly family descended from Aaron. Exod. vi, 18-20. 
In the service of the tabernacle their duty was to bear the ark and the 
sacred vessels. Num. iv, 15; vii, 9. B. C. 1706. The inheritance of the 
Kohathites who were not priests lay in the half-tribe of Manasseh in Ephra- 
im (1 Chron. vi, 61-70) and in Dan. Josh, xxi, 5, 20-26. 

KOLAI'AH, (Heb. Kolayah', n£p, voice of Jehovah.) 

1. A Benjamite, and remot^ancestor of Sallu, which latter dwelt in Jeru- 
salem after the captivity. Nell, xi, 7. B. C. long before 445. 

2. The father of Ahab, which latter was a false prophet denounced by 
Jeremiah. Jer. xxix, 21. B. C. before 599. 

KO'RAH, (Heb. Ko'rach , nip, ice.) 

1. The third son of Esau by his Canaanite concubine Aholibamah. Gen. 
xxxvi, 5, 14, 18; 1 Chron. i, 35. B. C. about 1760. He became the head 
of a petty Edoraitish tribe. Gen. xxxvi, 18, where “duke” means “tribe 
head.” “ Korah in Gen. xxxvi, 16, has probably been copied by mistake 
from ver. 18.” (Keil and Delitzsch, in loco.) 

2. The Levite who conspired with Dathan and Abiram against Moses. 

1. Family. Korah was the son of Izhar, the brother of Amram, the 
father of Moses and Aaron. Exod. vi, 21 ; Num. xvi, 1. 

2. Personal History. About all that we know of Korah is in connec- 
tion with the conspiracy of which he was one of the leaders. (1) Reasons 
for Conspiracy. Korah was probably influenced by jealousy because the high 
honors and privileges of the priesthood had been exclusively appropriated by 
the family of Aaron. Moses having supreme authority in civil affairs, the 


332 KORE— KOZ. 

whole power over the nation would seem to have been engrossed by him 
and Aaron. (2) Complaint. Having joined to himself Dathan and Abiram, 
and 250 “ princes of the assembly,” Korah appeared with them before Moses 
and Aaron, and charged them with public usurpation. Moses no sooner 
heard this charge than he fell upon his face, as if to refer the matter to the 
Lord, (Num. xiv, 5,) and declared that the decision should be left to the 
Lord. He told them to appear the next day with censers and incense. 
(3) Destruction. The next day the rebels presented themselves before 
the tabernacle, along with Moses and Aaron; and the whole congre- 
gation were gathered at the instigation of Korah. The Shekinah ap- 
peared, and a voice commanded Moses and Aaron to separate themselves 
from the congregation, that they might not share in its destruction for 
making common cause with the conspirators. The two leaders prayed that 
the people might be spared, and that Jehovah would confine his wrath to the 
leaders of the rebellion. The congregation, instructed by Moses, withdrew, 
and, after Moses had appealed to what was about to happen as a proof of 
the authority by which he had acted, the earth opened and then closed 
over the fallen tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram. The other 250 
rebels, who were probably in front of the tabernacle, were then consulted 
by “ fire from the Lord.” Num. xvi, 1-35. B. C. about 1471. The censers 
of the rebels were made into plates to form an outer covering to the altar, a 
warning of this judgment of God. Yer. 37, sq. The next morning the whole 
congregation murmured against Moses and Aaron, and charged them with 
having slain the people of Jehovah. Notwithstanding the prayers of Moses 
and his brother, they could not avert the bursting forth of wrathful judg- 
ment. A plague destroyed 14,700, (chap, xvi, 41-50,) and the high -priest- 
hood of Aaron was confirmed. Chap. xvii. As the descendants of Korah 
afterward became eminent in the Levitical service, it is clear that his sons 
were spared. They were probably living in separate tents, or separated 
themselves from the conspirators at the command of Moses. He is referred 
to in Num, xxvi, 9-11; 1 Chron. vi, 22, 37. In Jude (ver. 11) Korah is 
held up as a warning to presumptuous and self-seeking teachers. 

3. The eldest of the four sons of Hebron, of the family of Caleb and tribe 
of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 43. B. C. considerably after 1471. 

KO'RE, (Heb. Kore ', tflip, a partridge.) 

1. A Levite, the son of Ebiasaph, and father of Shallum, who was door- 
keeper of the tabernacle. 1 Chron. ix, 19. In 1 Chron. xxvi, 1, Kore is 
named as the father of Meshelemiah, (or Shelemiah,) a temple-warden. B. C. 
about 1015. 

2. (1 Chron. xxvi, 19,) erroneous translation for KoraJutes. 

3. Son of Imnali, a Levitical keeper of the east gate, appointed by Heze- 
kiali to receive the thank-offerings and distribute them to the priests. 2 Chron 
xxxi, 14. B. C. 726. 

KOZ, (Heb. Kots , pp, a thorn,) the head of the seventh division of 
priests according to the arrangement of David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 10, where 
the name is translated Hakkoz. B. C. 1014. He is probably the same 
whose descendants were excluded by Nehemiah from the priesthood be- 
cause of their defective pedigree. Ezra ii, 61 ; Neh. vii, 63. To the same 
family seems to have belonged Meremoth, who repaired two portions of the 
walls of Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 4, 21. See Coz. 


KtfSHAlAH — LABAN. 


333 


KUSHAI'AH, (Heb. Kushaya'hu, JUTK^Ip, bow of Jehovah , that is, rain- 
bow,) a Merarite Levite, whose son Ethan was appointed a chief assistant 
of Heman in the temple music by David. 1 Chron. xv, 17. B. 0. 1015. In 
1 Chron. vi, 44, he is called Kishi. 


LA' ADAH, (Heb. Ladah rrnyk order,) the second son of Shelah, (son 

of Judah,) and “father” (founder) of Mareshah. 1 Chron. iv, 21. B. C. 
after 1700. 

LA'ADAN, (Heb. Ladan ', arranger.) 

1. An Ephraimite, the son of Tahan, and grandfather of Elishama, which 
latter was prince of his tribe at the exodus. 1 Chron. vii, 26. B. C. before 
1490. 

2. The first-named of the two sons of Gershom, the son of Levi. 
1 Chron. xxiii, 7, 8, 9. He is called Libni, 1 Chron. vi, 17. Keil {Com- 
mentary, in loco) thinks that Laadan was a later descendant of Gershom 
than Libni, and that the Shimei of ver. 9 was a descendant of Libni, not 
elsewhere mentioned. 

LA'BAN, (Heb. Laban', p$), white,) the son of Bethuel, (Gen. xxviii, 5,) 

grandson of Nahor, Abraham’s kinsman, and brother of Rebekah. Gen. xxiv, 
15, 29 ;) an Aramaean herd-owner of Mesopotamia. He united with his father, 
according to the usual custom in consenting to the marriage of Rebekah to 
Isaac. Gen. xxiv, 50, sq. B. C. 1857. When their son Jacob became of 
marriageable age his parents directed him to take a wife from the daughters 
of Laban, and Jacob complied. Gen. xxviii, 2, 5. Laban arranged with his 
nephew to give him Rachel to wife on condition of seven years’ service, 
but on the wedding night led Leah, his eldest daughter, into the bride- 
chamber. When complained to by Jacob he gave the weak excuse, “ It 
must not be so done in our country, to give the younger before the first- 
born.” But, to satisfy Jacob, he promised to give him Rachel in a week if 
he would serve him seven years longer. To this Jacob consented, and eight 
days later was wedded to the woman he loved. Chap, xxix, 15-30. B. C. 
1760-1746. At the end of the second period of seven years Jacob desired 
to return to Canaan, but Laban persuaded him to remain, and made a con- 
tract with him to keep his flocks. By a cunning artifice Jacob made this 
bargain result greatly to his own advantage, (chap, xxx, 25-43,) and at the 
end of six years left stealthily for his former home. Chap, xxxi, 1-21. 
Three days after, Laban, hearing of Jacob’s flight, started in pursuit, and 
overtook him on the seventh day at Mount Gilead. The night before he 
was warned by God in a dream “ not to speak to Jacob either good or bad,” 
that is, not to threaten or persuade him to return. He confined himself to 
bitter reproaches ; told Jacob that he had power to do him harm if God had 
not forbidden him, and accused him of stealing his gods, (the teraphim.) Ra- 
chel concealed the theft by resorting to a trick well calculated to deceive. 
Thereupon Jacob grew angry and remonstrated with Laban, who at once 
proposed a covenant of peace. This was celebrated with a feast, and the 
next morning Laban departed to his own place. Chap, xxxi, 22, sq. B. C. 
1739. 


384 


LAEL — LAZARUS. 


LA'EL, (Heb. Lael ', of God, that is, created by him ; or to God, that 

is, devoted to him,) the father of Eliasapli, who was chief of the Gershon- 
ites at the time of the Exodus. Num. iii, 24. B. C. 1490. 

LA'HAD, (Heb. same, inf), oppression ,) the second of the two sons of 
Jahath, a descendant of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 2. B. C. after 1490. 

LAH'MI, (Heb. Lachmi', my brother ,) named as the brother of 

Goliath, and slain by Elhanan. 1 Chron. xx, 5. Dr. Strong (M’Clintock and 
Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v.) considers this an incorrect reading for Beth-lehem- 
ite, as in the parallel passage. 2 Sam. xxi, 19. Winer, Keil, Deutsch, Grove, 
and others, maintain that Chronicles give the true reading. 

LA'ISH, (Heb. La'yish, a lion,) a native of Gallim, a Benjamite, to 

whose son Phalti Saul gave David’s wife Michal. 1 Sam. xxv, 44; 2 Sam. 
iii, 15. B. C. before 1060. 

LA'MECH, (Heb. Le'mek, 7|e6, taster , or vigorous youth.) 

1. The fifth in descent from Cain, being the son of Methusae) and the 
father of Jabal, Jubal, Tubal-cain, and the latter’s sister, Naamah. Gen. iv, 
18-22. B. C. probably about 3700. Lamech took two wives, Adah and 
Zillah, and was thus the first to practice polygamy. To the narrative of 
Lamech we are indebted for the only example of antediluvian poetry. Vers. 
23, 24 : 

“ Adah and Zillah, hear my voice ; 

Wives of Lamech, hearken unto my speech : 

For a man I slew for my wound. 

And a young man for my stripes. 

For sevenfold is Cain avenged, 

And Lamech seven-and-seventyfold.” 

Many views have been entertained as to the meaning of these words. 
Keil ( Commentary , in loco) says that “in the ‘form of pride and arrogance 
Lamech celebrates the inventions of Tubal-cain ; ” and the idea of the song 
is, “ Whoever inflicts a wound or stripe on me, whether man or youth, I 
will put to death; and for every injury done to my person I will take ten 
times more vengeance than that with which God promised to avenge the 
murder of my ancestor Cain.” Turner ( Companion to Genesis, p. 209) says 
“ that he had slain a young man, not in cold blood, but in consequence of 
a wound or bruise he had himself received ; and on the ground, apparently, 
of a difference between his case and that of Cain’s — namely, that he had 
done under provocation what Cain had done without it — he assures himself 
of an interest in the divine guardianship greater than that granted to Cain. 

2. The son of Methuselah and father of Noah. He lived to be 777 
years of age. Gen. v, 25-31 ; 1 Chron. i, 3 ; Luke iii, 36. B. C. 3130-2353. 

IiAP'IDOTH, (Heb. Lappidoth', niTQ^ torches ,) the husband of the 
prophetess Deborah. Judg. iv, 4. B. C. about 1316. 

LAZ'ARUS, (Gr. A ufcpoc, abridged form of Heb. Eleazar.) 

1. A beggar named in the parable of Dives, (Luke xvi, 20-25,) whose 
patient piety in this world was rewarded with bliss in the other. This is 
the only instance of a proper name being given in a parable. 


LEAH — LEMUEL. 


§35 


i l. A man of Bethany, and the brother of Mary and Martlia. He was a 
personal friend of Jesus, by whom he was raised from the dead four days 
after his burial. John xi, 1-44. A. D. 33, (29.) Later, when a supper was 
given to our Lord, Lazarus was present, and many people gathered through 
a desire to see the resurrected man. So convincing an evidence of Jesus’ 
power was very distasteful to the chief priests, and they “ consulted that 



BETHANY, MOUNT OF OLIVES, AND JERUSALEM. 


they might put Lazarus also to death.” Chap, xii, 1-10. This they proba- 
bly did not do, but satisfied themselves with the death of Jesus. Accord- 
ing to an old tradition in Epiphanius, ( Hcer ., Ixvi, 34, p. 652,) Lazarus was 
thirty years old when restored to life, and lived thirty years after. 

XiE'AH, (Heb. Leah', nX^, weary,) the eldest daughter of Laban, who, 

by a deceit of her father, became the wife of Jacob. Gen. xxix, 16-23. 
She was not so good-looking as her sister Rachel, having weak eyes, 
which is probably the reason of Jacob’s preference for the younger sister. 
Leah had six sous, Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, (Gen. xxix, 32-35.) Issa- 
char, and Zebulun, (Gen. xxx, 17-20,) and a daughter, Dinah. Ver. 21. 
She probably died in Canaan, as she is not mentioned in the migration to 
Egypt, (chap, xlvi, 6,) and was buried in Hebron. Chap, xlix, 31. B. C. 
1753. 

LEB'ANA, (Nell, vii, 48.) See Lebanah. 

LEB'ANAH, (Heb. Lebanah white, poetic of the moon,) one of 

the Nethinim whose descendants returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. 
Ezra ii, 45 ; Neh. vii, 48. B. C. about 536. 

LEBBE'US, or LEBBiE'US, (Gr. A e(3(3aioc, courageous,) a surname of 
Judas, or Jude, (Matt, x, 3,) one of the twelve apostles. He was called also 
Thaddaeus, which Meyers ( Commentary , in loco) thinks was his regular 
apostolic name. 

LEM'UEL, (Heb. Lemuel ', of God , supply created,) a person of 

whom nothing is known, except that to him the admonitory apothegms of 
Prov. xxxi, 2-9, were addressed by his mother. The rabbinical com- 
mentators identify Lemuel with Solomon, which seems the most likely con- 


886 


LETUSH1M — LEVI. 


jecture. Others (as Grotius) refer the epithet to Hezekiah, while others (as 
Gesenius) think that it refers to some neighboring petty Arabian prince. 

LETU'SHIM, (Heb. Letushim ', hammered ,) the second son of 

Dedan, grandson of Abraham by Keturah. Gen. xxv, 3. B. C. consider- 
ably after 1853. 

LEUM'MIM, (Heb. Leummim', peoples ,) the last of the three 

sons of Dedan, grandson of Abraham by Keturah. Gen. xxv, 3. B. C. con- 
siderably after 1853. 

LE'VI, (Heb. Levi', *1^, & joining.) 

1. The third son of Jacob and Leah. Gen. xxix, 34. B. C. 1*750. 

1. Personal History. (1) Avenges Dinah. One fact alone is recorded 

in which Levi appears prominent. His sister Dinah (q. v.) was seduced by 
Shecnem, and, according to the rough usage of the times, the stain could 
only be washed out by blood. Simeon and Levi took this task upon them- 
selves. Covering their scheme with fair words and professions of friend- 
ship, they committed a cowardly and repulsive crime. Gen. xxxiv. (2) Levi 
and Joseph. Levi shared in the hatred which his brothers bore to Joseph, 
and joined in the plots against him. Gen. xxxvii, 4. (3) Migrates to Egypt. 

With his three sons, Gershon, Kohath, and Merari, Levi went down into 
Egypt, (Gen. xlvi, 11,) and as one of the four eldest sons we may think of 
him as among the five (Gen. xlvii, 2) specially presented to Pharaoh. Then 
comes the last scene, when Jacob, on his death-bed, recalls Levi’s old 
crime and expresses his abhorrence of it. Gen. xlix, 5—7. 

2. Tribe of Levi. According to commandment, the Levites were not 
numbered, but were specially assigned to the sacred service of the taber- 
nacle. Num. i, 49, sq. Aaron and his sons were constituted an hereditary 
priesthood, (Exod. xxviii, 1 ;) the Kohathites had charge of the sacred ves- 
sels, the ark included, (Num. iii, 31 ;) the Gershonites of the hangings and 
curtains of the tabernacle, (Num. iv, 22-26;) while the sons of Merari had 
the care of the board and pillars. Num. iv, 31 , 32. Moses also gave the 
Levites judicial authority, (Deut. xvii, 8-12.) and made them keepers of the 
book of the law. Dent, xxxi, 9, 25/26. After the temple was built they 
acted as porters, musicians, and assis’ants of the priests. They were not 
to enter on their active service till they were thirty, (Num. iv, 23, 30, 35,) 
and at fifty they were free from all duties but those of superintendence. Num. 
viii, 25, 26. Provision was made for the support of the Levites bv levying 
a tribute of one tenth of all the produce of the land, they having no territo- 
rial estates. Num. xviii, 20, 24. From these tithes they, in turn, gave one 
tenth to the priests, as a recognition of their higher consecration. Num. 
xviii, 21, 26, 28. Besides this, forty-eight cities, with their suburbs, situ- 
ated in different parts of the land, were allotted them to dwell in. Josh, xxi, 
41, 42. Six of these were “cities of refuge.” Num. xxxv, 6; Josh, xx, 
7-9.) There appears to have been a constant struggle between the Levit- 
ical order and the old household priesthood, and it was only under David 
that the Levites gained their position of honor and influence apparently in- 
tended for them. Upon the revolt of the ten tribes Jeroboam wished to 
make the priests the creatures and instruments of the king, and to estab- 
lish a provincial and divided worship. The tribe of Levi, residing within 
the bounds of the kingdom of Israel, left their cities and gathered round 


LlBNl — LOT. 


837 


the metropolis of Judah. 2 Chron. xi, 13, 14. After the captivity we find 
them present, (though in disproportionately small numbers,) and taking 
part in the foundation and dedication of the temple. Ezra iii, 10; vi, 18. 
They appear but seldom in the New Testament history, where their name is 
the type of a formal, heartless worship, without sympathy and without 
love. Luke x, 32. 

2. Father of Matthat and son of Melchi, third preceding Mary among 
the ancestors of Jesus. Luke iii a 24. B. C. considerably before 22. 

3. The father of another Matthat, and son of Simeon, in the maternal 
line between David and .Zerubbabel. Luke iii, 29. B. C. after 816. 

LIB'NI, (Heb. Libni', '¥& white,) the first son of Gershon, the son of 

Levi. Exod. vi, 11 ; Num. iii, 18, 21 ; 1 Chron. vi, 11. B. C. after 1106. 
His descendants are called Libnites. Num. iii, 21; xxvi, 58. 

2. The son of Mahli, son of Merari. 1 Chron. vi, 29. It is probable that 
he is the same with the preceding, and that something has been omitted 
from the text. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v .) 

LIK'HI, (Heb. Likchi ', learned ,) the third-named of the four sons 

of Shemidah, son of Manasseh. 1 Chron. vii, 19. B. C. after 1106. 

LI'NUS, (Gr. A Ivoc, perhaps from A/Vov, linen,) one of the Christians at 
Rome whose salutations Paul sent to Timothy. 2 Tim. iv, 21. A. D. 64. 

LO-AM'MI, (Heb. Lo-Ammi', not my people,) a symbolical name 

given by the prophet Hosea, at the divine command, to his second son, as a 
token of the rejection of Israel by the Lord. Hosea i, 9. B. C. about 185. 

LOTS, (Gr. A uig, perhaps agreeable ,) the maternal grandmother of Tim- 
othy, his father being a Greek. Acts xvi, 1. She was commended by the 
apostle Paul for her faith. 2 Tim. i, 5. B. C. before 66. 

LO-RUHA'MAH, (Heb. Lo-Rucha'mah, HOm not jpitied,) the name 

which Jehovah directed Hosea to give to his daughter by Gomer, in token 
of his temporary rejection of Israel by the Babylonish captivity because of 
their idolatry. Hosea i, 6, 8. B. C. about 185. In chap, ii, 23, the words 
are translated. 

LOT, (Heb. same, a covering,) the son of Haran and nephew of 
A^braham. 

1. Family. The following genealogy exhibits the family relations : 


Terah. 


Hagar to Abram to Sarai. 

Nali or to Milcab. 

Haran. 

1 

| 

Ishmael. Isaac. 

1 

Betlluel. 

1 

Lot. Milcah to Nahor. 

1 

Esau. Jacob. 

f 

Rebekah. Laban. 

1 

Daughter. Daughter. 


Leah. Rachel. 

| 

Moab. Ben-Ammi. 

See Gen. xi, 21, sq. 

B. C. after 2056. 



ass 


LOTAtf. 


2. Personal History. Lot’s father dying, (Gen. xi, 28,) he was left in 
charge of his grandfather, Terah, with wiiom he migrated to Haran. Chap, 
xi, 31. B. C. 1923. After the death of Terah Lot accompanied Abraham 
to Canaan, (chap, xii, 4, 5,) B. C. 1921, and thence to Egypt, and back again 
to Canaan. Chap, xii, 10; xiii, 1. (1) Separation. The flocks and herds of 
both increased so greatly that the land did not furnish pasture enough, and, 
consequently, disputes arose between their herdsmen. To put an end to 
strife Abraham proposed a separation, and magnanimously left the choice 
of territory to his nephew, who selected the plain of Jordan and fixed his 
abode at Sodom. Chap, xiii, 5-12. B. C. 1917. (2) A Prisoner. A few 

years after, B. C. about 1913, Lot was carried away prisoner by Clierdorla- 
omer, along with other captives from Sodom, but was rescued and brought 
back by Abraham. Gen. xiv, 12-1G. (3) Escape from Sodom. When Jeho- 

vah had determined to destroy Sodom, Lot was still residing there, and, sit- 
ting at the city-gate, met the messengers (angels) of the Lord. He pressed 
them to pass the night at his house, and they yielded to his entreaty. 
While they were at supper the house was beset by a number of the in- 
habitants, who demanded, with the basest violation of hospitality, that the 
strangers should be delivered up to them for a most shameful purpose. 
Lot went out to them, shut the door behind him to protect his guests, and 
resisted the base demands of the crowd. This enraged them still more, 
and they were about to break in the door when the angels pulled Lot into 
the house, shut the door, and smote the people with blindness. Lot was 
then informed of the coming destruction of the city, and exhorted to re- 
move his family, and in the morning was hastened away by the angels. 
Instead of cheerfully obeying, the commandment to flee to the mountain, 
Lot entreated that he might be allowed to take refuge iu Zoar, the smallest 
of the cities of the plain. While on their way Lot’s wife, disobedient to 
the divine command, “Look not behind thee,” lingered behind, probably 
from a longing for her home and earthly possessions, and “ became a pillar 
of salt.” (See Difficulties.) Lot, actuated by fear, soon left Zoar, and 
removed to a cave in the neighboring mountains. Gen. xix, 1-30. B. C. 
1898. (4) Daughters’ Crime. While there his daughters, dreading the 

extinction of their family, resolved to procure children through their father. 
This they succeeded in doing by making him drunk with wine, and in that 
state seducing him into an act of which he would not in soberness have 
been guilty. The son of the elder daughter was Moab, and of the younger 
Ben-ammi, or Ammon. Gen. xix, 31-38. Lot is not mentioned again, and 
the time and place of his death are unknown. 

Difficulties— L ot’s wife. The turning of Lot’s wife into a pillar of salt has 
often been regarded as one of the difficulties of the Bible, but is not so necessa- 
ri y. “ We are not to suppose that she was actually turned into one, but having 
been killed by the fiery and sulphureous vapor with which the air was filled, and 
afterward incrusted with salt, she resembled an actual statue of salt.”— Keil and 
Delitzsch, Commentary , in loco. Lot’s daughters. The narrative of the conduct 
of these women is related without comment by the sacred writer. There is no 
concealment, no extenuation. The very fact of their securing Lot’s intoxication 
is evidence that he was too good a man to accede to their wishes while in his 
right mind. 

LO'TAN, (Heb. Lotan\ jtpft, covering ,) the first-named son of Seir the 

Horite, and a prince of Idumaea prior to the ascendency of the Esauites. 
Gen. xxxvi, 20, 29 ; 1 Chron. i, 38. B. C. about 1840. His sons were 


LUCAS — LUKE. 


339 


Ilori and Heraan, (or Homan,) (Gen. ' xxxvi, 22; 1 Chron. i, 39,) and, 
through his sister, Timna, he was related to Eliphaz, Esau’s son. Gen. 
xxxvi, 12. 

LU'CAS, (Gr. Aovkuc,) a “ fellow-laborer ” of Paul during his imprison- 
ment at Rome. Philera. 24. A. D. 64. He is doubtless the same as Luke, 
(q. v.) 

LU'CIFER, (Heb. HeyleV , probably shining one,) a word in the 

English Version, 

“ How art thou fallen from heaven, 

O Lucifer, son of the morning ! ” Isa. xiv, 12. 

It is taken from the Vulgate, which understood the Hebrew word to be tho 
name of the morning-star, and therefore rendered it Lucifer, that is, “light- 
bearing.” “Lucifer, as a name given to the devil, was derived from this 
passage, which the fathers interpreted, without any warrant whatever, as 
relating to the apostasy and punishment of the angelic leaders. The ap- 
pellation is a perfectly appropriate one for the king of Babel, on account of 
the early date of the Babylonish culture, which reached back as far as the 
gray twilight of primeval times, and also because of its predominant astro- 
logical character.” — Delitzsch, Commentary , in loco. 

LU'CIUS, (Gr. A ovkioc, for Lat. Lucius, surnamed the Cyrenian,) one of 
the “ prophets and teachers” at Antioch who, at the command of the Holy 
Ghost, ordained Barnabas and Saul. Acts xiii, 1. A. D. 45. 

LUDj (Heb. same, derivation unknown,) the fourth son of Shem, and 
founder, probably, of the Lybians. Gen. x, 22 ; 1 Chron. i, 17. B. 0. after 
2347. 

LUKE, (Gr. A ovuag, for Lat. Lucanus ,) the evangelist and author of the 
Acts of the Apostles. 

1. Personal History. The materials found in Scripture for a life of 
Luke are very scanty, and seem to yield the following results: 1. That 
Luke was of pagan origin. This is inferred from the fact that he is not 
reckoned among those “ who are of the circumcision.” Col. iv, 11 ; compare 
v, 14. 2. That he was not “ an eye-witness and minister of the word fivm 

the beginning.” Luke i, 2, 3. On the supposition of Luke’s being the au- 

thor of the Acts, we gather from those passages in which the first person. 
we, is employed the following information : that he joined Paul’s company 
at Troas and sailed with them to Macedonia, (Acts xvi, 10, 11 ;) he accom- 
panied Paul as far as Philippi, (chap, xvi, 25-xvii, 1,) but did not share his 
persecution nor leave the city, for here the third person, they, is used The 
first person, we, does not re-appear until Paul comes to Philippi at the end 
of his third journey, (chap, xx, 5,) from which it is inferred that Luke spent 
the intervening time — a period of seven or eight years — in the city or 
neighborhood ; and as the we continues to the end of the book, that Luke 
remained with Paul during his journey to Jerusalem, (Acts xx, 6-xxi, 18,) 
was that apostle’s companion to Rome, (chap, xxvii, 1,) sharing his ship- 
wreck, (chap, xxviii, 2,) and reaching the imperial city by way of Syracuse 
and Puteoli. Chap, xxviii, 1 2-1 6. According to the epistles he continued to 
be Paul’s “ fellow-laborer ” till the end of his first imprisonment. Philem. 
24 ; Col. iv, 14. The last glimpse of the “ beloved physician ” (2 Tim. iv, 11) 
discovers him to be faithful amid general defection. A. D. 48-64. 


340 


LYDIA— MAACAH. 


LYD'IA, (Gr. A vdia,) a seller of purple of the city of Thyatira, who 
dwelt in Philippi. She was not by birth a Jewess, but a proselyte, as the 
phrase “who worshiped God” imports. Converted by the preaching of 
Paul, and baptized by him, she pressed upon him the use of her house so 
earnestly that he was constrained to accept. Acts xvi, 14, 15. A. D. 53, 
(47.) Whether she was one of “ those -women who labored with Paul in 
the Gospel ” at Philippi (Phil, iv, 3) it is impossible to say. 

LYSA / NIAS, (Gr. A vaaviag,) named by Luke (iii, 1) as tetrarch of Abi- 
lene, on the eastern slope of the anti-Lebanon, near Damascus, at the be- 
ginning of John the Baptist’s ministry. Objection has been made to the 
truth of Luke’s statement because there reigned in this country, about fifty 
years before this, a king named Lysanias. The probability is that this was 
a younger Lysanias, who was not king, but simply tetrarch. 

LYS'IAS, (Gr. Avoiac,) Claudius, the “chief captain” in command of 
the Roman troops in Jerusalem, who rescued Paul from the fury of the 
Jews, (Acts xxi, 31-38 ; xxii, 24-30,) and sent him under guard to the proc- 
urator Pelix at Caesarea. Chap, xxiii, 17-30 ; xxiv, 7, 22. A. D. 60, (55.) 


MA'ACAH, or MA'ACHAH, (Heb. Maakah ', ["DVD, oppression.) 

1 . The last-named of the four children of Nahor by his concubine Reu- 
mah. Gen. xxii, 24. B. C. about 1872. Whether this child was son or 
daughter is not stated. 

2. One of David’s wives, and the mother of Absalom. She was the 
daughter of Talmai, king of the Geshur lying to the north of Judah. 2 Sam. 
iii, 3. B. C. about 1053. 

3. “King Maacah ” (2 Sam. x, 6) should read king of Maacah , as the 
word is here the name of a place. 

4. The father of Achish, king of Gath, to whom Shimei went iu pursuit 
of two runaway servants, and by so doing forfeited his life by going be- 
yond the limits prescribed by Solomon. 1 Kings ii, 39. B. C. before 1011. 

5. The mother of King Abijam. She was the daughter of Abishalom 
and wife of Relioboam. 1 Kings xv, 2. B. C. about 958. In ver. 10 she 
is called the “ mother ” of Asa, but there “ mother” is used in a loose sense, 
and means “grandmother.” The following seem to be the facts: Maachah 
was the granddaughter of Absalom (Abishalom) and the daughter of 
Tamar, (Absalom’s only daughter,) and her husband was Uriel of Gibeah. 
2 Chron. xi, 20-22 ; xiii, 2. Because of the abuse of her power as “queen- 
mother” in encouraging idolatry, Asa “removed her from being queen.” 
1 Kings xv, 10-13; 2 Chron. xv, 16. 

6. The second-named of the concubines of Caleb, (son of Hezron,) and 
the mother by him of several children. 1 Chron. ii, 48. B. C. before 1491. 

7. The sister of Huppim and Shuppim, and wife of Machir, by whom 
she had two sons. 1 Chron. vii, 15, 1 6. 

8. The wife of Jehiel and mother of Gibeon. 1 Chron. viii, 29; ix, 35. 
B. C. about 1491. 

9. The father of Hanan, one of David’s valiant men. 1 Chron. xi, 43 
B. C. about 1047. 

10. The father of Shephatiah, military chief of the Simeonites in the time 
of David. 1 Chron. xxvii, 16. B. C. about 1015, 


MAACHAH — MAASEIAH. 


341 


MA'ACHAH, another form for Maacah, and found in Gen. xxii, 24 ; 
1 Kings ii, 39; xv, 2, 10, 13 ; 1 Chron. ii, 48 ; iii, 2 ; vii, 15, 16; xiii, 29; 
ix, 35 ; xi, 43; xix, 6, 7 ; xxvii, 16; 2 Chron. xi, 20-22 ; xv, 16. 

MA'ADAI, (Heb. Maiiday', 'Hyp. ornamental,) a Jew of the family of 

Bani, who divorced his Gentile wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 34. B. C. 
456. 

MAADFAH, (Heb. Mdadyah', myp, ornament of Jehovah ,) one of the 

priests who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Neh. xii, 5. B. C. 
about 536. He is thought to be the same with Moadiah. Yer. 17. 

MA'AI, (Heb. Maay\ 'y£, perhaps compassionate ,) one of the priests 

appointed to perform the music at the celebration of the completion of the 
walls of Jerusalem after the exile. Neh. xii, 36. B. C. 445. 

MAASEFAH, (Heb. Maaseyah ', iYt^yD, or Maaseya'hu , JUV^yiD, work 
of Jehovah.) T "" : ” T " 

1. One of the Levites of the second class appointed musicians “ with 
psalteries upon Alamoth,” at the bringing up of the ark from the house of 
Obed-edom. 1 Chron. xv, 18, 20. B. C. about 1042. 

2. One of the “ captains of hundreds ” who assisted the high-priest Je- 
hoiada in raising Joash to the throne of Judah. 2 Chron. xxiii, 1. B. C. 
878. 

3. A “ruler” (steward) who assisted Jeiel the scribe in arranging the 
army of King Uzziah. 2 Chron. xxvi, 11. B. C. 810. 

4. A person slain by Zichri, an Ephraimite hero, in the invasion of Judah 
by Pekah, king of Israel. 2 Chron. xxviii, 7. B. C. about 741. Maaseiah 
is called the “king’s son;” but this should not, probably, be interpreted 
literally, “ for in the first years of his reign, in which this war arose, Ahaz 
could not have had an adult son capable of bearing arms, but” Ahaz was 
likely “ a royal prince, a cousin or uncle of Ahaz.” — Keil, Commentary , 
in loco. 

5. The “ governor of the city,” appointed by King Josiah to co-operate 
with Shaphan and Joah in repairing the temple. 2 Chron. xxxiv, 8. B. C. 
624. He is probably the same with Maaseiah, the father of Neriah and 
grandfather of Baruch and Seraiah. Jer. xxxii, 12; li, 59. 

6. One of the priests of the descendants of Jeshua who divorced his 
Gentile wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 18. B. C. 456. 

7. Another priest of the “sons” of Harim who put away his Gentile 
wife after the exile. Ezra x, 21. B. C. 456. He is probably the one who 
belonged to the chorus that celebrated the completion of the walls. Neh. 
xii, 42. B. C. 445. 

8. A priest of the “ sons ” of Pashur who divorced his Gentile wife after 
the return from Babylon. Ezra x, 22. B. C. 456. Perhaps the same with 
one of the trumpeters who joined in celebrating the building of the walls 
of Jerusalem. Neh. xii, 41. B. C. 445. 

9. An Israelite, descendant of Pahath-moab, who put away his Gentile 
wife after the exile. Ezra x, 30. B. C. 456. 

10. A Jew whose son Azariah repaired a portion of the walls of Jerusa- 
lem after the return from Babylon. Neh. iii, 23. B. C. 445. 


342 


MAASIAI — MACHIR. 


11. One of those who stood at the right hand of Ezra while he read the 
book of the law to the people. Neh. viii, 4. B. C. about 445. 

12. One of the priests who, with the Levites, expounded the law as it was 
read by Ezra. Neh. viii, 7. B. C. about 445. 

13. One of the “chief of tl^ people” who joined in the covenant with 
Nehemiah. Neh. x. 25. B. C. 445. 

14. The son of Baruch, and one of the descendants of Judah who dwelt 
in Jerusalem after the captivity. Neh. xi, 5. B. C. about 536. In 1 Chron. 

ix, 5, the same person is, probably, given as Asaiah. 

15. The sou of Ithiel, a Benjamite, and one whose descendants resided in 
Jerusalem after the return from Babylon. Neh. xi, 7. B. C. before 536. 

16. A priest whose son Zephaniah was sent by Zedekiah, king of Judah, 
to inquire of the prophet Jeremiah during the invasion by Nebuchadnezzar. 
Jer. xxi, 1 ; xxix, 21, 25 ; xxxvii, 3. B. C. before 589. 

17. The son of Shallum, and a “ keeper of the door” of the temple, wilh 
a chamber in the sacred edifice. Jer. xxxv, 4. B. C. about 607. 

MAA'SIAI, (Heb. Masay ', contracted for Maaseiah ,) the son of 

Adiel, descendant of Immer, and one of the priests resident at Jerusalem 
after the captivity. 1 Chron. ix, 12. B. C. probably after 536. 

MA'ATH, (Gr. Maa0,) a person named as the son of Mattathias and 
father of Nagge in the maternal ancestry of Jesus. Luke iii, 26. As no 
such name appears in the Old Testament pedigrees, it is thought that this 
name has been accidentally interpolated from the Matthat, ver. 24. (M’Clin- 
tock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v .) 

MA'AZ, (Heb. Ma'ats , anger,) the first-named of the three sons of 

Ram, the first-born of Jerahmeel, of the descendants of Judah. 1 Chron. 
ii, 27. B. C. after 1490. 

MAAZI'AH, (Heb. Maazyah ', JTTyD, consolation of Jehovah.) 

1. The head of the fast (twenty-fourth) course of priests as arranged by 
David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 18. B. C. about 1015. 

2. One of the priests who sealed the covenant made by Nehemiali. Neh. 

x, 8. B. C. about 445. 

MACH'BANAI, (Heb. Mcikbannay', binding,) the eleventh of the 

Gadite warriors who joined themselves to David in the wilderness. 1 Chron. 
xii, 13. B. C. about 1058, (1061.) 

MACH'BENAH, (Heb. Makbena', NJ2DD, bound on, perhaps a cloak,) 

if a man, was the son of Sheva, and the one after whom the place of the 
same name was called. 1 Chron. ii, 49. 

MA'CHI, (Heb. Maki', ' 30 , smiting ,) the father of Geuel, who repre- 
sented the tribe of Gad among the explorers of Canaan. Num. xiii, 15. B C 
1490. 

MA'CHIR, (Heb. Makir', TDD, sold.) 

1. The eldest son of Manasseh, (Josh, xvii, 1,) who had children during 
the life-time of Joseph. Gen. 1, 23. B. C. about 1635. He was the founder 


MACHNADEBAI — MAHALATH. 


343 

of the family of the Machirites (Num. xxvi, 29) who settled iu the land 
taken from the Amorites. Num. xxxii, 39, 40 ; Deut. iii, 15 ; Josh, xiii, 31 ; 
1 Chron. ii, 23. Owing to the fact of Machir’s grandson, Zelopheliad, 
having only daughters, a special enactment was made as to their inherit- 
ance. Num. xxvii, 1 ; xxxvi, 1 ; Josh, xvii, 3. His daughter became the 
wife of Hezron aud mother of Segub. 1 Chron. ii, 21. Machir’s mother 
was an Aramitess, and by his wife. Maachah, he had several sons. 1 Chron. 
vii, 14-16. 

2. A descendant of the former, a son of Ammiel, residing at Lo-debar, 
who took care of the lame son of Jonathan until he was provided for by 
David, (2 Sam. ix, 4, 5,) and afterward hospitably entertained the king him- 
self at Mahanaim. Chap, xvii, 27-29. B. C. about 1040-1023. 
MACHNAD'EBAI, (Heb. Maknadbay ', 'yil'D'O, what is like the liberal?) 

an Israelite of the “ sons ” of Bani who put away his Gentile wife after the 
captivity. Ezrax, 40. B. C. 456. 

MA / DAI, (Heb. Maday', HQ, a Mede ,) the third son of Japheth, (Gen. 

x, 2 ; 1 Chron. i, 5,) from whom the Medes are supposed to have descended. 
B. C. about 2448. 

MAG'BISH, (Heb. Magbish', jyHJQ, gathering ,) the name of a man (or 

place) whose descendants, to the number of 156. returned to Palestine with 
Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 30. 

MAG'DIEL, (Heb. MagdieV , ^NHJQ, praise of God,) one of the chiefs 
of Edom, descended from Esau. Gen. xxxvi, 43 ; 1 Chron. i, 54. 

MA'GOG, (Heb. Magog', JiJQ, region of Gog,) the second son of Japheth. 
Gen. x, 2 ; 1 Chron. i, 5. B. C. about 2448. 

MA'GOR-MIS'SABIB, (Heb. Magor' mis-sabib', 2HDQ HJQ, terror 

round about,) the name given by Jeremiah to Pashub, (q. v.,) emblematical 
of his fate. Jer. xx, 3-6. 

MAG'PIASH, (Heb. Magpiash ', fcyjTBJQ, moth-killer ,) one of the chief 

Israelites who joined the covenant made by Nehemiah. Neh. x, 20. B. C. 
445. 

MA'HALAH, (1 Chron. vii, 18.) See Mahlah, No. 2. 
MAHALALEEL, (Ileb. MahalaleV, ^K^HQ, praise of God.) 

1. The son of the patriarch Cainan, the grandson of Seth. Born when 
his father was seventy years of age, he himself became the father of Ja- 
red at the age of sixty-five, and died when he was 895 years old. Gen. v, 
12-17 ; 1 Chron. i, 2 ; Luke iii, 37, in which passage the name is Anglicized 
Maleleel. B. C. 3609-2714. 

2. An Israelite of the tribe of Judah and family of Perez, (Pharez,) and 
ancestor of Athaiah, who resided in Jerusalem after the captivity. Neh. 

xi, 4. B. C. before 536. 

MA'HALATH, (Heb. Machalath', r6nQ, a tyre, guitar .) 

1. The daughter of Ishmael, and third wife of Esau. Gen. xxviii, 9j 
xxxvi, 3 ; in the latter passage called Bashemath, 

?2 


344 


MAHALI — MAHOL. 


2. The granddaughter of David, daughter of Jerimoth, and wife of Re- 
hoboara. 2 Chron. xi, 18. B. C. 974. 

MA'HALI, (Exod. vi, 19.) See Mahli. 

MA'HARAI, (Heb. Maharay *nnp, hasty,) the Netophathite who was 

one of David’s mighty men, (2 Sam. xxiii, 28 ; 1 Chron. xi, 30.) and was 
appointed captain, for the tenth month, of a contingent of 24,000 men. 
1 Chron. xxvii, 13. B. C. 1014. 

MA'HATH, (Heb. Ma'chath , finp, grasping .) 

1. A Kohathite, son of Amasai and father of Elkanah, in the ancestry of 
Heman. 1 Chron. vi, 35. B. C. before 1042. 

2. Another Kohathite, who, with his brother Levites, took part in the 
restoration of the temple under Hezekiah, (2 Chron. xxix, 12,) and' was 
afterward appointed one of the overseers of the sacred offerings. Chap, 
xxxi, 13. B. C. 726. 

MAHA'ZIOTH, (Heb. Machazioth', niK'Tnp, visions ,) one of the fourteen 

sons of Heman the Levite, (1 Chron. xxv, 4.) and appointed by lot leader 
of the twenty-third division of temple musicians. Ver. 30. B. C. 1015. 

MA'HER-SHA'LAL-HASH-BAZ, (Heb. Maher' -shalal'- Ghosh- Baz, 
D m bhv) “inp, speeding for booty he hastens to the spoil,) are words which 

Isaiah was commanded to write upon a tablet, and afterward to give as a 
symbolical name to a son to be born to him. Isa. viii, 1, 3. B. C. about 
742. 

MAH'LAH, (Heb. Machlah ', n^TO, disease.) 

1. The eldest of the five daughters of Zelophehad, of the tribe of Manas- 
seh, who married among their kindred, and so kept their inheritance. Num. 
xxvi, 33; xxvii, 1; xxxvi, 11; Josh, xvii, 3. B. C. 1452. 

2. Given in the Authorized Version Mahalah, as the name of a child, 
whether son or daughter is uncertain, of Hamoleketli, the sister of Gilead, 
a Manassite. 1 Chron. vii, 18. B. C. perhaps about 1490. 

MAH'LI, (Heb. Machli', sickly) 

1. The eldest son of Merari and grandson of Levi. Exod vi, 19, Author- 
ized Version Mahali; Num. iii, 20; 1 Chron. vi, 19 ; xxiii, 21; xxiv, 26; 
Ezra viii, 18. He had three sons, uamed Libni, (1 Chron. vi, 29,) Eleazar, 
and Kish, (chap, xxiii, 21 ; xxiv, 28,) and his descendants were called Mah- 
lites. Num. iii, 33; xxvi, 58. B. C. after 1706. 

2. A son of Mushi, a son of Merari, and therefore nephew of the pre- 
ceding. 1 Chron. xxiii. 23 ; xxiv, 30. He had a son, Shamar. 1 Chron. vi, 
47. B. C. before 1490. 

MAH'LON, (Heb. Machlon ji^np, sickly ,) the elder of the two sons of 

Elimelech the Bethlehemite and Naomi. Having removed to Moab with their 
parents, Mahlon married Ruth the Moabitess, and died without issue. Ruth 
i, 2, 5 ; iv, 9, 10. B. C. about 1322. 

MA'HOL, (Heb. Machol', a dance) a person who seems to have 

been the father of Heman, Chalcol, and Darda, ipen renowned for their 


MALACHI — MALCHIAH. 


345 


wisdom before the time of Solomon. 1 Kings iv, 31. If these are the same 
as those given (1 Chron. ii, 6) as the sons of Zerah, the word must be taken, 
as elsewhere, to denote simply their pursuit as musical composers, an art 
ever connected with dancing. (See Keil, Commentary , ad loco; M’Clintock 
and Strong’s Cyclopaedia , s. v.) 

MAL'ACHI, (Heb. Malaki ', messenger ,) the last both of the minor 

prophets and Old Testament writers. Mai. i, 1. The circumstances of Mal- 
achi’s life are unknown, only as they may be inferred from his prophecies, 
lie seems to have been contemporary with Nehemiah, if we may judge from 
the agreement found between them in the reproof administered for the 
marriage of G-entile wives (compare chap, ii, 11, sq., with Neb. xiii, 23, sq .) 
and negligent payment of tithes. (Compare chap, iii, 8-10, with Nell, xiii, 
10-14.) The contents of the book of Malachi arrange themselves into three 
sections. 1. The first section contains an address to the people generally, 
in which Jehovah asserts and proves his love for them, (chap, i, 1-5,) and 
another to the priests, (chap, i, 6-ii, 9,) rebuking them for the worthlessness 
of their sacrifices and the profanation of the temple thereby, (chap, i, 7-14 ;) 
threatening them with punishment for future neglect, (chap, ii, 1-3 ;) and 
presenting the character of the true priest. Chap, ii, 5-9. 2. In this section 

(chap, ii, 10-16) the prophet reproves the people for their intermarriages 
with idolatrous heathen. 3. The judgment of Jehovah is announced, ush- 
ered in by the advent of the Messiah, to be preceded by the coming of 
Elijah, (John the Baptist.) Chap, ii, 17-iv, 6. 

MAI/CHAM, (Heb. Malkam'. their king,) a Benjarnite, and 

fourth-named of the seven sons of Shaharaim by his wife Hodesh. 1 Chron. 
viii, 9. 

MALCHI'AH, or MALCHI'JAH, (Heb. Malkiyah ', njgfo, and 

Jehovah's king.) 

1. A Gershonite Levite in the ancestry of Asaph. 1 Chron. vi, 40. B. C. 
much before 1015. 

2. A priest, the father of Pashur. 1 Chron. ix, 12, Malchijah; Neh. xi, 
12 ; Jer. xxi, 1 ; xxxviii, 1. B. C. before 589. 

3. The head of the fifth division of the sons of Aaron as arranged by 
David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 9, Malchijah. B. C. 1015. 

4. An Israelite, formerly resident (or descendant) of Parosh, who put 
away his Gentile wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 25. B. C. 456. 

5. Another Israelite of the same place (or parentage) who did the same. 
Ezra x, 25, Malchijah. B. C. 456. 

6. A Jew of the family (or town) of Harim who divorced his Gentile 
wife. Ezra x, 31. B. C. 456. He also assisted in repairing the walls of 
Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 11, Authorized Version, Malchijah. B. C. 445. 

7. The son of Rechab, the ruler of part of Beth-haccerem, who repaired 
the dung-gate of Jerusalem under Nehemiah. Neh. iii, 14. B. C. 445. 

8. The “goldsmith’s son” who assisted in repairing the walls of Jerusa- 
lem. Neh. iii, 31. B. C. 445. 

9. One of those who stood by Ezra when he read the book of the law tQ 
the people. Neh. viii, 4. 3. C. about 445, 


346 


MALCHIEL— MANAEN. 


] 0. One of the priests who subscribed the sacred covenant with Nehe- 
miah. Neh. x, B, Authorized Version, Milchijah. B. C. 445. 

11. One of the priests appointed, probably as singers, to assist in cele- 
brating the completion of the walls of Jerusalem. Neh. xii, 42, Authorized 
Version, Malchijah. B. C. 445. 

MAL/CHIEL, (Heb. Malkiel', God's king , that is, appointed by 

him,) the younger son of Beriah, the son of Asher. Glen, xlvi, It. B. C. 
1706. His descendants were called Malchielites, (Num. xxvi, 45,) and he 
himself was the “father” (founder) of Birzavith. 1 Chron. vii, 31. 
MAI/CHIJAH, in several passages, for Malchiah, (q. v.) 
MAI/CHIRAM, (Heb. Malkiram', D'T'ZJ^IO, king of height ,) the second 

son of King Jeconiah, (Jehoiachin,) born to him during his captivity. 
1 Chron. iii, 18. B. C. after 599. See 2 Kings xxiv, 12. 

MALCHI-SHU'A, (Heb. Malki-Shua ', king of help,) one of the 

four sons of Saul, probably by Ahinoam. 1 Sam. xiv, 49 ; 1 Chron. viii, 33 ; 
ix, 39. He was slain, with his father, at the battle of Gilboa. 1 Sam. xxxi, 2 ; 
1 Chron. x, 2. B. C. 1056. 

MAI/CHUS, (Gr. M ahxog, from Heb. 7]^£>, king, or counselor ,) the 

servant of the high-priest whose ear was cut off by Peter at the arrest of 
Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. John xviii, 10. Caiaphas is doubtless 
the high-priest intended, for John, who was personally acquainted with 
him, (John xviii, 15,) is the only evangelist who gives the name of Malchus. 

MAL'ELEEL, (Luke iii, 37.) See Mahalaleel. 

MAL/LOTHI, (Heb. Mallo'thi , one of the sons of Heman, 

(1 Chron. xxv, 4,) and appointed by David head of the nineteenth division 
of temple musicians. Chap, xxv, 26. B. C. 1015. 

MAI/LUCHj (Heb. Malluk', reigning, or counselor.) 

1. A Levite of the family of Merari, and an ancestor of Ethan the mu- 
sician. 1 Chron. vi, 44. B. C. before 1015. 

2. One of the descendants (or residents) of Bani who divorced his Gentile 
wife after the return to Jerusalem. Ezra x, 29. B. C. 456. 

3. A Jew of the family of Harim who put away his Gentile wife after the 
captivity. Ezra x, 32. B. C. 456. 

4. One of the priests who sealed the covenant made by Nehemiah and 
the people to serve Jehovah. Neh. x, 4. B. C. 445. The associated names 
would seem to indicate that lie is the same with one of those who returned 
with Zerubbabel from Babylon. Neh. xii, 2. B. C. 536. 

5. One of the “chief of the people” who subscribed the covenant made 
by Nehemiah. Neh. x, 27. B. C. 445. 

MAM'RE, (Heb. Mamre', fcO ftp, fat,) the Amorite who, with his broth- 
ers Aner and Eschol, was a confederate of Abraham. Gen. xiv, 13, 24. 
B. C. about 1913. 

MAN'AEN, (Gr. M avar/v,) a Christian prophet or teacher who bad been 
an associate (ovvrpotiog) of Herod the tetrarch in his youth, and was one 


MANAHATH — MANASSEH. S47 

who assisted at Antioch in ordaining Paul and Barnabas. Acts xiii, 1. 

A. D. 45. 

MANAHATH, (Heb. Mana'chath, D 113ft, rest,) the second of the five 

sons of Shobal, the sou of Seir the Horite. Gen. xxxvi, 23 ; 1 Chron. i, 40. 

B. C. about 1850. 

MANAS'SEH. 

1. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Manash'sheh, iltSftft, forgetting ,) the 

elder son of Joseph and his Egyptian wife Asenath. Gen. xli, 51 ; xlvi, 20. 
B. C. about 1712. 

2. Personal History. Manasseh and his brother were both adopted by 
Jacob upon his death-bed, who, however, gave the first place and the birth- 
right blessing to Ephraim. Gen. xlviii, 1, 5, 13, 14, 19. Nothing is known 
of Manasseh’s personal history. His wife’s name is not mentioned, nor is 
it certain that he had one. Machir, the son of an Aramitess concubine, 
(1 Chron. vii, 14,) was probably his only son, and sole founder of his house. 

3. The Tribe of Manasseh. (1) Numbers. On leaving Egypt the 

tribe of Manasseh was the smallest of the twelve, numbering only 32,200, 
but during the wanderings in the wilderness increased rapidly, so that at 
the second census it mustered 52,700 men of war, ranking sixth. (2) Posi- 
tion. The position of the tribe of Manasseh during the march to Canaan 
was with Ephraim and Benjamin, on the west side of the tabernacle. Num. 
ii, 18, 20. (3) Territory. The tribe of Manasseh was divided, probably 

on account of difference of habit and occupation. One section was devoted 
to the pursuits of husbandry; they sought a quiet, peaceful region, with 
rich soil and genial clime, and they found these in the fertile vales and 
plains of central Palestine. Another, and apparently much larger, section 
was pastoral in its tendencies. It was also warlike — trained to arms and 
inured to fatigue. Manasseh east. The descendants of Machir, son of 
Manasseh, invaded northern Gilead and Bashan, ruled by King Og, drove 
out the Amorites, and occupied the whole kingdom. Num. xxxii, 39-42 ; 
Deut. iii, 13-15. Manasseh west. This territory was small, and not accu- 
rately defined in the Bible. It lay on the north side of Ephraim, and in- 
cluded the northern section of the hills of Samaria, a region of great 
beauty and fertility. (4) Subsequent History. The few personages of emi- 
nence whom we can with certainty identify as Manassites, such as Gideon 
and Jephthah, were among the most remarkable characters that Israel pro- 
duced. At the coronation of David, at Hebron, both portions of the tribe 
sent large numbers of warriors; but, like Gad and Reuben, they gradually 
assimilated themselves to the old inhabitants of the country. 1 Chron. v, 
23-25. On them first descended the punishment ordained to be the inevita- 
ble consequence of such misdoing. They, first of all Israel, were carried 
away by Pul and Tiglath-pileser, and settled in the Assyrian territories. 
Ver. 26. After the captivity some of them seem to have settled in Jerusa- 
lem. “And in Jerusalem dwelt of the children of Judah, and of the children 
of Benjamin, and of the children of Ephraim, and Manasseh.” 1 Chron. ix, 3. 

2. Given in Judg. xviii, 30, as the father of Gershom, whose son Jona- 
than acted as priest to the Danites when they set up a graven image. It is 
generally thought that the reading is suspicious, and that it should be ren- 
dered “ Moses,” as in the Yulgate and many copies of the Septuagint. 


848 


MANASSES, 


3. The fourteenth king of Judah. 

1. Family. Manasseh was the son of King Hezekiah by his wife 
Hephzi-bah, and was born B. C. 710, twelve years before his father’s death. 
2 Kings xxi, 1 ; 2 Chron. xxxiii, 1. 

2. Personal History. Of Manasseh very few facts are given, although 

his was the longest reign in the annals of Judah. (1) Sin. Ascending the 
throne at the early age of twelve years, he yielded to the influence of the 
idolatrous or Ahaz party, and became in time a determined and even fanatical 
idolater ; and as he grew up took delight iu introducing into his kingdom 
the superstitions of every heathen country. The high places were restored, 
the groves replanted, the altars of Baal and Astarte rebuilt, and the sun, 
moon, and all the host of heaven were worshiped. “ The gods of Ammon, 
of Moab, and of Edom were zealously worshiped everj r - where. Babylonian 
and Egyptian paganism was rife ; incense and offerings rose on the roofs 
of the houses to the fabled deities of the heights ; wizards practiced their 
enchantments, . . . and the valley of Hinnom was once more disgraced by 
the hideous statue of Moloch, to whom parents offered up their children as 
burnt sacrifices. In the very temple of the Lord stood an image of Ash- 
tarte ; and in the entrance of the court were placed white horses harnessed 
to a splendid chariot sacred to the sun.” — Rothschild, Hist, and Lit. of the 
Israelites, p. 515. This apostasy did not go unrebuked by the prophets, 
whom the king endeavored to silence by the fiercest persecution recorded 
in the annals of Israel. Fuller particulars are preserved by Josephus, who 
says that executions took place every day. {Ant., x, 3, § 1.) According to 
rabbinical tradition Isaiah was sawn asunder by order of Manasseh, and 
after his death the prophetic voice was no more heard till the reign of Jo- 
siah. (2) Retribution. The crimes of Manasseh were not long left un- 
avenged. The Philistines, Moabites, and Ammonites, who had been tribu- 
tary to Hezekiah, seem to have revolted during Manasseli’s reign. Zeph. ii, 
4-9 ; Jer. xlvii-xlix. But the great blow was inflicted by Assyria, from 
whence an army came to Judea, and taking Manasseh prisoner, conveyed 
him to Babylon. 2 Chron. xxxiii, 11. B. C. 677. (3) Reformation. 

Manasseh was brought to repentance, and “ humbled himself greatly before 
the God of his fathers.” God heard his prayer, and restored him to his 
kingdom at Jerusalem. His captivity is supposed to have lasted about a 
year, and after his return Manasseh took measures to secure his kingdom, 
and especially the capital, against hostile attacks. He removed the idols and 
the statues from the house of the Lord, and caused the idolatrous altars which 
he had built upon the temple hill and in Jerusalem to be cast forth from the 
city. He repaired the altar of Jehovah, and called upon the people to serve 
the Lord God of Israel. But the people still sacrificed on the high places, 
“ yet unto the Lord their God only.” The next Scripture mention of Ma- 
nasseh is his death and burial iu the garden of Uzzah. 2 Kings xxi, 18, 26 ; 
2 Chron. xxxiii, 20. B. C. 643. 

4. A descendant (or resident) of Paliath-moab, who put away his Gentile 
wife after the captivity. Ezrax, 30. B. C. 456. 

5. An Israelite of the family of Hashum who did the same. Ezra x, 33 
B. C. 456. 

MANAS'SES, (Gr. x form, M.avaooij?, of Manasseh.) 

1. The king of Judah. Matt, i, 10. 

2. The son of Joseph. Rev. vii, 6, in some editions. 


MANOAH — MARK. 


£49 


MANO'AH, (Heb. Mano'ach, nfaQ, rest,) the father of Samson, a Danite 

of Zorah. When his wife told him of the announcement that a son should 
be born to them, Manoah prayed to the Lord that he would send the messen- 
ger again to teach them how they should treat him. This prayer was 
granted ; but when he knew that it was God’s angel, Manoah feared that 
lie and his wife would die, because they had “ seen God. - ’ But his wife 
quieted his fears, assuring him of God’s pleasure by his acceptance of their 
sacrifice. Judg. xiii, 2-23. B. C. 1161 . We hear of Manoah once again in 
connection with the marriage of Samson, when both parents remonstrated 
with their son on his choice of a wife, but to no purpose. Chap, xiv, 2, 3. 
They accompanied him to Timnath, both at the betrothal and the wedding, 
(vers. 5, 10,) but are not named later. The probability is that Manoah did 
not survive Samson, who was buried “ between Zorah and Eshtaol in the 
burying-place of Manoah.” 

MA'OCH, (Heb. Maok', 'jjiyb, breast-land (?), compressed,) the father of 

Achish, the king of Gath, to whom David fled from Saul. 1 Sam. xxvii, 2. 
B. C. about 1068. 

MA'ON, (Heb. Mabn ', jiyft, dwelling ,) the son of Shamraai, of the family 

of Caleb and tribe of Judah. He was the “father” (founder) of Beth-zur. 
1 Chron. ii, 45. B. C. probably after 1471. 

MA'RA, (Heb. Mara ', Ni£>, bitter ,) the name chosen for herself by 

Naomi, as being more appropriate to her by reason of her afflictions than 
her former name, which signifies “ my delight.” Ruth i, 20. 

MAR'CUS, (Col. iy, 10 ; Philem. 24; 1 Pet. v, 13.) See Mark. 
MAR'ESHAH, (Heb. Mareshah', abbreviated HtSHD.) 

1. A person named as the “ father ” of Hebron, among the descendants 
of Judah. From the position his name occupies he is supposed to be the 
brother of Mesha, Caleb’s first-born. 1 Chron. ii, 42. B. C. about 1471. 

2. A son of, or, more probably, a city founded by, Laadah, of the family 
of Shelah. 1 Chron. iv, 21. 

MARK, (Gr. Mdp/cof, Anglicized Marcus in Col. iv, 10; Philem. 24; 
1 Pet. v, 13,) the evangelist, and probably the same as “ John, whose sur- 
name was Mark,” (Acts xii, 12, 25,) was the son of a certain Mary in Je- 
rusalem, (Acts xii, 12,) and was, therefore,- presumably a native of that city. 
He was of Jewish parentage, his mother being a relative of Barnabas. 
Col. iv, 10. It was to her house that Peter went when released from prison 
by the angel. Acts xii, 12. A. D. 44. That apostle styles him his son, 
(i Pet. v, 13,) probably because he was converted under his ministry. He 
accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their first journey, (Acts xii, 25 ; xiii, 
5.) but left them at Perga and returned to Jerusalem. Chap, xiii, 13. 
Whatever the reason for this act was, it seems to have been sufficient in 
Paul’s estimation to justify him in refusing to allow Mark to accompany 
hun on his second journey. Barnabas was determined to take him, and thus 
Mark was the cause of a “ sharp contention ” between them, and a sepa- 
ration. Acts xv, 36-39. This did not completely estrange him from Paul, 
for we find Mark with the apostle in his first imprisonment at Rome. CoL 


350 


MARSENA — MARY 1 . 


iv, 10 ; Philem. 24. Later he was at Babylon, and unites with Peter in sending 
salutations. 1 Pet. v, 13. He seems to have been with Timothy at Ephesus 
when Paul wrote to-diim during his second imprisonment, and urged him to 
bring Mark to Rome. 2 Tim. iv, 11. A. D. 66. Tradition states that Mark 
was sent on a mission to Egypt by Peter, that he founded the Church of 
Alexandria, of which he became bishop, and suffered as a martyr in the 
eighth year of Hero. According to the legend his remains were obtained by 
the Venetians through a pious fraud, and conveyed to Venice, A. D. 827. 
“ The boay was put into a basket and covered with herbs and flesh of swine. 
The porters, as they carried the basket to the vessel, cried khawzir, pork, 
which the Mussulman detests, and thus avoided suspicion.” In the Gospel 
of Mark “ his record is emphatically ‘ the Gospel of Jesus Christ the Son of 
God,’ (Mark i, 1,) living and working among men, and developing his mis- 
sion more in acts than by words.” — M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v. 

MAR/SENA, (Heb. Marsena fcODIft, perhaps nobleman,) one of the 

“ seven princes (satraps or viziers) of Persia and Media ” in the time of 
Ahasuerus. Esther i, 14. B. C. about 519. 

MARTHA, (Gr. Maptfa,) the sister of Lazarus and Mary, who all re- 
sided in the same house at Bethany. Luke x, 38, 40, 41 ; John xi, 1-39 ; 
xii, 2. Martha appears to have been at the head of the household, (Luke 
x, 38,) and from that circumstance has been thought to have been a widow. 
This is, however, uncertain, and it is generally supposed that the two sis- 
ters (unmarried) managed the household for their brother. The incident 
narrated by Luke (x, 38-42) shows that Jesus was intimate with the family, 
and was at home in their house ; and also brings out the contrary disposi- 
tions of the two sisters. Martha hastens to provide suitable entertainment 
for their friend and his followers, while Mary sits at his feet listening to 
his gracious discourse. The busy,. anxious Martha, annoyed at the inac- 
tivity of Mary, complains impatiently to Jesus, “ Lord, dost thou not care 
that my sister hath left me to serve alone ? bid her therefore that she help 
me.” This brought from the Master the oft-quoted reply, “But one thing 
is needful ; Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away 
from her.” At the death of Lazarus their respective characters are por- 
trayed : Martha active, Mary meditative ; Martha reproachful and objecting, 
Mary silent but immediately obedient to the summons of Jesus ; Martha 
accepting Jesus as the Christ, and sharing in the belief of a resurrection, 
but not believing, as Mary did, in. Jesus as “ the Life.” All that is recorded 
of Martha in addition is that at a supper given to Jesus and his disciples at 
Bethany, at which Lazarus was present, she, as usual, busied herself with 
serving. “ According to tradition, she went with her brother and other 
disciples to Marseilles, gathered round her a society of devout women, and, 
true to her former character, led them a life of-active ministration.” — 
M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia , s. v. 

MA'RY, (Gr. M apla, or M apidp, from Heb. Miriam , D’HID, rebellion.) 

1. Mary, the mother of Jesus. T : * 

1. Family. Mary was the daughter of Jacob, of the tribe of Judah, 
and of the lineage of David, (Luke i, 32 ; Rom. i, 3,) hence in the royal line. 

2. Personal History. (1) The Annunciation. In the summer of the 
year known as B. C. 5 Mary was living at Nazareth, a maiden, but be- 


MARY. 


351 


tro tiled to Joseph. At this time the angel Gabriel came to her with a mes- 
sage from God, and announced to her that she was to be the mother of the 
long-expected Messiah — that by the power of the Holy Ghost the everlast- 
ing Son of the Father should be born of her. Luke i, 26-35. (2) Visit to 

Elizabeth. Informed by the angel that her cousin Elizabeth was within 
three months of being delivered of a child, Mary set off to visit her, either 
at Hebron or Juttah. Immediately upon her entrance into the house she 
was saluted by Elizabetli as the mother of her Lord, and had evidence of 
the truth of the angel’s saying with regard to her cousin. Mary abode 
with her cousin about three months, and returned to her own house. Luke 
i, 36-56. (3) Married to Joseph. In a few months Joseph found that Mary 

was with child, and determined to give her a bill of divorcement, (see Deut. 
xxiv, 1,) instead of yielding her up to the law to suffer the penalty he 
supposed she had incurred, (Deut. xxii, 23, 24;) but being assured of the 
truth by an angel, he took her to wife. Matt, i, 18-25. (4) Mother of Je- 

sus. Soon after Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem to be enrolled for the 
taxing, and while there Christ was born and laid in a manger. Luke ii, 1, 7. 
On the eighth day Jesus was circumcised, and on the fortieth day after the 
nativity — until which time she could not leave the house (Lev. xii, 2-4) — 
the Virgin presented herself with her babe for their purification in the 
temple. The poverty of Joseph and Mary is alluded to in the mention of 
their offering, “ a pair of turtle-doves, or two young pigeons.” There she 
met Simeon and the prophetess Anna; heard their thanksgiving aud proph- 
ecy. Returning to Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph were warned of the pur- 
pose of Herod, and fled to Egypt. Returning the next year, they went to 
Nazareth. Matt, ii, 11-23. At the age of twelve years Jesus accompanied 
his family to Jerusalem, and Mary was temporarily separated from him. 
Luke ii, 42, ff. A. D. 8. (5) Subsequent Mention of Mary. “ Four times 

only,” after our Lord’s ministry commenced, “ is the vail removed, which, 
not surely without a reason, is thrown over her.” These four occasions 
are : the Marriage at Cana , where Jesus solemnly withdraws himself from 
the authority of his earthly mother, (John ii, 1-4 ;) at Capernaum where at 
a public gathering Mary desired to speak to Jesus, and he seems to refuse 
to admit any authority on the part of his relatives, or any privilege on ac- 
count of their relationship, (John ii, 12; Matt, xii, 46-50;) at the Cruci- 
fixion, where Christ with almost his last words commended his mother to 
the care of the disciple whom he loved, and from that hour St. John assures 
U3 that he took her to his abode, (John xix, 25-27 ;) after the Ascension , 
engaged in prayer in the upper room in Jerusalem, with other faithful fol- 
lowers of the Lord. The Scriptures leave Mary engaged in prayer. Actsi, 14. 
Tradition and speculation have conceived her as kept from actual sin by the 
grace of God, the prevailing opinion of the twelfth century. In the thir- 
teenth century it was maintained that, though conceived in sin, she was 
cleansed from it before her birth. Early in the fourteenth century Scotus 
threw out as a possibility the idea of an immaculate conception, which de- 
veloped into the decree of December 8, 1854. (Smith.) 

3. Character. “ Her faith and humility exhibit themselves in her im- 
mediate surrender of herself to the divine will, though ignorant how that 
will be accomplished, (Luke i, 38 ;) her energy and earnestness in her 
journey from Nazareth to Hebron, (Luke i, 39 ;) her happy thankfulness in 
her song of Joy, (Luke i, 48;) her silent, musing thoughtfulness in her 


S52 


MARY. 


pondering over the shepherds’ visit, (Luke ii, 19,) and in her keeping her 
Son’s words in her heart, (Luke ii, 51,) though she could not fully under- 
stand their import. In a word, so far as Mary is portrayed to us in Script- 
ure, she is, as we should have expected, the most tender, the most faithful, 
humble, patient, and loving of women, but a woman still.” — Smith, Dic- 
tionary. 

Difficulty.— Was Mary the mother of any other children than Jesus? is a 
question that has caused almost endless controversy. Of course, the advocates 
of her perpetual virginity assert that she was not. From the accounts in Matt, 
xiii, 55 ; Mark vi, 3, it would seem more than likely that she had a number of chil- 
dren. This presumption is increased by the fact that the persons named as the 
“brethren” of Jesus are mentioned in connection and in company with his sis- 
ters and mothen Indeed, the denial of the natural interpretation of these pas- 
sages owes its origin, in all probability, to the tradition of perpetual virginity, 
the offspring of the false notion of the superior sanctity of celibacy. 

2. Mary Magdalene. 

1. Name. Of this there are four explanations. 1. The most natural is 

that she came from the town of Magdala, (a tower or fortress ,) probably situ- 
ated on the western shore of Lake Tiberias, and the same with that of the 
modern village of El-Mejdel. (Stanley.) 2. The Talmudists make mention 
of a Miriam Megaddela, “ Miriam with the braided locks,” which 

Lightfoot considers as identical with “the woman that was a sinner.” 
Luke vii, 37. 3. Jerome sees in her name and that of her town the old 

Migdol, {watch-tower,) and says that the name denotes the steadfastness of 

her faith. 4. “ Origen, looking to the more common meaning of fn3, {gadaV, 

to be great,) sees in her name a prophecy of her spiritual greatness as hav- 
ing ministered to her Lord, and been the first witness of the resurrection.” 

2. Personal History. Mary Magdalene enters the gospel narrative, 
with certain other women, as “ministering to Jesus of their substance,” 
(Luke viii, 2 ;) all of them being moved by gratitude for their deliverance 
from “evil spirits and infirmities.” Of Mary it is said that “seven demons 
(<5 aLfiovia) went out of her.” Yer. 2 ; Mark xvi, 9. This life of ministration 
brought Mary Magdalene into companionship of the closest nature with Sa- 
lome, the mother of James and John, (Mark xv, 40,) and also with Mary 
the mother of the Lord. John xix, 25. They “ stood afar off, beholding 
these tilings,” (Luke xxiii, 49,) during the closing hours of the agony on the 
cross. The same close association which drew them together there is seen 
afterward. She remains by the cross till all is over, and waits till the body is 
taken down and wrapped in the linen-cloth and placed in the garden-sepul- 
cher of Joseph of Arimathea. Matt, xxvii, 61 ; Mark xv, 47 ; Luke xxiii, 55. 
She, with Salome and Mary the mother of James, “ brought sweet spices 
that they might anoint” the body. Mark xvi, 1. The next morning, accord- 
ingly, in the earliest dawn, (Matt, xxviii, 1 ; Mark xvi, 2) they came to the 
sepulcher. Mary Magdalene had been to the tomb, had found* it empty, and 
had seen the “ vision of angels.” Matt, xxviii, 5 ; Mark xvi, 5. She went 
with her cry of sorrow to Peter and John, (Luke xxiv, 10 ; John xx, 1, 2,) 
and, returning with them, tarried after they went back. Looking into the 
sepulcher, she saw the angels, and replied to their question as to her rea- 
son for weeping, “ They have taken away my Lord, and I know not where 
they have laid him.” Turning back she saw Jesus, but did not at first rec- 
ognize him. Recalled to consciousness by his utterance of her name, she 


Mar^. 


353 


exclaimed “ Rabboni,” and rushed forward to embrace his feet. But she 
must now learn that spiritual dependence upon Christ which can live without 
his visible presence. And that lesson is taught in the words, “ Touch me 
not, for I am not yet ascended to my Father.” Mary then went to the dis- 
ciples, and told them what she had seen and heard, (John xx, 11-18,) and 
passes out of history. 

Difficulty.— Mary Magdalene has long been in popular tradition equivalent to 
“Mary the sinner,” and been identified with the penitent who anointed Jesus. 
There were probably two anointings recorded in the Gospels, the acts of two dif- 
ferent women ; one, in some city unnamed, during our Lord’s Galilean ministry, 
(Luke vii,) the other at Bethany, before the last entry into Jerusalem, (Matt, xxvi, 
Mark xiv, John xii,) by the sister of Lazarus. There is no reliable evidence to 
connect Mary Magdalene with either anointing. (1) When her name appears in 
Luke viii, 2, there is not one word to connect it with the history that immediately 
precedes. (2) The belief that Mary of Bethany and Mary Magdalene are identical 
is yet more startling. The epithet Magdalene, whatever may be its meaning, 
seems chosen for the express purpose of distinguishing her from all other Maries. 
No one evangelist gives the slightest hint of identity. Nor is this lack of evidence 
in the New Testament itself compensated by any such weight of authority as 
would indicate a really trustworthy tradition. (Smith, Dictionary of Bible , s. v .) 

8. Mary, sister of Lazarus. The facts strictly personal to her are but 
few. She and her sister Martha appear in Luke x, 38, sq ., as receiving Christ 
in their house. Mary sat listening eagerly for every word that fell from 
the Divine Teacher, and was commended by Jesus as having “ chosen that 
good part,” the “ one thing needful,” while “ Martha was cumbered about 
much serving.” The next mention of Mary is in connection with the rais- 
ing of Lazarus. She sat still in the house until Martha came to her se- 
cretly and said, “ The Master is come, and calleth for thee,” when she arose 
hastily to go and meet him. At first she gives way to complaint, “ Lord, 
if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died;” but the great joy and 
love revived upon her brother’s return to life, and found expression in the 
anointing at the last feast of Bethany. John xi, xii, 1-9. Matthew and 
Mark do not mention her by name. Of her subsequent history we know 
nothing, the ecclesiastical traditions about her being based on the unfounded 
hypothesis of her identity with Mary Magdalene. (See Smith.) 

4. Mary, the wife of Clopas, (M apia y row K?uotv d, Authorized Version, 
“of Cleophas.”) In St. John’s Gospel we read that “there stood by the 
cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary of Clopas, and 
Mary Magdalene.” John xix, 25. The same group of women is described 
by St. Matthew as consisting of “ Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of 
James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s children, (Matt, xxvii, 56 ;) 
and by St. Mark as “ Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the 
Little and of Joses, and Salome.” Mark xv, 40. From a comparison of 
these passages, it appears that Mary of Clopas and Mary the mother of 
James the Little and of Joses are the same person, and that she was the 
sister of Mary the Virgin. In answer to the alleged improbability of two 
sisters having the same name, it may be said that Miriam, the sister of 
Moses, may have been the holy woman after whom Jewish mothers called 
their daughters. This is on the hypothesis that the two names are identical, 
but on a close examination of the Greek text, we find that it is possible that 
this was not the case. Mary the Virgin is M apidfx ; her sister is M apia. Mary 
of Clopas was probably the elder sister of the Lord’s mother. Mary is brought 
before us for the first time on the day of the crucifixion — in the parallel 


* 

354 MASH— MATTAN I AH. 

passages already quoted from St. Matthew, St. Mark, and St. John. In the 
evening of the same day we find her sitting desolately at the tomb with 
Mary Magdalene, (Matt, xxvii, 61; Mark xv, 47,) and at the dawn of Easter 
morning she was again there with sweet spices, which she had prepared on 
the Friday night, (Matt, xxviii, 1 ; Mark xvi, 1 ; Luke xxiii, 56,) and was 
one of those who had “ a vision of angels, which said that He was alive.” 
Luke xxiv, 23. It is probable that Clopas was dead, and that the two wid- 
owed sisters lived together in one house. (Smith, s. v.) 

5. Mary, mother of Mark, was also sister to Barnabas. Col. iv, 10. It 

would appear from Acts iv, 37 ; xii, 12, that while the brother disposed of 
his property for the benefit of the Church, the sister gave up her house as 
one of the places of meeting. The fact that Peter goes to that house on 
his release from prison indicates that there was some special intimacy 
(Acts xii, 12) between them, and this is confirmed by the language which 
he uses toward Mark as being his “ son.” 1 Pet. v, 13. “ It has been sur- 

mised that filial anxiety about her welfare during the persecutions and the 
famine which harassed the Church at Jerusalem was the chief cause of 
Mark’s withdrawal from the missionary labors of Paul and Barnabas.” 

6. A Christian woman at Rome to whom Paul sent greetings, as to one 
“ who bestowed much labor on us.” Rom. xvi, 6. A. D. 60. 

MASH, (Heb. £>£>, meaning unknown,) one of the sous of Aram, the 

son of Shem. Gen. x, 23. In 1 Chron. i, 17, the name appears as Meshech. 
B. C. about 2218. 

MAS'S A, (Heb. Massa', lifting ,) a son of Ishmael. Gen. xxv, 14; 

1 Chron. i, 30. His descendants were not improbably the Masani , who are 
placed by Ptolemy in the east of Arabia, near the borders of Babylonia. 
B. C. about 1800. 

MATHU'SALA, (Luke iii, 37.) See Methuselah. 

MA'TRED, (Heb. Matred ', TIDES propelling ,) a daughter of Mezahab 

and mother of Mehetabel, who was wife of Hadar (or Hadad) of Pau, king 
of Edom. Gen. xxxvi, 39 ; 1 Chron. i, 50. 

MA'TRI, (Heb. Matri', ntpp, for iTltDD, rain of Jehovah ,) a Benjamite, 

and head of the family to which Saul, the king of Israel, belonged. 1 Sam. 
x, 21. B. C. considerably before 1095. 

MAT'TAN, (Heb. Mattan ', ffiEi, a gift.) 

1. The priest of Baal who was slain before his altars in the idol temple 
at Jerusalem. 2 Kings xi, 18; 2 Chron. xxiii, 17. B. C. 878. He probably 
accompanied Athaliah, the queen mother, from Samaria. 

2. The father of Shephatiah, one of the princes who charged Jeremiah 
with treason and afterward cast him into prison. Jer. xxxviii, 1-6. B. C. 
before 589. 

MATTANI'AH, (Heb. Mattanyah', .Thrift, gift of Jehovah ; Mattan - 
ya'hu, hi 1 Chron. xxv, 4, 16; 2 Chron. xxix, 13.) 

1. The original name of Zedekiah, (q. v.,) king of Judah, which was 
changed when Nebuchadnezzar placed him on the throne instead of his 
nephew Jehoiachin. 2 Kings xxiv, 17. 


MATTATHA — MATTENAI. 


855 


2. A Levite singer of the family of Asaph, resident at Jerusalem after the 
captivity. 1 Cliron. ix, 15. B. C. about 440. He is described as the son 
of Micali, (Micha, Neh. xi, 17,) (Michaiah, Neh. xii, 35,) and after the re- 
turn from Babylon lived in the villages of the Netophathites, (1 Chron. ix, 
16,) or Netophathi, (Neh. xii, 28,) which the singers had built in the neigh- 
borhood of Jerusalem. Neh. xii, 29. As leader of the temple choir after 
its restoration (Neh. xi, 17 ; xii, 8) in the time of Nehemiah, he took part 
in the musical service which accompanied the dedication of tie wall of Je- 
rusalem. Neh. xii, 35. We find him among the Levites of the second rank, 
“ keepers of the thresholds.” Neh. xii, 25. 

3. One of the fourteen sons of Heman, whose office it was to blow the 
horns in the temple service as appointed by David. He had charge of the 
ninth division of musicians. 1 Chron. xxv, 4, 16. B. C. about 1015. He 
is possibly the same with the father of Jeiel, and descendant of Asaph, and 
ancestor of Jahaziel the Levite in the reign of Jehoshaphat. 2 Chron. 
xx, 14. 

4. A descendant of Asaph, the Levite minstrel, who assisted in the puri- 
fication of the temple in the reign of Hezekiah. 2 Chron. xxix, 13. B. C. 
726. 

5. An Israelite “ of the sons of Elam ” who divorced his Gentile wife after 
the exile. Ezra x, 26. B. C. 456. 

6-8. Three Israelites : one a descendant (or resident) of Zattu, (Ezra x, 
27 ;) another, “of the sons ” (that is, inhabitants) of Pahath-moab, (Ezra x, 
30;) and still another, a descendant (or resident) of Bani, (Ezra x, 37,) who 
put awaj 1 - their Gentile wives after the captivity. B. C. 456. 

9. A Levite, father of Zaccur and grandfather of Hanan, the under- 
treasurer who had charge of the offerings for the Levites. in the time of Ne- 
hemiah. Neh. xiii, 13. B. C. considerably before 434. 

MAT'TATHA, (Luke iii, 31.) See Mattathah, 1. 

MAT'TATHAH, (Heb. Mattathah ', nflPID, probably contraction of Mat- 
tathiah.) 

1. (Authorized Version, “ Mattatha.”) The son of Nathan and grandson 
of David, among the ancestry of our Lord. Luke iii, 31. B. C. after 1015. 

2. An Israelite of the “sons” (inhabitants) of Hashum who put away 
his foreign wife in the time of Ezra. Ezra x, 33. B. C. 456 

MAT'TATHIAS, (Gr. Murrafl/af.) 

1. The son of Amos and father of Joseph, in the genealogy of our Lord. 
Luke iii, 25. 

2. The son of Semei in the same catalogue. Luke iii, 26. “As no such 
name appears in the parallel passages of the Old Testament, and would here 
unduly protract the interval limited by other intimations of the genera- 
tions, it is probably interpolated from No. 1.” — Strong, Harmony and Expo- 
sition of the Gospels, p. 16. 

MAT'TENAI, (Heb. Mattenay ', probably contraction of Mat- 

taniah.) 

1, 2. Israelites, one a son (or citizen) of Hashum, (Ezra x, 33,) and the 
other of Bani, (Ezra x, 37,) who put away their heathen wives after the cap- 
tivity. B. C. 456. 

3. A priest of the family of Joiarib, who lived in the time of Joiakim, the 
sou of Jeshua. Neh, xii, 19, B. C, after 536, 


856 


MATTHAN — MATTHIAS. 


MAT'THAN, ^Gr. Martfai;,) the son of Eleazar and father of Jacob, 
which last was father of Joseph, “the husband of Mary.” Matt, i, 15. 
B. C. considerably before 40. 

MAT'THAT, (Gr. Martfdr.) 

1. The son of Levi and father of Heli, who was the father of the Virgin 
Mary. Luke iii, 24. B. C. before 22. 

2. The son of another Levi, and father of Jorim. Luke iii, 29. 

MAT'THEW. 1. Name and Family. (Gr. Mardaioc, Matthaeus , con- 
traction of Mattathias , a gift of Jehovah ,) the son of a certain Alpheus, and 
surnamed Levi. Mark ii, 14; Luke v, 27. It is not known whether his 
father was the same with the Alpheus named as the father of James the 
Less, but he was probably another. 

2. Personal History. (1) Residence and Profession. Matthew’s resi- 
dence was at Capernaum, and he was a publican. There was at that time 
a large population surrounding the Lake of Gennesaret, its fisheries supplied 
a source of livelihood, and its surface was alive with a busy navigation and 
traffic. A custom-house was established at Capernaum by the Romans, and 
Matthew was tax-collector. The publicans proper wfere usually Romans of 
rank and wealth, who farmed or let out the business of collecting to resi- 
dent deputies, who were called portitors. It was to this class that Matthew 
belonged. (2) His Call. While Matthew was thus occupied, “ sitting at 
the receipt of custom,” Jesus said to him, “ Follow me.” He probably 
already knew Jesus, for he immediately “arose and followed him.” Matt, 
ix, 9 ; Mark ii, 14 ; Luke v, 27, 28. Shortly after Matthew made “ a great 
feast in his own house ” in honor of Jesus, (Luke v, 29 ; Matt, ix, 10 ; Mark 
ii, 15,) and perhaps as a farewell to his old associates, for “ many publi- 
cans and sinners came and sat down.” Matt, ix, 10. After this we find no 
mention of him save in the catalogues of the apostles, (Luke vi, 15,) and 
his presence in the “ upper room ” in Jerusalem after our Lord’s ascension. 
Acts i, 13. The gospel which bears his name was written by the apostle, 
according to the testimony of all antiquity. Tradition relates that Matthew 
preached in Judea after the ascension for a number of years, (twelve or 
fifteen,) and then went to foreign nations. 

MATTHFAS, (Gr. Mard/af, the same as Marrad/af, gift of Jehovah.) 
Of his family no account is given. 

Personal History. Of the life of Matthias we have no account ex- 
cepting the incident narrated in Acts i, 15-26, namely, His being chosen an 
Apostle. The 120 were assembled at Jerusalem, waiting for the baptism 
of the Holy Ghost ; and, at the suggestion and under the supervision of 
Peter, proceeded to fill the place among the twelve left vacant by the defec- 
tion and death of Judas Iscariot. Peter “ laid down ” the essential quali- 
fications for the apostolic office — the having been one of the companions of 
Christ from his baptism by John till his ascension — and declared the object 
of the election “to be a witness with us of his resurrection.” Acts i, 21, 
22. Two such men were chosen, but the ultimate decision was referred to 
God himself by the sacred trial of the lot, accompanied by prayer. The 
two were Joseph, called Barsabas, and surnamed the Just, and Matthias, 
upon the latter of whom the lot fell. He was straightway numbered among 
the apostles. Nothing reliable is recorded of his after-life. He is noT 
ipenfioned again in the New Testament, Eusebius and Epiplianius believed 


MATTITHIAH — MEHETABEL. 


357 


him to be one of the seventy disciples. (Smith’s New Testament History.) 
One tradition says that he preached the Gospel in Judea, and was then 
stoned to death by the Jews. Others make him a martyr — by crucifixion — 
in Ethiopia or Colchis. An apocryphal gospel was published under his 
name, and Clement of Alexandria quotes from the Traditions of Matthias. 
(Kitto. Smith.) The Lot. According to Grotius, the lot was taken by 
means of two urns. In one they placed two rolls of paper, with the names 
of Joseph and Matthias written within them ; and in the other two rolls, one 
with the word apostle and the other blank ; and one roll was drawn from 
each urn simultaneously. Clarke ( Commentary ) thinks that the selection 
was by ballot, the Lord directing the mind of the majority to vote for Mat- 
thias. In the case of selection by lot there was no chance, for “ the lot is 
cast into the lap, [prop., urn;'] but the whole disposing thereof is of the 
Lord.” Prov. xvi, 33. 

MATTITHI'AH, (Heb. Mattithyah', iTflfip, gift of Jehovah ; prolonged 
from Mattithya'hu, in 1 Chron. xv, 18, 21 ; xxv, 3, 21.) 

1. A Levite, the eldest son of Shallum the Korahite, who had charge of 
the baked offerings, “ things that were made in the pans,” (1 Chron. ix, 31,) 
probably after the exile. B. C. about 445. 

2. One of the sons of Jeduthun, a Levite appointed by David chief of the 
fourteenth division of the temple musicians. 1 Chron. xxv, 3, 21. He is 
probably the same as the one appointed to assist in the musical service at 
the removal of the ark to Jerusalem, and to act as door-keeper. 1 Chron. xv, 
18, 21 ; xvi, 5. B. C. about 1042. 

3. An Israelite, one of the “ sons ” (residents) of Nebo, who put away 
his Gentile wife after the exile. Ezra x, 43. B. C. 456. 

4. One of those who stood at the right hand of Ezra when he read the 
law to the people. Neh. viii, 4. B. C. about 445. 

MEBUNNA'I, (Heb. Mebunnay ', '3 3ft, construction ?) In this form ap- 
pears. in one passage only, (2 Sam. xxiii, 27,) the name of one of David’s 
guard, who is elsewhere called Sibbechai , (2 Sam. xxi, 18 ; 1 Chron. xx, 4,) 
or Sibbecai (1 Chron. xi, 29 ; xxvii, 11) in the Authorized Version. The 
reading “ Sibbechai ” is evidently the true one. (Smith, s. v .) 

ME'DAD, (Heb. Meydad', TPft, low,) one of the seventy elders chosen to 

assist Moses in the government of the people. He and Eldad remained be- 
hind in the camp, and were not among the rest of the seventy at the taber- 
nacle. When the Spirit came upon these it descended also upon Mcdad and 
Eldad, so that they prophesied. A lad reported the matter to Moses, who 
did not forbid them, as requested by Joshua, but replied, “Would God that 
all the Lord’s people were prophets,” etc. Hum. xi, 26, sq. B. C. 1490. 

ME 'DAN, (Heb. Medan', pft, contention,) the third son of Abraham and 
Keturah. Gen. xxv, 2 ; 1 Chron. i, 32. B. C. about 1853. 

MEHET'ABEEL, (Neh. vi, 10.) See Mehetabel, No. 2. 

MEHET'ABEL, (Heb. MeheytabeV , ^tptp'Hft, whom God does good to.) 

1. The daughter of Matred and wife of Hadad, (or Hadar.) the last- 
named king of Edom. Gen. xxxvi, 39. B. C. probably about 1496. 


858 


MEHIDA — MELCHIZEDEK. 


2. The father of Delaiah and grandfather of Shemaiah, which latter had 
been hired by Tobiah and Sanballat to intimidate Nehemiah. Nth. vi, 10. 
B. C. before 445. 

MEHFDA, (Heb. Mechida', XT' HQ, perhaps joining,) a person whose de- 
scendants (or place whose inhabitants) were among the Nethinim who re- 
turned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 52 ; Neh. vii, 54. B. C. 
before 536. 

ME'HIR, (Heb. Mechir TIVD, price,) the son of Chelub and father 

(founder?) of Eshton, of the family of Judah.* 1 Chron. iv, 11. 

MEHUMAEL, (Heb. Mechuyael', smitten of God,) the son of 

Irad, (grandson of Cain,) and father of Methusael Gen. iv, 18. B. C. after 
3875. 

MEHU'MAN, (Heb. Mehuman ', pJinp, perhaps faithful ,) one of the 

seven chamberlains (eunuchs) whom Ahasuerus commanded to bring Queen 
Yashti into the royal presence. Esther i, 10. B. C. about 519. 

MEHU'NIM, (Heb. Meiinim', habitations ,) apparently a person 

whose “ children ” are enumerated among the Nethinim who returned from 
Babylon, (Ezra ii, 50; Neh. vii, 52,) but more probably the inhabitants of 
some town in Palestine where they settled after the exile. 

MEL ATI' AH, (Heb. Melatyah', !YtpSE>, whom Jehovah delivers ) a Gib- 

eonite who assisted in repairing the wall of Jerusalem after the return from 
Babylon. Neh. iii, 7. B. C. 445. 

MEL'CHI, (Gr. MeA*f, for Heb. my king.) 

1. The son of Janna and father of Levi, fourth in ascent from the Virgin 
Mary. Luke iii, 24. B. C. much before 22. 

2. The son of Addi in the same genealogy. Luke iii, 28. 

MELCHFAH, (Heb. Malkiyah', Tsipft, Jehovah's king.) a priest, the 

father of Pasliur, which latter King Zedekiali desired to inquire of the 
Lord when Nebuchadnezzar made war against him, (Jer. xxi, 1 ;) elsewhere 
called Malchiah , (Jer. xxxviii, 1 ) Malchij ah. 1 Chron. ix, 12. 
MELCHIS'EDEC, (Heb. v-vii.) See Melchizedek. 
MELCHI-SHU'A, (1 Sam. xiv, 49 ; xxxi, 2.) See Malchisua. 
MELCHIZ'EDEK, (Heb. Mallei' -Tse'dek , pT psfe king of righteous- 
ness: Anglicized in New Testament Melchised.ec) the king of Salem and 
“ priest of the most high God,” who went out to congratulate Abraham on 
his victory over Chedorlaomer and his allies. He met him in the “ valley 
of Shaveh, which is the king’s dale.” Melchizedek brought bread and wine 
for the exhausted warriors, and bestowed his blessing upon Abraham. In 
return the patriarch gave to the royal priest a tenth of all the booty taken 
from the enemy. Gen. xiv, 18-20. B. C. about 1913. Giving the tenth was 
a practical acknowledgment of the divine priesthood of Melchizedek, for 
the tenth was, according to the general custom, the offering presented to 
$eity. Melchizedek is mentioned ip Psa, cx, 4, where it is foretold that the 


MELEA— MENAHEM. 


359 


Messiah should be “ a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek ; ” and 
in Heb. v-vii, where these two passages of the Old Testament are quoted, 
aud the typical relation of Melchizedek to our Lord is stated at great length. 
“ The faith of early ages ventured to invest' his person with superstitious 
awe. Jewish tradition pronounces Melchizedek to be a survivor of the del- 
uge, the patriarch Sliem. Equally old, perhaps, but less widely diffused, is 
the supposition, not unknown to Augustine, and ascribed by Jerome to Ori- 
gen and Didymus, that Melchizedek was an angel. The fathers of the fourth 
and fifth centuries record with reprobation the tenet of the Melchizedekians 
that he was a Power, Virtue, or Influence of God, and the not less daring 
conjecture of Hieracas and his followers that Melchizedek was the Holy 
Ghost. Epiphanius mentions some members of the Church as holding the 
erroneous opinion that Melchizedek was the Son of God appearing in hu- 
man form. Similar to this was a Jewish opinion that he was the Messiah.” 

Difficulties.— (1) “The ‘order of Melchizedek,’ in Psa. cx, 4, is explained 
by Geseniusand Rosenmiiller to mean “ manner ”=likeness in official dignity = 
a king and priest. The relation between Melchizedek and Christ as type and an- 
titype is made in the Epistle to the Hebrews to consist in the following particulars. 
Each was a priest, (1) not of the Levitical tribe ; (2) superior to Abraham ; 
(3) whose beginning and end are unknown ; (4) who is not only a priest, but also 
a king of righteousness and peace. (2) Salem. Another fruitful source of dis- 
cussion has been found in the site of Salem and Shaveh, which certainly lay in 
Abram’s road from Hobah to the plain of Mamre, and which are assumed to be 
near to each other. The various theories may be briefly enumerated as follows : 
(1) Salem is supposed to have occupied, in Abraham’s time, the ground on which 
afterward Jebus and then Jerusalem stood ; and Shaveh to be the valley east of 
Jerusalem through which the Kidron flows. (2) Jerome denies that Salem is Je- 
rusalem, and asserts that it is identical with a town near Scythopolis or Beth- 
shan. (3) Professor Stanley is of opinion that there is every probability that 
Mount Gerizim is the place where Melchizedek, the priest of the Most High, met 
Abram. (4) Ewald denies positively that it is Jerusalem, and says that it must 
be north of Jerusalem on the other side of Jordan ; an opinion which Rodiger 
condemns. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

MEI/EA, (Gr. MeAeac,) the son of Menan and father ofEliakim, among 
the maternal ancestry of Jesus. Luke iii, 31. 

ME'LECH, (Heb. Me'lek , king,) the second son of Micali, the son 

of Merib-baal, or Mephibosheth. 1 Chron. viii, 35 ; ix, 41. B. C. after 
1037. 

MEI/ICU, (Nell, xii, 14.) See Malluch. 

MEI/ZAR, (Heb. Meltsar', probably master of wine, that is, chief 

butler,) the official title, and not the name, of an officer in the Babylonian 
court. Dan. i, 11, 16. The marginal reading, “steward,” is correct. The 
duty of the melzar was to superintend the nurture and education of the 
young. 

MEMU'CAN, (Heb. Memukan', p^p,) one of the seven princes, or 

royal counselors, at the court of Ahasuerus at whose suggestion Queen 
Vasliti was divorced. Esther i, 14, 16, 21. B. C. about 519. 

MEN'AHEM, (Heb. Menachem ', DIUD, comforting ,) the seventeenth 

separate king of Israel. He was the son of Gadi, and probably one of the 
generals of King Zachariah. When he heard of the conspiracy of Shallum, 
his murder of the king, and his usurpation of the throne, he went up from 
23 


360 


MENAN— MEPHIBOSHETH. 


Tirzah, where he then was, and slew the usurper in Samaria. Menahem 
in turn usurped the throne, and reduced Tiphsah because it refused to recog- 
nize him as king. He continued the calf-worship of Jeroboam, and contrib- 
uted to the ungodliness, demoralization, and feebleness of Israel, a melan- 
choly picture of which lias been left by the contemporary prophets, Hosea 
and Amos. During his reign the hostile force of Assyrians first appeared 
on the north-east frontier of Israel. King Pul received from Menahem a 
gift of 1,000 talents of silver, exacted from Israel by an assessment of fifty 
shekels a head, and became his ally. Menahem’s reign lasted ten years 
— B. C. about 771-761 — and left the throne to his son Pekahiah. 2 Kings 
xv, 14-22. 

MEN'AN, (Gr. M atvav, meaning unknown,) the son of Mattatha and 
father of Melea, in the ancestry of Jesus. Luke iii, 31. 

MEON'OTHAI, (Heb. Meonothay , Tlj'ijjp, my dwellings .) apparently 

brother of Halhath, the son of Othniel, (margin, “ Hathath and Meonothai, 
who begat,” etc.,) and father of Ophrah. 1 Chron. iv, 14. B. C. after 1491. 

MEPHIB / OSHETH, (Heb. Mephibo'slieth, nCO’Ep, exterminator of 
idols.) v * : 

1. The son of Saul by his concubiue Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah. He 
and his brother Armoni were among the seven victims who were surren- 
dered by David to the Gibeonites, and by them crucified in sacrifice to Jeho- 
vah, to avert a famine from which the country was suffering. 2 Sam. xxi, 8, 
sq. B. C. 1053-1019. 

2. The son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul. (1) Early Life. When 

his father and grandfather were slain at Gilboa, Mephibosheth was an infant 
of five years of age, living under the care of his nurse, probably at Gibeah. 
When the tidings of the disaster came to the royal household the nurse fled, 
carrying the child upou her shoulder. In her haste she let him fall, and 
Mephibosheth was crippled for life in both feet. 2 Sam. iv, 4. B. C. about 
1051. (2) Befriended by David. After the accident Mephibosheth seems 

to have found a refuge in the house of Machir, a Gadite sheik at Lo-debar, 
near Mahanaim, by whom he was brought up. (Josephus, Ant., vii, 5, 5.) 
There he married and was living when David, having conquered his ene- 
mies, had leisure to make endeavors to fulfill his oath to Jonathan by the 
stone Ezel, that he would not “ cut off his kindness from his house forever.” 

1 Sam. xx, 15. From Ziba he learned of the existence and whereabouts of 
Mephibosheth, and brought him and his son Micha (compare 1 Chron. ix, 
40) to Jerusalem. The interview was characterized by fear and reverence 
on the part of Jonathan’s son, and kindness and liberality on that of David. 
All the property of his grandfather was conveyed to Mephibosheth, and 
Ziba was commanded to cultivate the land in his interest. Mephisbosheth 
took up his residence in Jerusalem, and was a daily guest at the royal table. 

2 Sam. ix. B. C. about 1040. (3) During Absalom’s Revolt. The next 

mention of Mephibosheth respects his behavior upon the revolt of Absalom. 
Of this there are two accounts — his own (2 Sam. xix, 24-30) and that of Ziba 
(chap, xvi, 1-4) — and they naturally differ. Ziba, because of his loyalty and 
kindness, was rewarded with the possessions of his master. Mephibosheth 
met David a few days after and told his story, namely, that he had desired 
to fly with his benefactor, but was deceived by Ziba, so that he was obliged 


MERAB— MERED. 


361 


to remain behind. He had, however, done all that he could to evidence his 
sympathy with David, having gone into the deepest mourning for his af- 
flicted friend. From the day the king left he had allowed his beard to grow 
ragged, his feet to be unwashed, and his linen unchanged. David doubtless 
believed his story, and revoked his judgment given to Ziba so much as to 
have the land divided between the two. Mephibosheth’s answer was, 
“ Yea, let him take all, forasmuch as my lord the king is come again in 
peace unto his own house.” B. C. 1023. We hear no more of Mephibosheth, 
except that the king did not suffer him to be included in the vengeance 
which the Gibeonites were allowed to execute upon the house of Saul. 
2 Sam. xxi, 7. B. C. about 1019. 

ME'RAB, Merab', yyo, increase ,) the eldest daughter of King Saul, 

(1 Sam. xiv, 49,) whom, in accordance with the promise made before the 
death of Goliath, (chap, xvii, 25,) Saul had betrothed to David. Chap, xviii, 
17. B. C. about 1063. David’s hesitation looks as if he did not much 
value the honor — at any rate, before the marriage Merab’s younger sister, 
Michal, had displayed her attachment for David, and Merab was then mar- 
ried to Adriel the Meholathite, to whom she bore five sons, (2 Sam. xxi, 8,) 
who were given up to the Gibeonites by David. 

Difficulty.— In 2 Sam. xxi, 8, these children of Merab are said to he “ the five 
sons of Michal, the daughter of Saul, whom she brought up for Adriel,” etc. “ The 
Authorized Version of this last passage is an accommodation. The Hebrew text 
has * the five sons of Michal, daughter of Saul, which she bare to Adriel.’ The 
most probable solution of the difficulty is that ‘ Michal ’ is the mistake of a tran- 
scriber for ‘Merab.’ But the error is one of very ancient date.”— Smith, Dic- 
tionary, s. v. 

MERAFAH, (Heb. Merayah', jT"ip, rebellion ,) a chief priest contempo- 
rary with the high-priest Joiakim. Neh. xii, 12. B. C. after 536. 

MERAI'OTH, (Heb. Merayoth', ni’np, rebellious .) 

1. The son of Zerahiah, a high-priest of the line of Eleazar. 1 Chron. vi, 
6, 7, 52; Ezra vii, 3. B. C. considerably before 1061. Lightfoot ( Temple 
Service , iv, §1) thinks that he was the immediate predecessor of Eli in the 
office of high-priest, and that at his death the high-priesthood changed from 
the line of Eleazar to that of Ithamar. The same person is doubtless 
meant in 1 Chron. ix, 11 ; Neh. xi, 11, but placed by mistake between Za- 
dok and Alii tub, instead of after the latter. 

2. A chief priest whose house was represented in the time of Joiakim 
by Helkai. Neh. xii, 15. 

MERA'RI, (Heb. Merari', "Tip, bitter , sad,) the third-named of the sons 

of Levi, probably born in Canaan. Gen. xlvi, 11 ; Exod. vi, 16 ; Num. iii, 17 ; 
1 Chron. vi, 1, sq. B. C. before 1706. All that is known of his personal his- 
tory is the fact of his birth before the migration of Jacob to Egypt, and of 
his being one of the seventy persons who accompanied him thither. Gen. 
xlvi, 8, sq. He became the head of the third division of the Levites, that 
is, the Merarites. 

ME'RED, (Heb. the same, *Tip, rebellion,) the second son of Ezra, of the 
tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 17, 18. There is a great deal of confusion in 


362 


MEREMOTH — MERODACH-BALADAN. 


the account of his family, which Berthean has sought to remove by putting 
the last clause of ver. 18 immediately after Jalon in ver. 17. 

MER'EMOTH, (Heb. Meremoth niEHtt, heights, that is, exaltations.) 

1. A priest, son of Uriah, (Urijah,) who was appointed to weigh and reg- 
ister the gold and silver vessels brought to Jerusalem. Ezra viii, 33. B. C. 
about 457. He repaired two sections of the wall of Jerusalem under Nehe- 
miah. Neh. iii, 4, 21. B. C. 445. 

2. A layman of the “sons” (inhabitants?) of Bani who divorced his 
Gentile wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 36. B. C. 456. 

3. A priest, or more likely a family of priests, who sealed the covenant 
with Nehemiah. Neh. x, 5. The latter supposition is more probable, as in 
Neh. xii, 3, the name occurs among those who returned with Zerubbabel a 
century before. 

ME'RES, (Heb. id., worthy ,) one of the seven princes of Persia 

and Media in the days of Ahasuerus. Esther i, 14. B. C. about 519. 

MERIB'-BAAL, (Heb. Merib'-Ba'al, yyo, contender with Baal,) the 

son of Jonathan, (1 Chron. viii, 34 ; ix, 40,) who in 2 Samuel is called Jfe- 
phibosheth. 

MER'ODACH-BAL'ADAN, (Heb. Merodak' -Baladan', 

Mars his lord,) the son of Baladan, was king of Persia and contemporary 
with Hezekiah, to whom he sent congratulatory letters and a present upon 
hearing of his recovery. Isa. xxxix, 1. B. C. about 712. In 2 Kings 
xx, 12, the name is written Berodach- Baladan. “ The name of Merodach-Bal- 
adan has been clearly recognized in the Assyriau iuscriptions. The Canon 
of Ptolemy gives Merodach-Baladan ( Mardocempal ) a reign of twelve years 
— from B. C. 721 to B. C. 709. Polyhistor assigns him a six months’ reign, 
immediately before Elibus, or Belibus, who (according to the Canon) ascend- 
ed the throne B. C. 702. It has commonly been seen that these must be 
two different reigns, and that Merodach-Baladan must therefore have been 
deposed in B. C. 709, and have recovered his throne in B. C. 702, when he 
had a second period of dominion lasting half a year. The inscriptions con- 
tain express mention of both reigns. Sargon states that in the twelfth year 
of his own reign lie drove Merodach-Baladan out of Babylon, after he had 
ruled over it for twelve years; and Sennacherib tells us that in his first year 
he defeated and expelled the same monarch, setting up in his place * a man 
named Belib.’ Putting all our notices together, it becomes apparent that 
Merodach-Baladan was the head of the popular party which resisted the 
Assyrian monarchs, and strove to maintain the independence of the country. 
In the Second Book of Kings he is styled 4 the son of Baladan ; ’ but the 
inscriptions call him ‘the son of Yagin whence it is to be presumed that 
Baladan was a more remote ancestor. The real object of the mission to 
Hezekiah was most likely to effect a league between Babylon, Judea, and 
Egypt, (Isa. xx, 5, 6,) in order to check the growing power of the Assyr- 
ians. The league, however, does not seem to have taken effect. Sargon 
sent expeditions both into Syria and Babylonia — seized the stronghold of 
Ashdod in the one, and completely defeated Merodach-Baladan in the other. 
That monarch sought safety in flight, and lived for eight years in exile. At 


Mesha— meshezabeel. 


868 


last (B. C. 703 or 702) the exiled monarch seems to have returned and re* 
covered his throne. Merodach-Baladan had obtained a body of troops from 
his ally, the king of Susiaua ; but Sennacherib defeated the combined army 
in a pitched battle. Merodach-Baladan fled to ‘ the islands at the mouth of 
the Euphrates.’ He lost his recovered crown after wearing it for about six 
months, and spent the remainder of his days in exile and obscurity.” — Smith, 
Dictionary , s. v. 

ME'SHA, (Heb. Mesha ' , deliverance , 1 and 2 ; retreat , 

No. 3.) 

1. A king of Moab, and tributary to Ahab. At the death of Ahab Me- 
sha endeavored to shake off the yoke of Israel and free himself from the 
burdensome tribute of 100,000 lambs and 100,000 rams, with their wool. 
When Jehoram became king he secured the assistance of Jehoshaphat in 
reducing the Moabites to their former condition of tributaries. The two 
armies marched by a circuitous route around the Dead Sea, and were joined 
by the forces of the king of Edom. The Moabites were defeated and driven 
to their stronghold, from which the king and 700 fighting men made an at- 
tempt to break through the besieging army. Beaten back, he withdrew to 
the wall of the city, upon which he offered up his first-born son and heir 
to the kingdom as a burnt-offering to Chemosh, the fire-god of Moab. His 
bloody sacrifice had the effect of induciug the besiegers to retire to their 
own land. 2 Kings iii, 4, sq. B. G. 895. The exploits of “ Mesha, son (that 
is, votary ) of Chemosh, king of Moab,” are recorded in the inscription on 
the “ Moabite stone” discovered by M. Ganneau at Dibon in Moab. 

2. The eldest son of Caleb, (brother of Jerahmeel, and son of Hezron,) 
and “ father” (founder) of Ziph. 1 Chron. ii, 42. B. C. about 1471. 

3. A son of the Benjamite Shaharaim by his wife Hodesh. 1 Chron. viii, 9. 
B. C. perhaps 1400. 

MEI / SHACH, (Chald. Meyshak', meaning uncertain,) the name 

given to Mishael, one of the companions of Daniel, by the chief eunuch of 
the Babylonian court. He, with Daniel and two other captive youths, was 
selected to be trained as personal attendants and advisers of the king. 
Dan. i, 7. B. C. about 606. See Shadrach. 

ME'SHECH, (Heb. Me' shell , 7|^D, a drawing out.) 

1. The sixth-named son of Japheth, (Gen. x, 2 ; 1 Chron. i, 5,) B. C. about 
2350, and progenitor of a people frequently noticed in connection with Tubal, 
Magog, and other northern countries. Ezek. xxvii, 13 ; xxxii, 26 ; xxxviii, 2, 3. 

2. Another name (1 Chron. i, 17) for Mash, (q. v.) 

MESHELEMTAH, (Heb. Meshelemyah', ITE^Dj friendship of Jeho- 
vah ,) a Levite of the family of Kore, who, with his seven sons and breth- 
ren, were gate-keepers of the temple in the time of David. 1 Chron. ix, 21; 
xx vi, 1, 2, 9. B. C. about 1015. They were all assigned to the east gate 
except Zechariah, (ver. 14,) who had the north gate. 

MEVHEZABE'EL, (Heb. MesheyzabeV , delivered by God,) 

the grandfather of Meshullam, who assisted in repairing the wall of Jeru- 
salem. (Neli. iii, 4,) one of “ the chief of the people ” who sealed the covenant 
with Nehemiah, (chap, x, 21,) and father of Pethahiah the Zerahite of Ju-. 


864 


MESHILLEMITH — MESHULLAM. 


dah. Chap, xi, 24. B. C. before 445. Probably the same person is referred 
to in all the passages. 

MESHILLE'MITH, (1 Oliron. ix, 12.) See Meshillemoth. 

MESHII/LEMOTH, (Heb. Meshillemoth', niftWp, requitals.) 

1. A priest, the son of Immer and father of Meshullarn, (1 Chron. ix, 12, 
where he is called Meshillemith.) He is said (Neh. xi, 13) to be the son of 
Immer and father of Ahasai. B. C. before 440. 

2. The father of Berechiah, one of the chiefs of Ephraim who protested 
against the attempt of the Israelites to make slaves of their captive brethren 
of Judah. 2 Ohron. xxviii, 12. B. C. about 741. 

MESHO'BAB, (Heb. Meshobab returned ,) a chief of the tribe 

of Simeon, whose family so increased that he migrated to Gedor in the time 
of Hezekiah. 1 Chron. iv, 34. B. C. about 715. 

MESHUI/LAM, (Heb. Meshullarn friend of God.) 

1. The grandfather of Shaphan, the scribe who was sent by King Josiah 
to take charge of the moneys collected for the repairs of the temple. 
2 Kings xxii, 3. B. C. before 624. 

2. The eldest-named of the children of Zerubbabel. 1 Chron. iii, 19. B. C. 
about 536. 

3. A Gadite, and one of the chiefs of the tribe residing in Bashan in the 
time of Jotliam. 1 Chron. v, 13. B. C. between 826-742. 

4. A Benjamite, and one of the descendants of Elpaal resident at Jerusa- 
lem after the captivity. 1 Chron. viii, 17. 

5. A Benjamite, son of Hodaviah, (1 Chron. ix, 7,) or Joed, (Neh. xi, 7,) 
and father of Sallu, who resided at Jerusalem after the captivity. B. C. 
before 445. 

6. Another Benjamite (son of Sliephathiah) who dwelt at Jerusalem after 
the exile. 1 Chron. ix, 8. B. C. about 445. 

7. A priest (son of Zadok) whose descendants dwelt in Jerusalem. 1 Chron. 
ix, 11 ; Neh. xi, 11. B. C. before 445. He is probably the same as Shal- 
lum, (q. v.) 

8. The son of Meshillemith, and ancestor of Maasiai, (1 Chron. ix, 12,) or 
Amashai. Neh. xi, 13. B. C. long before 445. 

9. A Levite of the family of Kohath, and one of the overseers of the 
temple repairs in the reign of Josiah. 2 Chron. xxxiv, 12. B. C. 624. 

10. One of the “ chief men” sent by Ezra to Iddo to gather together the 
Levites to join the caravan about to return to Jerusalem. Ezra viii, 16. B. C. 
about 457. 

11. A chief man in the time of Ezra, probably a Levite, who assisted 

Jonathan and Jahaziah in abolishing the marriages which some of the peo- 
ple had contracted with foreign wives. Ezra x, 15. B. C. 457. He is prob- 
ably the temple porter mentioned in Neh. xii, 25, which last is also called 
Meshelemiah, (1 Chron. xxvi, 1,) Shelemiah , (1 Chron. xxvi, 14,) and Shallum. 
Neh. vii, 45. ^ 

12. One of the “sons” (descendants) of Bani, who divorced his tlentile 
wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 29. B. C. 456. 

13. The son of the Berechiah who repaired a portion of the walls of 
Jerusalem after the captivity. Neh. iii, 4, 30. B. C. 445. It was his 


MeshulleMeth — miamin. 365 

daughter who married Johanan, the son of Tobiah the Ammonite. Chap, 
vi, 18. 

14. The son of Besodeiah ; he, with Jelioiada, repaired the old gate of 
Jerusalem. Nell, iii, 6. B. C. 445. 

15. One of the principal Israelites who stood at Ezra’s left hand when he 
read the law to the people. Neh. viii, 4. B. C. about 445. He is, perhaps, 
one of those who subscribed the sacred covenant. Chap, x, 20. 

16. One of the priests who signed the covenant made by Nehemiah and 
the people to serve the Lord. Neh. x, 7. 

17. A priest in the days of Joiakim, the son of Jeshua, and representative 
of the house of Ezra. Neh. xii, 13. B. C. after 536. 

18. A priest at the same time as the preceding, and a son of Ginnethon. 
Neh. xii, 16. 

MESHUL'LEMETH, (Heb. Meshulle'meth, friend,) the daugh- 

ter of Haruz of Jotbah, wife of Manasseh, king of Judah, and mother of his 
successor, Amon. 2 Kings xxi, 19. B. C. about 665. 

ME SSI' AH, (Heb. Mashi'ach, anointed ,) the special title of the 

Saviour promised to the world through the Jewish race. Dan. ix, 25, 26. It 
is twice used in the New Testament, (John i, 41 ; iv, 25 ; Authorized Ver- 
sion, “ Messias,”) but the Greek equivalent, the Christ , is constantly applied. 
While the official persons (“ the Christs ” of the Old Testament) were 
anointed as priests , (Exod. xxviii, 41; Lev. iv, 3, 5, 16; Num. xxxv, 25,) 
kings , (1 Sam. ix, 16; xvi, 3; 2 Sam. xii, 7 ;- 1 Kings i, 34,) and prophets , 
(1 Kings xix, 16,) the great Antitype, the Christ of the New Testament, em- 
braced in himself all these several offices. 

ME SSI' AS, the Grecized form (John i, 41 ; iv, 25) of Messiah, (q. v.,) 
translated Christ 

METHU'SAEL, (Heb. MethushaeV , man of God,) the son of 

Meliujael and father of Lamech, of the family of Cain. Gen. iv, 18. B. C. 
about 3875. 

METHU'SELAH, (Heb. Methushe'lach , man of the dart,) the 

son of Enoch and grandfather of Noah. He was born B. C. 3317 ; at the 
age of 187 years became the father of Lamech, after whose birth he lived 
782 years, and died at the advanced age of 969 years. Gen. v, 21, 22, 
25-27 ; 1 Chron. i, 3. 

MEZ'AHAB, (Heb. Mey-Zahdb', 3HT "O, water, that is, luster of gold.) 

the father of Matred and grandfather of Mehetabel, who was the wife of 
Hadar, or Hadad, the last-named king of Edom. Gen. xxxvi, 39 ; 1 Chron, 
i, 50. 

MI'AMIN, (Heb. Miyamin ', contraction of Miniamin.) 

1. A layman of Israel, of the family of Parosh, who divorced his Gentile 
wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 25. B. C. 456. 

2. One of the priests who came to Jerusalem with Zerubbahel from Baby- 
lon. Neh. xii, 5. B. C. about 536. He is probably the same person who is 
called Miniamin in Neh. xii, 17. 


366 


MTBHAR — MICAH. 


MIB'HAR, (Heb. Mibchar', “irQE, choice ,) the son of Haggeri, and one 
of David’s heroes. 1 Chron. xi, 38. 

Difficulty.— “ The verse in which it occurs appears to be corrupt, for in the 
corresponding catalogue of 2 Sam. xxiii, 36, we find, instead of ‘ Mibhar the son 
of Haggeri,’ ‘of Zobah, Bani the Gadite.’ It is easy to see, if the latter be the 
true reading, how Bani haggadi could be corrupted into ben-haggeri. But that 
‘Mibhar’ is a corruption of mitstsdbdh, ‘of Zobah,’ is not so clear, though not 
absolutely impossible. It would seem from the LXX of 2 Samuel that both read- 
ings originally co-existed.”— Smith, Dictionary , s, v. 

MIB'SAM, (Heb. Mibsam ', DKOD, sweet odor.) 

1. The fourth-named of the sons of Ishmael. Gen. xxv, 13; 1 Chron. 
i, 29. B. C. about 1800. 

2. The son of Shallum, and grandson of Shaul, the sixth son of Simeon. 
1 Chron. iv, 25. B. C. after 1706. 

MIB'ZAR, (Heb. Mibtsar', "1V3LD, fortress ,) one of the “dukes” (phy- 

larchs) of Edom descended from Esau. Gen. xxxvi, 42 ; 1 Chron. i, 53. B. C. 
about 1496. 

MI'CAH, (Heb. MiJcah', n:m a contracted form of the name Micaiah, 
(q-v.) 

1. A man of Mount Ephraim who lived, probably, in the time of the elders 
who survived Joshua. B. C. about 1406. He had stolen 1,100 shekels of 
silver (about $675) from his mother, but, impelled by the fear of her curse, 
had confessed and restored the money. Thereupon she put 200 shekels into 
a goldsmith’s hands to make an image (or images) for the semi-idolatrous 
establishment set up by Micah. At first Micah installed one of his sons as 
priest, but afterward appointed a wandering Levite, named Jonathan, at a 
yearly stipend. Judg. xvii. When the Danites were on their journey north- 
ward to settle in Laish they took away both the establishment and priest 
of Micah, who, upon overtaking the Danite army, found them too powerful 
for him to attack, and returned to his home. Judg. xviii, 1-26. 

Difficulty.— It is hardly certain what the words Pesel and Massecah (image 
and molten work) here mean. According to Dr. Strong (M’Clintock and Strong’s 
Cyclopaedia, s. v.) they are descriptive of teraphim, the one molten and the other 
graven ; while Keil and Delitzsch ( Commentary , in loco) suppose that Pesel was 
the image, and Massecah the pedestal upon which it stood. 

2. The son of Shimei, father of Reaia. and one of the descendants of Joel 
the Reubenite. 1 Chron. v, 5. B C. before 782. 

3. The son of Meribbaal (or Mephibosheth) and grandson of Jonathan. 
1 Chron. viii, 34, 35 ; ix, 40, 41. B. C. after 1037. 

4. (1 Chron. ix, 15.) See Micha, No. 2. 

5. The first in rank of the Kohatliites of the family of Uzziel, as arranged 
by David. 1 Chron. xxiii, 20. B. C. 1015. His son’s name was Shamir, 
and a brother Isshiah is mentioned. 1 Chron. xxiv, 24, 25, where the Au- 
thorized Version has “ Michah.” 

6. The father of Abdon. 2 Chron. xxxiv, 20. See Michaiah, 1. 

7. A prophet, styled “ the Morasthite,” as being a native of Moresheth of 
Gath. Micah i, 1, 14, 15. He is thus distinguished from a former prophet, 
Micaiah, mentioned in 1 Kings xxii, 8. The period during whicli Micah ex- 
ercised the prophetical office is stated in the superscription to his prophecies 


Micaiah. 


367 


(chap, i, 1) to have extended over the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Heze- 
kiali, kings of Judah. B. C. about 750-710. This would make him con- 
temporary with Hosea, Amos, and Isaiah. One of his prophecies (Jer. 
xxvi, 18) is distinctly assigned to the reign of Hezekiah, and was probably 
delivered before the great passover which inaugurated the reform in Judah. 
Very little is known of the circumstances of Micah’s life. He was proba- 
bly of the kingdom of Judah. For rebuking Jehoram for his impieties, 
Micah, according to Pseudo-Epiphauius, was thrown from a precipice and 
buried at Morathi in his own country, near the cemetery of Enakim. The 
Book of Micah is divided into three sections, introduced by the phrase 
“ Hear ye,” and representing three natural divisions of the prophecy. 
Chaps, i-ii, iii-v, vi-vii. 1. The first section opens with a magnificent de- 
scription of the coming of Jehovah to judgment for the sins and idolatries 
of Israel and Judah, (chap, i, 2-4,) and the sentence pronounced upon Sa- 
maria (vers. 5-7) by the Judge himself. The prophet sees the danger which 
threatens his country, and traces in imagination the devastating march of 
the Assyrian conquerors. Chap, i, 8-16. The prophet denounces a woe 
upon the people generally for the corruption and violence which were rife 
among them, and upon the false prophets who led them astray by pandering 
to their appetites and luxury. Chap, ii, 1-11. The sentence of captivity is 
passed upon them, (ver. 10,) but is followed instantly by a promise of resto- 
ration and triumphant return. Chap, ii, 12, 13. 2. The second section is 

addressed especially to the princes and heads of the people ; their avarice 
and rapacity are rebuked in strong terms. But the threatening is again 
succeeded by a promise of restoration, and in the glories of the Messianic 
kingdom the prophet loses sight of the desolation which should befall his 
country. 3. In the last section Jehovah is represented as holding a con- 
troversy with his people, pleading with them in justification of his conduct 
toward them and the reasonableness of his requirements. The prophet ac- 
knowledges and bewails the justice of the sentence ; the people in repentance 
patiently look to God and are promised deliverance, at which there is a 
concluding triumphal song of joy. The language of Micah is quoted in 
Matt, ii, 5, 6, and his prophecies are alluded to in Matt, x, 35, 36 ; Mark 
xiii, 12; Luke xii, 53 ; John vii, 42. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

MIC AF AH, (Heb. Mikayah ', JTD'O, who is like Jehovah ,) the son of Im- 

lah, a prophet of Samaria, who,, in the last year of the reign of Ahab, 
king of Israel, predicted his defeat and death. B. C. 897. Three years 
after the great battle with Benhadad, Ahab proposed to Jehosliaphat that 
they should jointly go up to battle against Ramoth-gilead. Jehosliaphat 
consented, but suggested that they should first “ inquire at the word of the 
Lord.” Ahab gathered together 400 prophets in an open space at the gate 
of the city of Samaria, who gave the unanimous response, il Go up ; for the 
Lord shall deliver it into the hand of the king.” Among them Zedekiah, 
the son of Chenaanah, made horns of iron as a symbol, and announced, from 
Jehovah, that with those horns Ahab would push the Assyrians till he con- 
sumed them. Jehosliaphat was dissatisfied with the answer, and asked if 
there was no other prophet of Jehovah at Samaria. Ahab replied that 
there was yet one — Micaiah. the son of Imlah ; but, he added, “ I hate him, 
for he does not prophesy good concerning me, but evil.” Micaiah, however, 
was sent for and urged to agree with the other prophets, “ and speak that 


368 


MICH A — MiCiiAlAti. 


which is good.” fre at first expressed an ironical concurrence, and then 
openly foretold the defeat of Ahab’s army, and the death of Ahab himself. 
He declared that the other prophets had spoken under the influence of a 
lying spirit. Upon this Zedekiah smote Micaiah upon the cheek, and Ahab 
ordered him to be taken to prison and fed upon bread and water until his 
return. 1 Kings xxii, 1-28. We hear nothing further from the prophet in 
the sacred story, but Josephus narrates that Micaiah was already in prison 
when sent for to prophesy before Ahab and Jehoshaphat, and that it was 
Micaiah who had predicted death by a lion to the son of a prophet, under 
the circumstances mentioned in 1 Kings xx, 35, 36 ; and had rebuked Ahab, 
after his brilliant victory over the Syrians, for not putting Benhadad to death. 

Difficulty.— “ The history of Micaiah is an exemplification in practice of con- 
tradictory predictions being made by different prophets. The only rule bearing 
on the judgment to be formed under such circumstances seems to have been a 
negative one. It is laid down in Deut. xviii, 21, 22, where the question is asked, 
How the children of Israel were to know the word which Jehovah had not spoken ? 
And the solution is, that ‘ if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the 
thing which Jehovah has not spoken.’ ’’—Smith, Dictionary, s. v. 

MI'CHA, (Heb. Mika', fcO'ID, who is like Jehovah ?) 

1. A son of Mephibosheth, (2 Sam. ix, 12,) given in 1 Chron. viii, 34, 35, 
as Micah, (q. v.) 

2. The son of Zabdi and father of Mattaniah, of the family of the Levite 
Asaph, (Neh. xi, 17, 22,) and probably the same that joined in the sacred 
covenant with Nehemiah. Chap, x, 11. B. C. about 445. 

MI'CHAEL, (Heb. Mikael ', who is like God?) 

1. The father of Sethur, which latter represented the tribe of Asher 
among the explorers of Canaan. Num. xiii, 13. B. C. 1490. 

2. A chief man of the tribe of Gad, mentioned among those who settled 
in the land of Bashan. 1 Chron. v, 13. B. C. 1093. 

3. Another Gadite, and ancestor of Abihail. 1 Chron. v, 14. Perhaps the 
same as No. 2. 

4. The son of Baaseiah and father of Shimea, and a Gershonite Levite 
among the ancestors of Asaph. 1 Chron. vi, 40. 

5. One of the four sons of Izrahiah, a descendant of Issachar. 1 Chron. 
vii, 3. B. C. probably about 1490. 

6. A Benjamite of the sons of Beriah. 1 Chron. viii, 1 6. 

7. A captain of the “ thousands ” of Manasseh who joined David at Zik- 
lag. 1 Chron. xii, 20. B. C. about 1056. 

8. The father of Omri, whom David appointed ruler of the tribe of Issa- 
char. 1 Chron. xxvii, 18. B C. about 1015. 

9. One of the sons of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, whom he portioned 
before his death, and who were slain by their brother Jehoram upon his 
accession. 2 Chron. xxi, 2-4. B. C. 889. 

10. A “ son ” (or descendant) of Shephatiah, whose son Zebadiah, with 82 
males, came with Ezra from Babylon. Ezra viii, 8. B. C. before 457. 

MFCHAH, (1 Chron. xxiv, 24, 25.) See Micah, No. 5. 

MICHAFAH, (another form for Micaiah.) 

1. The father of Achbor. which latter was sent by Josiah to consult with 
the prophetess Huldah. 2 Kings xxii, 12. In the parallel passage (2 Chron. 
xxxiv, 20) he is called Micah, (q. v.) 


MICHAL. 369 

2. The mother of King Abijah, (2 Chron. xiii, 2 ;) elsewhere (2 Chron. 

xi, 20) called Maachah, (q. v.) 

3. One of the princes of Jehoshaphat whom he sent to teach the law of 
Jehovah in the cities of Judah. 2 Chron. xvii, 7. B. C. 912. 

4. A priest of the family of Asaph, whose descendant, Zechariah, took 
part in the dedication of the walls of Jerusalem after the captivity. Neh. 

xii, 35. B. C. before 445. 

5. One of the priests who took part in the same ceremony. Neh. xii, 41. 
B. C. 445. 

6. The son of Gemariah, and the person who, having heard Baruch read 
the terrible predictions of Jeremiah, went and declared them to all the 
princes assembled in King Jehoiakim’s house ; and the princes forthwith 
sent for Baruch to read the prophecies to them. Jer. xxxvi, 11-14. B. C. 
about 606. 

MI'CHAL, (Heb. MikaV , brook,) Saul’s younger daughter, (1 Sam. 

xiv, 49,) probably by Ahinoam. Ver.*50. After David had slain Goliath 
Saul proposed to bestow upon him his eldest daughter, Merab; but when the 
time arrived for the marriage, she was given to Adriel the Meholathite. 
The pretext under which Saul broke his promise is not given, but it ap- 
pears to have been that Merab had no love for David. (1) Marriage. It 
was told Saul that his daughter Michal loved the young hero, and he seized 
the opportunity of exposing David to the risk of death. He asked no 
dowry of him save the slaughter of a hundred Philistines. Before the ap- 
pointed time David doubled the tale of victims, and Michal became his wife. 

1 Sam. xviii, 20-28. B. C. about 1063. (2) Saves David’s Life. Another 

great defeat inflicted by David upon the Philistines so excited the jealousy of 
Saul that he endeavored to slay him. Failing in the attempt, he sent 
watchers to David’s house to put him to death in the morning. Michal aided 
his escape by letting him down through a window, and then dressed the bed 
as if still occupied by him. She took the teraphim, (or household god,) 
laid it upon the bed, its head enveloped with a goat’s hair netting, as if to 
protect it from gnats, and the rest of the figure covered with the beged, (or 
plaid.) Saul’s messengers forced their way to the room, despite Michal’s 
declaration that David was sick, and discovered the deception. When 
Saul was informed thereof he was so enraged that Michal fabricated the 
story of David’s threatening to kill her. 1 Sam. xix, 11-17. B. C. 1062. 
(3) Second Marriage. Saul probably doubted Michal’s story of David’s 
escape, and, when the rupture between the two men became incurable, 
Michal was married to Phalti (or Phaltiel) of Gallim. 1 Sam. xxv, 44; 

2 Sam. iii, 15. (4) Restored to David. When Abner revolted to David the 

king consented to make a league with him only on this condition, “ But one 
thing I require of thee, that is, Thou shalt not see my face, except thou first 
bring Michal, . . . when thou comest to see my face.” Ishbosheth is re- 
quested to deliver up Michal, and, having done so, she is taken to the king 
by Abner, who ordered her weeping husband to return to his home. 2 Sam. 
iii, 13-16. B. C. about 1048. (5) Rupture with David. On the day of 

David’s greatest triumph, namely, that of bringing the ark of the Lord to 
Jerusalem, the king appeared in the procession, dancing and leaping. 
When he returned to his own house, Michal, who had seen him from her win- 
dow, met him with scornful words. She was offended that the king had let 


MICfiRI — MILCAIi. 


376 

himself down to the level of the people ; and availed herself of the short- 
ness of the priest’s shoulder dress to make a contemptuous remark concern- 
ing David’s dancing. David’s retort was a tremendous one, conveyed in 
words which once spoken could never be recalled. It gathered up all the 
differences between them which made sympathy no longer possible, and we 
do not need the assurance of the sacred writer that “ Michal had no child 
unto the day of her death,” to feel quite certain that all intercourse between 
her and David must have ceased from that date. 2 Sara, vi, 16-23. B. C. 
1042. Her name appears only once more, (2 Sam. xxi, 8.) as the mother 
of five sons, but the probable presumption is that Michal has been, by the 
mistake of the transcriber, substituted for Merab, who was the wife of 
Adriel. 

MICH'RI, (Heb. Mikri ', '"Oft, price of Jehovah ,) ancestor of Elah, one of 

the heads of the fathers of Benjamin (1 Chron. ix, 8) after the captivity. 
B. C. before 536. 

MID'IAN, (Heb. Midyan', pjD, strife,) the fourth-named of the six sons 

of Abraham by Keturah. Gen. xxv, 2 ; 1 Chron. i, 32. B. C. after 1853. 
Beyond the fact of his having four sons (Gen. xxv, 4 ; 1 Chron. i, 33) noth- 
ing is recorded respecting him. 

MI' J AMIN, (Heb. Miyamin', ]^Q=Miniamin, q. v.) 

1. The head of the sixth division of priests in the time of David. 1 Chron. 
xxiv, 9. B. C. 1015. 

2. One of the priests who sealed the covenant made by Nehemiah and 
the people to serve Jehovah. Neh. x, 7. B. C. 445. 

MIK'LOTH, (Heb. Mikloth ', perhaps staves.) 

1. One of the sons of Jehiel, “ the father” (or prince) of Gibeon, and fa- 
ther of Shimeah, (or Shimeam.) He was one of the Benjamite residents of 
Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 32 ; ix, 37, 38. B. C. about 536. 

2. The principal officer of the second division of the army under Dodo, in 
the reign of David. 1 Chron. xxvii, 4. B. C. 1016. 

MIKNEFAH, (Heb. Mikneya'hu , }iT3pD, possession of Jehovah,) a Le- 

vitical door-keeper of the temple and harper, appointed by order of David. 
1 Chron. xv, 18, 21. B. C. about 1042. 

MIL 7 ALAI, (Heb. Milalay', eloquent ,) one of the “priests’ sons” 

who took part in the dedication of the walls of Jerusalem. Neh. xii, 36. 
B. C. about 536. 

MIL'CAH, (Heb. Milkah', advice .) 

1. The daughter of Haran and the wife of Nahor, by whom she had 
eight children, one of whom. Bethuel, was the father of Rebekah. Gen. 
xi, 29 ; xxii, 20, 23 ; xxiv, 15, 24, 47. B. C. about 2000.’ 

2. The fourth-named of the five daughters of Zelophehad of the tribe of 
Manasseh, to whom, as they had no brothers, an inheritance was given in 
the division of the land. Hum. xxvi, 33 ; xxvii, 1 ; xxxvi, 11 ; Josh, xvii, 3. 
B. C. 1452. 


MINIAM1N — MIRIAM. 371 

MINTAMIN, (Heb. Minyamin from the right hand, or perhaps 
from Benjamin.) * T! ' 

1 . One of the Levites who had charge of the distribution to their brethren 
of the sacred offerings in the time of Hezekiah. 2 Chron. xxxi, 15. B. C. 726. 

2. One of the priests who came from Babylon with Zerubbabel, (Nell, 
xii, 17,) and perhaps one of the trumpeters at the dedication of the wall of 
Jerusalem. Chap, xii, 41. B. C. 536-445. The name is elsewhere given 
as Miamin , (Neh. xii, 5,) or Mijamin. Chap, x, 7. 

MIRTAM, (Heb. Miryam ', rebellion.) 

1. The daughter of Amram and Jochebed, and sister of Moses and Aaron. 
She is probably (Josephus, Ant., ii, 9, 4) the sister who was stationed near 
the river Nile to watch over her infant brother. (1) At Red Sea. The first 
mention of Miriam by name is when, after the passage of the Red Sea, she 
led the chorus of women who replied to the male chorus with 
timbrels and dancing. She is here called the “ sister of 
Aaron,” probably to point out the position she was to oc- 
cupy in the congregation, as ranking, not with Moses, but 
with Aaron, and, like him, subordinate to Moses. She is 
the first personage of that household to whom prophetic 
gifts are ascribed. “ Miriam the prophetess ” is her acknowl- 
edged title. Kxod xv, 20, 21. B. C. 1491. (2) Rebels 

against Moses. The exalted position of Moses aroused a 
feeling of envy in the minds of his brother and sister, and 
they at length disputed the pre-eminence of his special calling. Miriam 
instigated the open rebellion, and was followed by Aaron. An occasion 
was found for their manifestation of discontent in the Cushite wife whom 
Moses had taken. “Hath Jehovah spoken only by Moses? hath he not 
spoken also by us ? ” Summoned to the tabernacle by Jehovah, a stern 
rebuke was administered to them, and Miriam, the instigator of the rebell- 
ion, was smitten with leprosy. When Aaron saw his sister thus smitten, 
he said to Moses, “ Alas, my lord, ... lay not the sin upon us.” And 
Moses prayed unto Jehovah, “Heal her now, 0 God, I beseech thee.” God 
heard his prayer, though not without inflicting deep humiliation upon Mir- 
iam. She was shut outside of the camp, excluded from the congregation 
for seven days, after which restoration and purification from her leprosy was 
promised. During her seclusion the people did not journey any farther. 
Num. xii, 1-15. B. C. 1490. This stroke, and its removal, which took 
place at Hazeroth, form the last public event of Miriam’s life. She died to- 
ward the close of the wanderings at Kadesh, and was buried there. Num. 
xx, 1. B. C. about 1453. Her tomb was shown near Petra in the days of 
Jerome. According to Josephus she was married to the famous Hur, and, 
through him, was grandmother of the architect Bezaleel. In the Koran 
(chap, iii) she is confounded with the Virgin Mary ; and hence the holy 
family is called the family of Amram, or Imram. 

Difficulty.— The punishment of Miriam was severe, and yet just. “ In her 
haughty exaggeration of the worth of her own prophetic gift she had placed her- 
self on a par with Moses, the divinely appointed head of the whole nation, and 
exalted herself above the congregation of the Lord. For this she was afflicted with 
a disease which shut her out of the number of the members of the people of God. 
She could only be received back again after she had been healed, and by a formal 
purification.”— Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary , Num. xii. 



TIMBREL. 


372 


MIRMA— MIZZAH. 


2. Probably the first-named of the sons of Mered, of the family of Caleb, 
by Bithiah, the daughter of Pharaoh. I Chron. iv, 17. See Mered. 

MIR'MA, (Heb. Mirmah', n £>“)£>, deceit ,) the last of the seven sons of 

Shaharaim by Hodesh; born in the land of Moab. 1 Chron. viii, 10. B. C. 
after 1491. 

MISH'AEL, (Heb. Mishael', who is like God?) 

1. The first-named son of Uzziel, (son of Kohath,) the uncle of Aaron. 
Exod. vi, 22. When Nadab and Abihu died Mishael and his brother Elza- 
plian, at the command of Moses, removed their bodies from the sanctuary. 
Lev. x, 4, 5. B. C. 1490. 

2. One of those who supported Ezra, on the left, when he read the law to 
the people after the captivity. Neh. viii, 4. B. C. about 445. 

3. One of the three Jewish youths trained with Daniel at the Babylonish 
court, and promoted to the rank of magi. Dan. i, 6, 11, 19. His court name 
was Meshach. Ver. 7. They assisted Daniel in solving the dream of Nebu- 
chadnezzar, (chap, ii, 17,) and were “ set over the affairs of the province of 
Babylon.” Chap, iii, 13. They were afterward cast into the fiery furnace 
for not worshiping the image set up by the king, but, being miraculously 
preserved, were promoted by royal decree. Chap, iii, 13-30. B.C. about 580. 

MISH'AM, (Heb. Misliam', swift- going,) a son of Elpaal, a Ben- 

jamite, and one of the builders of Ono, Lod, and their suburbs. 1 Chron. 
viii, 12. B. C. after 1491. 

MISH'MA, (Heb. Mshma hearing.) 

1. The fifth son of Ishmael, and head of an Arabian tribe. Gen. xxv, 14; 
1 Chron. i, 30. B. C. about 1800. 

2. The son of Mibsam of the tribe of Simeon, and father of Hamuel. 
1 Chron. iv, 25, 26. B. C. perhaps about 1300. 

MISHMAN'NAH, (Heb. Mishmannah', fatness,) one of the 

twelve Gadite warriors who joined David in the wilderness of Adullam. 
1 Chron. xii, 10. B. C. about 1058. 

MISFE'RETH, (Heb. same, rpQDD, a numbering ,) one of those who 

returned with Zerubbabel from Babylon. Neh. vii, 7. B. C. about 445. He 
is called Mizpar in Ezra ii, 2. 

MITH'REDATH, (Heb. Mitiiredath ', JVnriD, given by Mithras.) 

1. The treasurer of Cyrus, king of Persia, to whom the king gave the 
vessels of the temple, to be by him transferred to the hands of Sheshbazzar, 
the prince of Judah. Ezra i, 8. B. C. 536. 

2. A Persian officer, stationed in Samaria, who joined in writing a letter 
to Artaxerxesin opposition to the Jews. Ezra iv, 7. B. C. 522. 

MIZ'PAR, (Heb. Misjpar ', "|QDE, number, Ezra ii, 2.) See Misperetii. 
MIZ ZAH, (Heb. Mizzali', n7E>, fear,) the fourth and last of the sons of 

Reuel, the son of Esau by Bathsliemath, (Gen. xxxvi, 13 ; 1 Chron. i, 37,) 
and a petty Edomite chieftain. Gen. xxxvi, 17. B. C. about 1715. 


MNASON — MORDECAI. 


373 


MNA'SON, (Gr. Mvacrov, perhaps reminding ,) a Christian with whom 
Paul lodged the last time he was in Jerusalem. Acts xxi, 16. A. D. 60. 
He was a native of Cyprus, and may have been acquainted with Barnabas, 
who was a Cyprian. Acts iv, 36. 

MO'AB, (Heb. Mo'db ', watet [seed] of father ,) the name of the son 

whom Lot’s eldest daughter bore to him after the destruction, and founder 
of the Moabites. Gen. xix, 30-37. B. C. 1897. 

MOADFAH, (Neh. xii, 17.) See Maadiah. 

MO 'LID, (Heb. Molid ', begetter ,) the son of Abishur by his wife 

Abihail, and descendant of Jerahmeel. 1 Chron. ii, 29. ♦ B. C. about 1471. 

MOR'DECAI, (Heb. MordeJcay ', little man; or from Herodach, 

worshiper of Mars.) 5 ! T 

1. A chief man among the Israelites who returned from Babylon to Je- 
rusalem with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 2 j Neh. vii, 7. B. C. 536. Perhaps the 
same as the following. 

2. The son of Jair, a descendant of Kish the Benjamite. He resided at 

Shushan, the metropolis of Persia, at the time when Xerxes desired a suc- 
cessor to Queen Yashti, and had under his care his adopted daughter, Ha- 
dasseh, (Esther.) Among the fairest damsels of the land, who were gath- 
ered at the palace, was Esther, upon whom the king’s choice fell. (1) Serv- 
ice to the King. Mordecai sat in the king’s gate in those days, (that is, 
probably, held some office in or about the palace,) and became aware of the 
plot of two of the chamberlains against the life of the king, which, through 
Esther, was made known to the monarch. While the conspirators were pun- 
ished no reward seems to have been bestowed upon Mordecai. Esther ii, 5, 23. 
B. C. about 515. (2) Jews Threatened. Some years after the king pro- 

moted Haman. Mordecai alone refused to manifest the customary signs of 
homage to the royal favorite. Some think his refusal to bow before Ha- 
man arose from religious scruples, as if such salutation as was practiced in 
Persia were akin to idolatry ; others, as seems far more probable, that he 
refused from a stern unwillingness as a Jew to bow before an Amalekite. 
Haman’s indignation was aroused, and he determined upon revenge. Remem- 
bering the avowed eumity of the Israelites against his people, he resolved 
upon their extermination, and obtained from the king a decree for the slaughter 
of all the Jews in the empire. When Mordecai learned what had been done 
he “ rent his clothes, and put on sackcloth with ashes, and went out into the 
midst of the city, and cried with a loud and bitter cry.” Esther, having 
been informed of this through her servants, sent Hatach, one of the king’s 
chamberlains, to learn the cause of Mordecai’s grief. He sent word to the 
queen of the decree of extermination against the Jews, and an exhortation 
for her to interfere in behalf of herself and people. Esther was equal to 
the occasion, and seizing a favorable opportunity, presented herself unbid- 
den before Xerxes, and secured his consent to come with Haman to a ban- 
quet on the following day. (3) Exaltation. That night the monarch could 
not sleep, and commanded the records to be read to him. Providentially 
that part of them was read which referred to the conspiracy frustrated by 
Mordecai. In answer to his question, “ What honor and dignity hath been 
done to Mordecai for this ? ” the king’s attendants replied, “ Nothing.” He 


374 


MOSES. 



then asked, “ Who is in the court? ” and they said, “ Behold, Haman stand* 
eth in the court.” The king said, “Let him come in,” and then asked him, 


COURT OF A HOUSE IN DAMASCUS. 

“What shall be done unto the man whom the king delighteth to honor?” 
Haman, supposing that he was the person alluded to, named the highest and 
most public honor he could conceive of, and received the astounding answer, 
“ Do even so to Mordecai the Jew that sitteth at the king’s gate.” The 
next day Haman was hanged on the gallows that he had prepared for Mor- 
decai. Chap, vii, 7. B. C. 510. Mordecai was summoned into the royal 
presence, and was promoted to the position so recently held by Haman, 
(chap, viii, 1, 2, 15,) “ and his fame went out throughout all the prov- 
inces.” Chap, ix, 4. The first use he made of his power was, as far as 
possible, to counteract the decree obtained by Haman, which could not be 
recalled as the kings of Persia had no power to rescind a decree once is- 
sued. The Jews were permitted to stand on their defense, and so were pre- 
served from destruction. The feast of Purim was instituted in memory of 
this deliverance, and is observed to this day. Chap, ix, x. Mordecai is 
supposed to be the author of the book of Esther, which contains the nar- 
rative. 

MO'SES, the deliverer, leader, lawgiver, and prophet of Israel. 

1. Name and Family. The name in Hebrew is Moshelv drawn 

out, and is probably the form given to a foreign word. The Alexandrine 
Jews assigned it an Egyptian origin, from mo, water , and ouses, saved; that 
is, “ water-saved '.” His original Plebrew name is said to have been Joachim. 
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moses. 375 

Jochebed. The other members of the family were Aaron and Miriam, his 
elder brother and sister. His immediate pedigree is as follows ; 

Levi. 


Gershon. 

Kohatk. 

Merari, 


Amram to Jochebed, 

1 


1 

Hur to Miriam. 

Aaron to Elisheba. 

1 

1 

Moses to Zipporah. 

Nadab. Abihu. 

Eleazar. Ithamar. 

Gersliom. Eliezer. 


Pkinehas. 

1 

Jonathan. 


2. Personal History. The life of Moses is divided into three equal 
portions of forty years each, (Acts vii, 23, 30, 36 :) his life in Egypt, exile 
in Arabia, and government of Israel. (1) Life in Egypt. 1 . Birth , etc. 
Moses was born B. C. 1571, and, according to Manetho, (Josephus, Ap., i, 
26 ; ii, 2,) at Heliopolis ; his birth, according to Josephus, {Ant., ii, 9, 2-4,) 
having been foretold to Pharaoh by the Egyptian magicians, and to his fa- 
ther by a dream. At the time of Moses’s birth the decree (Exod. i, 10, 16) 
commanding the slaying of all male children was in force, but his mother 
was by some means able to conceal it, and hid him away for three months. 
When concealment was no longer possible she placed him in a small boat or 
basket of papyrus — perhaps from an Egyptian belief that the plant is a 
protection from crocodiles. She deposited him among the reeds of the 
Nile, and left his sister to watch the result. The daughter of Pharaoh came 
to the river to bathe, saw the basket, and had it brought to her. It was 
opened, and the cry of the child moved the princess to compassion. She 
determined to rear it as her own. The sister was then at hand to recom- 
mend as Hebrew nurse the babe’s mother, who was hired by the princess. 
2. Adoption. The child was adopted by the king’s daughter, and fr om this 
time for many years Moses must be considered as an Egyptian. Exod. ii, 
1-10. In the Pentateuch this period is a blank, but in the New Testament 
he is represented as “ educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians,” and 
“ mighty in words and deeds.” Acts vii, 22. 3. Avenges his countryman. 

When he was forty years old (Acts vii, 23) Moses resolved to cast in his lot 
with his brethren, (Heb. xi, 24-26,) and seeing an Israelite suffering the 
bastinado from an Egyptian, and thinking that they were alone, he slew the 
Egyptian and buried the corpse in the sand. The next day he endeavored 
to act as peace-maker between two Hebrews, but his kindly offices were re- 
fused by them. It became evident to him that the time for the deliverance 
of his people had not yet arrived, and that safety was to be found only in 
flight. Exod. ii, 11-15. B. C. 1531. (2) Exile. 1. Marnaqe. Moses fled, 
B. C. 1531, into Midian, in or near the peninsula of Sinai, and rested him- 
self by a well, where he chivalrously aided some maidens to water their 
sheep. By his help they returned to their home earlier than usual, and 
upon telling their father, Jethro, the reason, he had Moses called in, and 
after a while gave him his daughter .Zippora h to wife, Moses assuming 
charge of his father-in-law’s flock. Exod. ii, 'l 5 ; iii, 1. 2. Call. In the 

seclusion of this shepherd life Moses received his call as a prophet. The 
traditional scene of this event is in the valley of Shoeity on the north side 

24 


376 


MOSES. 



of Jebel Mfisa, but we are unable to fix the spot with any certainty. It was 
at “ the back” of the “ wilderness” at Horeb, (Exod. iii, 1;) to which the 
Hebrew adds, while the LXX omits, “ the mountain, of God.” Upon the 
mountain was a well-known acacia, the thorn-tree of the desert, spreading 
out its tangled branches, thick set with white thorns, over the rocky ground. 
The angel of the Lord appeared to Moses in a flame of fire in the midst of 
the bush, the dry branches of which would naturally have burned in a 
moment, but which remained unconsumed. The twofold revelation was 
made to Moses (1) of the eternal self-existence of the one God ; (2) of his 
mission to deliver his own people. Two signs attested to him his divine 
mission, namely, the crook turned into a serpent, and the hand of Moses 
made leprous and afterward cleansed. Should these be disbelieved by the 
people a third was promised, that the waters of the Nile thrown by Moses 
upon the land would be turned into blood. The objection of Moses, “ Lord, 
I am not a man of words,” etc., was answered by the promise of Jehovah’s 
assistance. Moses’s difficulties were now all exhausted and removed by the 
assurances of God, but, unwilling to undertake the mission, Aaron is to be 
his spokesman, and Moses consents. 3. Return to Egypt. He now re- 
turned to the home of his father-in-law, and received permission to visit 
his brethren. God appeared to him and assured him of the death of all 
those in Egypt who sought his life. Moses then set out upon his journey 
with his wife and sons. On the way Moses, threatened with death by Je- 
hovah, was spared upon the circumcision of his son. See Difficulties. 
It would seem to have been in consequence of this event, whatever it was, 
that the wife and her children were sent back to Jethro, and remained with 
him till Moses joined them at Rephidim. Exod. xviii, 2-6. He once more 
received a token of the divine favor in the arrival of Aaron, who met him 
at the “Mount of God” and went with him to Egypt, and communicated 
to the people of Israel the words of Jehovah. Exod. iv. B. C. 1491. 
(3) Governor of Israel. The history of Moses henceforth is the history of 
Israel for forty years. He and Aaron appeared before Pharaoh to demand 
permission for the children of Israel to go the wilderness and sacrifice to 
Jehovah. Then followed the contest between these two men and the king, 
and the plagues sent by Jehovah. Exod. v-xii. 1. Exodus. On the night 
of the exode Moses took the decisive lead, and after that he is usually men- 
tioned alone. Under the divine direction Moses did not lead the people by 
the nearest way to the Promised Land, namely, through the country of the 
Philistines, lest, being opposed by the Philistines, the Israelites should turn 
back into Egypt. “But God let the people turn to the way of the wilder-* 
ness of the Red Sea,” (Exod. xiii, 17, 18,) through which the Israelites 
passed in safety while the hosts of Pharaoh perished in its waves. 2. Journey 
to Sinai. From the Rea Sea Moses led Israel through Marah, where the 
bitter waters were sweetened, (Exod. xv, 23 ;) Elim, where were twelve 
wells of water and seventy palm-trees, (Exod. xv, 27 ;) the wilderness of 
Sin, where the people murmured for want of bread, and were supplied with 
quails and manna, (Exod. xvi;) Rephidim, during which the smitten rock 
of Horeb gave forth water, (Exod. xvii, 1-7 ;) the hands of Moses, upheld 
by Aaron and Hur, inspired the Israelites with courage, so that they de- 
feated the Amalekites, (Exod. xvii, 8-16 ;) and Jethro, Moses’s father-in-law, 
brought to him his wife and two sons. Exod. xviii. 3. At Sinai. Arrived at 
Sinai, Moses responded to the call of Jehovah, and going up into the Mount 


MOSES. 


877 


of God received the message to the people to prepare for the divine commu- 
nications, (Exod. xix, 1-13 ;) led the people to the nether part of the mount 
on the third day, where they received the decalogue, (chap, xix, 14 ; xx, 17 ;) 
conducted the ceremony of ratifying the covenant, (chap, xxiv, 3,) reading all 
the “words of the Lord” (chap, xx, 22-26) and “all the judgments,” (chap, 
xxi-xxiii:) tarried forty days and nights in the mount, (chap, xxiv, 18,) 
receiving details of the plan of the sanctuary and worship of God 
(chap, xxv-xxxi) on the tables of stone. Chap, xxxi, 18. In chap, xxxii 
we have a vivid description of the righteous indignation of Moses at the 
sin of Israel in the worship of the golden calf, which led him to destroy the 
tables of stone, and call for volunteers to slay the idolaters, (vers. 1-29 ;) 
and his uo less earnest zeal in the capacity of mediator. Chap, xxxii, 30- 
xxxiii, 16. The glory of Jehovah was revealed to him (vers. 17-23) and 
the tables of the law renewed, (chap, xxxiv, 1-4 ;) a covenant was made 
with Israel, (vers. 10-27,) and after a second stay of forty days upon the 
mount Moses returned to the people, his shining face covered with a vail. 
Vers. 28-35. Moses then superintended the erection of the tabernacle and 
the preparation of the apparatus for worship, (chap, xxxv-xl ;) received the 
“ spiritual statute-book ” of Israel as the congregation of Jehovah, (Lev. i-vii ;) 
and consecrated Aaron and his sons for the priesthood. Lev. viii, ix. Judg- 
ment was executed upon Nadab and Abihu, (chap, x,) and further regula- 
tions promulgated. Chaps, xi-xxvii. After this Moses numbered the people, 
(Num. i;) arranged the order of the tribes in the camp and on the march, 
(chap, ii ;) numbered the Levites and arranged for their special calling, 
(chaps, iii, iv ;) gave directions respecting unclean persons, trespass, Naza- 
rites, etc., (chaps, v, vi ;) received the dedicatory gifts from the princes of 
the tribes, (chap, vii ;) consecrated the Levites, (chap, viii,) and prepared 
for the onward journey. Chaps, ix-x, 10. 4. Journey. On the twentieth day 
of the second month of the second year the cloud, lifted from the taber- 
nacle, announced that the time to leave Sinai had come. Moses accordingly 
gave the order to march, and the people moved forward. Num. x, 11, sq. 
Mention is made of Moses securing, by prayer, the queuching of the fire at 
Taberah, (chap, xi, 1-3 ;) Moses’s complaint of the burden of his charge and 
the appointment of seventy elders, (chap, xi, 10-30';) the sedition of Miriam 
and Aaron, (chap, xii ;) the sending out of the spies, (chaps, xiii, xiv ;) the 
rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, (chap, xvi ;) the death of Miriam 
and Aaron, and the smiting of the rock at Meribah, (chap, xx ;) the plague 
of serpents, (chap, xxi ;) the appointment of Joshua by Moses as his suc- 
cessor, (chap, xxvii ;) the assignment of their inheritance to the Reubenites 
and Gadites, (chap, xxxii :) the appointment of commissioners to divide the 
promised land, (chap, xxxiv ;) Moses’s farewell address. Deut. i-xxxiii. 
5. Death. For forty years the care and burden of the Israelites had been upon 
the mind and heart of Moses. The people are encamped in Moab, awaiting 
the command to pass over Jordan into the land of promise. Moses had 
sinned at Meribah (Num. xx, 12) in not sanctifying Jehovah in the eyes of 
the people, and had thereby forfeited the privilege of entering Canaan. At 
the command of God he blessed the people, and then ascended Nebo, a peak 
of Pisgah, from which a view was taken of the land promised to Abraham 
and Isaac and Jacob. After this favor had been granted him Moses died, 
and was buried by Jehovah “ in a valley in the land of Moab, over against 
^eth-peor,” in an unknown sepulcher. Deut. xxxiv, 1-6. B, C. 14$ 1. 


378 


MOSES. 


3. Character and Writings. “ Moses was in a sense peculiar to him- 
self the founder and representative of his people. And, in accordance with 
this complete identification of himself with his nation, is the only strong 
personal trait which we are able to gather from his history. Num. xii, 3. The 
word meek is hardly an adequate reading of the Hebrew Ijy, which should 

rather be much enduring. It represents what we should now designate by 
the word disinterested. All that is told of him indicates a withdrawal of 
himself, a preference of the cause of his nation to his own interests, which 
makes him the most complete example of Jewish patriotism.*’ — Smith, Dic- 
tionary, s. v. He joins his countrymen in their degrading servitude, (Exod 
ii, 11 ; v, 4,) and forgets himself to avenge their wrongs. Chap, ii, 14. He 
desires that his brother should be leader instead of himself, (Exod. iv, 13 ;) 
and when Jehovah offers to destroy the people and make of him a great 
nation (Exod. xxxii, 10) he prays for their forgiveness — “ If not, blot me, 
1 pray thee, out of thy book which thou hast written.” Chap, xxxii, 32. 
Writings. Although much controversy has been carried on respecting the 
extent of the authorship of Moses, it is probable that there should be attrib- 
uted to him the Pentateuch, (as far as Deut. xxxi, 23,) the Song of Moses, 
(Deut. xxxii, 1-43,) the blessing of Moses on the tribes, (Deut. xxxiii, 1-29,) 
and the ninetieth Psalm. The evidences of Moses being the author of the 
Pentateuch are thus summed up by Keil, ( Introduction to the Old Testament, 
p. 100, sq. :) (1) In Exod. xvii, 14, after the victory over the Amalekites, 
Moses receives the divine command to write in the book, (IDDB?) for a memo- 
rial, the will of God that Amalek should be utterly blotted out. According 
to Exod. xxiv, 3, 4. Moses wrote the words of the coveuant and the “ rights ” 
of Israel (Exod. xx, 2-17 ; xxi-xxiii) in the Book of the Covenant.” Ac- 
cording to Num. xxxiii, 2, he wrote down the camping stations of the Israel- 
ites in the wilderness by the divine command. (2) According to Deut. xxxi, 
9-11, Moses wrote the law and gave it to the priests, with the command to 
read it before all Israel at the feast of tabernacles, (vers. 24-26 :) “ And it 
came to pass, when Moses had made an end of writing the words of this 
law in a book until they were finished, that Moses commanded the Leviies, 

. . . Take this book of the law, and put it in the side of the ark of the cove- 
nant of the Lord your God, that it may be there for a witness against thee.” 
To this double testimony we must add Deut. xvii, 18, that the future king 
who should be chosen was to write “ a copy of this law ” for himself, and 
was to read therein every day ; chap, xxvii, 1-8, where Moses commands 
the people to set up on Mount Ebal great stones overlaid with plaster, 
and to write upon these all the words of this law, which was actually done, 
(Josh, viii, 30-35;) and chap, xxviii, 58, 61; xxix, 19, 20,26, where Moses 
threatens if they do not obey the law written in this book; and chap, xxx, 
10, where he promises blessings if they “ keep his commandments and his 
statutes which are written in this book of the law." (4) Later Scripture Ref- 
erence. In the Old Testament the name of Moses does not occur so fre- 
quently, after the close of the Pentateuch, as might be expected. In the 
Judges (chap, xviii, 30) the name is given as “ Manasseh” in the Hebrew 
copies and Authorized Version, in order to avoid the admission that the 
great lawgiver’s grandson was the first idolatrous priest among them. In 
the Psalms and the Prophets, however, he is frequently named as the chief 
Of the prophets. “ In the New Testament he is referred to as the repre- 


MOZA— MUTH-LABBEN. 879 

tentative of the law, especially in the vision of the transfiguration, where 
he appears side by side with Elijah. As the author of the law he is con- 
trasted with Christ, the Author of the Gospel : ‘ The law was given by 
Moses.’ John i, 17. The ambiguity and transitory nature of his glory is 
set against the permanence and clearness of Christianity, (2 Cor. iii. 13-18,) 
and his mediatorial character against the unbroken communication of God 
in Christ. Gal. iii, 19. His ‘ service ’ of God is contrasted with Christ’s 
sonship. Heb. iii, 5, 6. 1. Moses is, as it would seem, the only character of 

the Old Testament to whom Christ expressly likens himself— 4 Moses wrote 
of me.’ John v, 46. It suggests three main points of likeness : (a) Christ 
was, like Moses, the great prophet of the people— the last, as Moses was 
the first, (b) Christ, like Moses, is a Lawgiver: ‘Him shall ye hear.’ 
(c) Christ, like Moses, was a Prophet out of the midst of the nation — 1 from 
their brethren.-’ As Moses was the entire representative of his people, 
feeliug for them more than for himself, absorbed in their interests, hopes, 
and fears, so, with reverence be it said, was Christ. 2. In Heb. iii, 1-19 ; 
xii, 24-29 ; Acts vii, 37, Christ is described, though more obscurely, as the 
Moses of the new dispensation — as the Apostle, or Messenger, or Mediator 
of God to the people — as the Controller and Leader of the flock or house- 
hold of God. 3. The details of their lives are sometimes, though not often, 
compared. Acts vii, 24-28, 35. In Jude 9 is an allusion to an altercation 
between Michael and Satan over the body of Moses. It probably refers to 
a lost apocryphal book, mentioned by Origen, called the ‘ Ascension, or As- 
sumption, of Moses.’ ” — Smith, Dictionary, s. v. 

MO'ZA, (Heb. Motsa', going forth.) 

1. The second son of Caleb by his concubine Ephah. 1 Chron. ii, 46. 
B. C. about 1471. 

2. Son of Zimri, and descendant of Saul. 1 Chron. viii, 36, 37 ; ix, 42, 43. 
B. C. after 1037. 

MUP'PIM, (Heb. Muppirn', D'QD,) a Benjamite, and one of the fourteen 

descendants of Rachel who belonged to the original colony of the sons of Ja- 
cob in Egypt. Gen. xlvi, 21. In Num. xxvi, 39, the name is written Shupham ; 
in 1 Chron. vii, 12, 15, it is Shuppim, and in 1 Chron. viii, 5, Shephupham. 

MU'SHI, (Heb. Mushi', receding ,) the son of Merari, the son of Ko- 

hath. Exod. vi, 19; Hum. iii, 20; 1 Chron. vi, 19, 47 ; xxiii, 21, 23; xxiv, 
26, 30. B. C. about 1619. His descendants were called Mushites. Num. 
iii, 33 ; xxvi, 58. 

MUTH-LAB'BEN, (Heb. fully, al muth labben', perhaps, upon 

the death of the son,) a phrase occurring only in the title of Psalm ix. It has 
been very common to suppose that there is here the name of a person. The 
Jewish commentator Kimchi, according to Gesenius, mentions that some 
explained it “ upon the death of Labben,” a person wholly unknown. The 
Targum renders, “ On the death of the man who came forth from between 
the camps,” alluding to Goliath. An old opinion, seconded by Fiirst, is 
that it should be translated “ upon the death of Ben,” a Levite appointed 
to preside over the music at the removal of the ark. 1 Chron. xv, 18. Very 
many other conjectures have been made, but they need not be inserted 
here. (See M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia , s. v.) 


§80 


NAAM-- NAAMAtf. 


NA'AM, (Heb. same, DJJJ, pleasantness ,) one of the sons of Caleb, the 
son of Jephunneh. 1 Chron. iv, 15. B. C. about 1451. 

NA'AMAH, (Heb. Naamah pleasant.) 

1. One of the four women whose names are preserved in the records of 
the world before the Flood ; all except Eve being Cainites. She was daugh- 
ter of Lamech and Zillah and sister of Tubal-cain. Gen. iv, 22. B. 0. 
about 3875. 

2. Wife of Solomon and mother of King Rehoboam. 1 Kings xiv, 21, 31 ; 
2 Chron. xii, 13. On each occasion she is distinguished by the title “ the 
(not “ an,” as in Authorized Version) Ammonite.” She was therefore one of 
the foreign women whom Solomon took into his establishment. 1 Kings 
xi, 1. B. C. 975. 

NA'AMAN, (Heb. Naaman', pleasantness.) 

1. One of the family of Benjamin who came down to Egypt with Jacob, 
as read in Gen. xlvi, 21, or, more correctly, born in Egypt. According to 
the LXX version of that passage he was the son of Bela, which is the par- 
entage assigned to him in Xum. xxvi, 40, where, in the enumeration of the 
sons of Benjamin, he is said to be the sou of Bela, and head of the family 
of the Naamites. He is also reckoned among the sons of Bela in 1 Chron. 
viii, 3, 4. B. C. after 1706. 

2. “The Syrian ” was commander of the armies of Benhadad II., (Jose- 
phus, Ant., viii, 15, 5,) king of Damascene Syria. He is described as “ a 
great man with his master, and honorable, ... a mighty man of valor.” 
He was, however, a leper ; and when a little Hebrew captive girl spoke of 
a prophet in Samaria who could cure her master of leprosy, Benhadad fur- 
nished him with a letter to King Joram. But when the king read the letter 
to the effect that Naaman had been sent to him to be cured he rent his clothes, 
suspecting that the object was a Quarrel. Elisha the prophet hearing of 
this sent for Naaman, who came to his house, not being permitted as a leper 
to enter. Elisha sent, a messenger to him saying, “ Go and wash in Jor- 
dan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt 
be clean.” Naaman was very indignant at the apparent incivility, and would 
doubtless have returned to Syria without a cure but for the entreaties 
of his servants. He bathed in the Jordan and was cleansed of his lep- 
rosy. Returning to Elisha, he acknowledged that Jehovah was above all 
gods, and declared his intention of worshiping him alone. He asked per- 
mission to take home two mules’ burden of earth, probably to set up in 
Damascus an altar to Jehovah. He desired to bestow valuable gifts upon 
Elisha, but the prophet refused to accept any thing. His servant, Gehazi, 
coveting some of the riches proffered his master, hastened after Naaman 
and asked, in his master’s name, for a portion. Naaman heard his request, 
and granted him more than he had asked. 2 Kings v, 1-23. B. C. 894. 

Character. “ Naaman’s appearance throughout the occurrence is 
most characteristic and consistent. He is every inch a soldier, ready at 
once to resent what he considers a slight cast either on himself or the 
natural glories of his country, and blazing out in a moment into sudden 
‘ rage,’ but calmed as speedily by a few good-humored and sensible words 
from his dependents, and, after the cure has been effected, evincing a thank- 


KAARAtt— 1STABAL. 881 

Ail and simple heart, whose gratitude knows no bounds and will listen to 
no refusal.” — M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopedia , s. v. 

Difficulties.— (1) The expression, “Because that by him Jehovah had given 
deliverance to Syria,” (ver. 1,) seems to point to services such as were incidentally 
to subserve the divine purposes toward Israel, and may on this account have been 
ascribed to Jehovah. (2) Naaman’s request to be allowed to take away two 
mules’ burden of earth is not easy to understand. The natural explanation is 
that, with a feeling akin to that which prompted the Pisan invaders to take away 
the earth of Aceldama for the Campo Santo at Pisa, the grateful convert to Jeho- 
vah wished to take away some of the earth of his country, to form an altar. But 
in the narrative there is no mention of an altar. 

NA'ARAH, (Heb. Naarah', my}, a girl,) the second-named of the two 

wives of Ashur of the tribe of Judah, and the mother by him of four sons. 
1 Chron. iv, 5, 6. B. C. about 1491. 

NA'ARAI, Heb. Nadray ', boyish ,) the son of Ezbai, and one of 

David’s heroes. 1 Chrou. xi, 37. B. C. 1047. In 2 Sam. xxiii, 35, he is in- 
correctly called Paarai. 

NA'ASHON, (Exod. vi, 23.) See Nahshon. 

NA'ASSON, the Grecized form (Matt, i, 4 ; Luke iii, 32) of the Heb. 
Nahshon, (q. v.) 

NA'BAL, (Heb. Nabal ', foolish ,) a descendant of Caleb who dwelt 

in Maon (probably the modern Main, seven miles south-east of Hebron) 
when David, with his followers, was on the southern borders of Palestine. 
1 Sam. xxv, 2, sq. B. C. about 1060. He was a man of great wealth, hav- 
ing 3,000 sheep and 1,000 goats, which he pastured in Carmel, (not the 
promontory of that name, but the present Kurin ul on the mountains of 
Judah.) When David heard in the desert (ver. 1) that Nabal was shearing 
his sheep, which was generally accompanied with festivities, he sent ten 
young men to Carmel to Nabal. and bade them wish him peace and pros- 
perity, to remind him of David’s friendly services, and solicit a present for 
himself and people. The service alluded to was doubtless protection af- 
forded by David and his men to Nabal’s shepherds and flocks against the 
Bedouin Arabs. Nabal refused the petitioners in a very churlish manner : 
“ Who is David ? and who is the son of Jesse ? there be many servants 
nowadays that break away every man from his master. Shall I then take 
my bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my shearers, 
and give it unto men, whom I. know not whence they be?” Vers. 10, 11, 
Thus, in order to justify his covetousness, he set down David as a worthless 
vagrant. David was greatly enraged at this reply, and started with 400 men 
to take vengeance upon Nabal. In the meantime, one of Nabai’s servants 
told Abigail, his intelligent and godly wife, what had taken place. As 
quickly as possible she took a bountiful present of provisions, (ver. 18,) and, 
sending it to David, followed herself to appease his wrath. They met, and 
Abigail, throwing herself at David’s feet, besought his forgiveness. Da- 
vid’s anger was appeased, and in his reply he praised Jehovah for having 
sent Abigail to meet him, (ver. 32,) aud congratulated her upon her under- 
standing and acts, which had kept him from bloodshed. Ver. 33. He re- 
ceived her gifts, and dismissed her with the assurance that he had granted 


382 


NABOTH — NADAB. 


her request. Ver. 35. All this had occurred without the knowledge of Na- 
bal, and when Abigail returned and found him in a drunken stupor she told 
him nothing until the next morning. Conscious of the danger that had 
threatened him, angry at the loss he had sustained, or vexed because his 
wife had humbled herself in such a manner, “his heart died within him, 
and he became as a stone.” Ver. 37. It was as if a stroke of apoplexy 
or paralysis had fallen upon him. He seems not to have changed in his 
nature by his affliction, for ten days later “ the Lord smote Nabal that he 
died.” Ver. 38. David not long after took Abigail for his wife. Vers. 
40-42. 

NA'BOTH, (Heb. Naboth fruits, or •pre-eminence ,) was an Israelite 

of Jezreel, and the owner of a small portion of ground (2 Kings ix, 25, 26) 
that lay on the eastern slope of the hill of Jezreel. He had also a vineyard, 
of which the situation is not quite certain. The royal palace of Ahab was 
close upon the city wall at Jezreel. According to both texts it immediately 
adjoined the vineyard, and it thus became an object of desire to the king, 
who offered an equivalent in money, or another vineyard in exchange for this. 
Naboth, in the independent spirit of a Jewish landholder, refused. “ Jehovah 
forbid it to me that I should give the inheritance of my fathers unto thee.” 
Ahab was cowed by this reply; but the proud spirit of Jezebel was roused. 
She took the matter into her own hands ; wrote letters in Ahab’s name to the 
elders and nobles of Jezreel, directing them to proclaim a fast, and that 
Naboth should be placed at the head of the services. Two men of worth- 
less character accused him of having “blasphemed God and the king,” and 
be and his children (2 Kings ix, 26) were stoned to death. Jezebel then 
informed Ahab of the death of Naboth, whereupon he took possession. 
The perpetration of this crime brought upon Ahab and Jezebel the severest 
punishment. 1 Kings xxi. B. C. 809. 

NA'CHON, (Heb. Nakon ' jisj, prepared ,) a name by which the thresh- 
ing-floor was known near which Uzzah was slain. 2 Sam. vi, 6. It is un- 
certain whether this is the name of the owner or merely an epithet applied 
to it, that is, the prepared floor. In 1 Chron. xiii, 9, it is called the floor of 
Chidon, which is supposed by some to be another name of the owner. 
Eventually it was known by the name of Perez-uzzah. 2 Sam. vi, 8. 

NA'OHOR, a more accurate form of the name Nahor, (q. v.) 

1. The brother of Abraham. Josh, xxiv, 2. 

2. The grandfather of Abraham. Luke iii, 34. 

NA'DAB, (Heb. Nadab', XI 3, spontaneous , liberal.) 

1. The eldest son of Aaron and Elisheba. Exod. vi, 23; Num. iii, 2. 
B. C. about 1530. He, his father and brother, and seventy old men of Is- 
rael were led out from the midst of the assembled people, (Exod. xxiv, 1.) 
and were commanded to stay and worship God “ afar off,” below the lofty 
summit of Sinai, where Mose3 alone was to come near to the Lord. B. C. 
1491. Nadab and his brothers Abiliu, Eleazar, and Ithamar were anointed, 
with their father, to be priests of Jehovah. Exod. xxviii, 1. He and his 
brother, in offering incense, kindled it with “ strange ” fire, that is, lire not 
taken from that which burned perpetually (Lev. vi, 13) on the altar, and for 
this offense were struck dead before the sanctuary by fire from the Lord. 


NAGGE — NAHASH. 


38S 


Lev. x, 1, 2 ; Num. iii, 4 ; xxvi, 61. On this occasion, as if to mark more 
decidedly the divine displeasure, Aaron and his surviving sons were forbid- 
den to observe the usual mourning ceremonies for the dead. Rosenmiiller 
supposes, from the injunction, (Lev. x, 9, 10,) that the brothers were in a 
state of intoxication when they committed the offense. 

2. King Jeroboam’s son, who succeeded to the throne of Israel B. 0. 
954, and reigned two years. 1 Kings xv, 25-31. He followed the idolatrous 
policy of his father. (Compare chaps, xv, 3, and xii, 30.) At the siege of 
Gibbethon a conspiracy broke out in the midst of the army, and the king 
was slain by Baasha, a man of Issachar. 

3. A son of Sliammai, (1 Chron. ii, 28,) of the tribe of Judah, and father of 
two sons. Yer. 30. B. C. about 1411. 

4. A son of Jehiel, the “father” (founder) of Gibeon, (1 Chron. viii, 30; 
ix, 36,) of the tribe of Benjamin. B. C. perhaps about 1013. 

• 

NAG'GE, (rather Nangce , Gr. N ayyai, for Heb. Nogdh , rtfj, 1 Chron. 

iii, 1,) an ancestor of Jesus in the maternal line, the son of Maath, and 
father of Esli. Luke iii, 25. 

NA'HAM, (Heb. Nach'am , Qnj, consolation ,) a brother of Hodiah, (or 

Jehudijah,) the second, or Jewish, wife of Mered. He was the father of 
Keilah the Garmite and Eshtemoa. 1 Chron. iv, 19. He is probably the 
same as Ishbah. Yer. 17. 

NAHAM'ANI, (Heb. Nachamany ', ’•JtartJj compassionate ,) a chief man 

among those who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Neh. vii, 7. 
B. C. about 445. 

NA'HARAI, (1 Chron. xi, 39.) See Nahari. 

NA'HARI, (Heb. Nacharay ', ’nrp, snorer, the Beerothite, who was one 

of David’s mighty men and the armor-bearer of Joab. 1 Chron. xi, 39 ; 
2 Sam. xxiii, 37. B. C. 1018. 

NA'HASH, (Heb. Nachash', serpent.) 

1. “Nahash the Ammonite,” king of the Ammonites at the foundation of 
the monarchy in Israel. B. C. 1095. He was directing an assault against 
Jabesh-gilead, and upon the inhabitants asking him to make a treaty with 
them he dictated that cruel alternative of the loss of their right eyes or 
slavery, which roused the swift wrath of Saul, and caused the destruction 
of the Ammonite force. 1 Sam. xi, 1, 2-11. He is probably the same as 
Nahash, the father of Hanun, who had rendered David some special and 
valuable service, which David was anxious for an opportunity of requiting. 
2 Sam. x, 2. 

2. A person mentioned once only, (2 Sam. xvii, 25,) in stating the parent- 
age of Amasa, the commauder-in-chief of Absalom’s army. Amasa is there 
said to have been the son of a certain Ithra by Abigail, “ daughter of Na- 
hash and sister to Zeruiah.” By the genealogy of 1 Chron. ii, 16, it ap- 
pears that Zeruiah and Abigail were sisters of David and the other children 
of Jesse. The question then arises, How could Abigail have been at the 
same time daughter of Naliash and sister to the children of Jesse? To 
this three answers may be given : 1. The universal tradition of the rabbis, 


NAHATH— NAHUM. 


88 4 

that Nahash and Jesse were identical. 2. The explanation first put forth by 
Dr. Stanley, that Nahash was the king of the Ammonites, and that the 
same woman had first been his wife or concubine — in which capacity she 
had given birth to Abigail and Zeruiah — and afterward wife to Jesse, and 
the mother of his children. 3. A third possible explanation is, that Nahash 
was the name, not of Jesse, nor of a former husband of his wife, but of his 
wife herself. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

NA'HATH, (Heb. Nach'ath, nny rest, quiet . ) 

1. One of the “dukes,” or phylarchs, in the land of Edom, eldest son of 
Reuel, the son of Esau. Gen. xxxvi, 13, 17 ; 1 Chron. i, 37. B. C. about 
1740. 

2. A Kohathite Levite, son of Zophai. 1 Chron. vi, 26. B. C. about 1300. 
He is the same with Took (ver. 34) and Tohu, (1 Sam. i, 1,) and was an an- 
cestor of Samuel. 

3. A Levite in the reign of Hezekiah, and an overseer of the sacred of- 
ferings in the temple. 2 Chron. xxxi, 13. 

NAH'BI, (Heb. Nach'bi , •'SHJ, hidden ,) the son of Vophsi, a Naphtalite, 
and one of the twelve spies. Num. xiii, 14. B. C. 1490. 

NA'HOR, (Heb. Nachor "linj, snorting, snoring.) 

1. The son of Serug, father of Terah, and Abraham’s grandfather. Gen. 
xi, 22-24; Luke iii, 34. He lived 148 years. B. C. 2155-2006. 

2. Grandson of the preceding, a son of Terah and brother of Abraham. 
Gen. xi, 26 ; Josh, xxiv, 2. B. C. after 2056. He married Milcah, his 
brother Haran’s daughter, by whom he had eight children, (Gen. xi, 29,) 
and had as concubine Reumah, who bore him four children. Chap, xxii, 24. 
When Abraham and Lot migrated to Canaan Nahor remained in Haran, 
where his descendants were certainly living two generations later. Gen. 
xxviii, 10 ; xxix, 5. It was to the family descended from Nahor and Mil- 
cah that Abraham and Rebekah in turn had recourse for wives for their 
sons. 

NAH'SHON, (Heb. Nachshon enchanter ,) the son of Amminadab, 

and prince of Judah when first numbered in the desert. Exod. vi, 23 ; 
Num. i, 7 ; 1 Chron. ii, 10, 11. B. C. 1490. His sister Elisheba was wife 
to Aaron, (Exod. vi, 23,) and his son Salmon married Raliab after the tak- 
ing of Jericho. Matt, i, 5. In the encampment, (Num. ii, 3,) in the offering 
of the princes, (Num. vii, 12, 17,) and in the order of the march, (Num. 
x, 14,) the first place is assigned to him as captain of Judah’s host. We 
have no further particulars of his life, but we know that he died in the 
wilderness. Num. xxvi, 64, 65. His name occurs in Matt, i, 4; Luke iii, 32, 
in the genealogy of Christ, where his lineage is evidently copied from Ruth 
iv, 18-20; 1 Chron. ii, 10-12. 

NAHUM, (Heb. Nachum On nil, consolation ,) the seventh of the minor 

prophets. Of himself little is known except from the title of the book, 
“ The book of the vision of Nahum the E'koshite.” Chap, i, 1. The site of 
the’ village is disputed. “ According to Saint Jerome it was in Galilee, and 
only an insignificant ruins remained in his day. Toward the end of the 
sixteenth century the idea arose that Nahum was born at Alkosli, a town 


ttAOMI— NAPHlSS. 


885 


hear Mosul, where also a modern tomb is pointed out as the place of his 
burial.” — Smith, in Bible Educator , iv, 340. Prophecy. Of the place and 
time of writing his prophecy nothing is certainly known. “ In the Seder 
Olam Rabba he is made contemporary with Joel and Habakkuk in the reign 
of Manasseh. Syncellus places him with Hosea, Amos, and Jonah, in the 
reign of Joash, king of Israel, more than a century earlier ; while, according 
to Eutychius, he was contemporary with Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, 
and prophesied in the fifth year after the destruction of Jerusalem. Jose- 
phus mentions him as living in the latter part of the reign of Jotham. 
Carpzov concluded that Nahum prophesied in the beginning of the reign of 
Ahaz, about B. C. 742. Modern writers are divided in their suffrages. 
Bertholdt thinks it probable that the prophet escaped into Judah when the 
ten tribes were carried captive, and wrote in the reign of Hezekiah. Keil 
places him in the latter half of Hezekiah’s reign, after the invasion of Sen- 
nacherib. Ewald conceives that the siege of Nineveh by the Median king 
Phraortes (B. C. 630-625) may have suggested Nathan’s prophecy of its 
destruction.” — Smith, Dictionary , s. v. Dr. Strong ( Cyclopaedia , s. v.) thus 
sums up the discussion : “ Nahum was a native of Galilee ; that upon the 
invasion and deportation of the ten tribes he escaped into the territory of 
Judah, and probably took up his residence in Jerusalem, where he witnessed 
the siege of the city by Sennacherib, and the destruction of the Assyrian 
host in the reign of Hezekiah ; and that probably soon after that memorable 
event, which proved ‘ the beginning of the end ’ of the Assyrian power, 
and taking occasion from it, the spirit of prophecy chose him to be the in- 
strument of predicting the final and complete overthrow of Nineveh and 
her empire. . . . Nahum was a contemporary of Isaiah and Micah.” The 
subject of the prophecy is, iu accordance with the superscription, “ the bur- 
den of Nineveh,” and falls into three parts. The first contains the intro- 
duction (chap, i, 1-10) and the theme of the prophet’s oracle, (vers. 11-14;) 
the second sets forth the calamity which should befall the Assyrian empire, 
(chap, ii ;) and the third recapitulates the reasons for the judgments that 
should thus be inflicted and the certainty of their coming. 

NA'OMI, (Heb. Noomi, my pleasantness, delight ,) a woman of Beth- 
lehem, in the days of the Judges, whose history is interwoven with that 
of her daughter-in-law Ruth. Ruth i-iv. B. C. about 1322-1312. Her hus- 
band’s name was Elimelech, and her two sons were Mahlon and Chilion. 
With them, because of a famine in her own country, she went to Moab, 
where they died. Returning to her native land she was accompanied by 
Ruth, who became the wife of Boaz. Upon her return she replied to those 
asking her “ Is this Naomi ? ” “ Call me not Naomi, call me Mara : for the 
Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me.” 

NA'PHISH, (Heb. Naphish', recreated,) the eleventh son of Ish- 

mael. Gen. xxv, 15; 1 Cliron. i, 31. B. C. before 1773. “The tribe 
descended from Nodab was subdued by the Reubenites, the Gadites, 
and the half of the tribe of Manasseh, when ‘they made war with the 
Hagarites, with Jetur, and Nephish , and Nodab.’ 1 Chron. v, 19. The 
tribe is not again found in the sacred records, nor is it mentioned by 
later writers. It has not been identified with any Arabian tribe.” — Smith, 
Dictionary, s. v. 


NAPHTALI— NATHAN. 


£86 

NAPH'TALI. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Naphtali, 

wrestling.) The sixth son of Jacob, and the second of Billiah, Rachel’s 
maid, and own brother to Dan. 

2. Personal History. Of the personal history of Naphtali we know 
nothing, as up to the time of Jacob’s blessing the twelve patriarchs his 
name is only mentioned in the two public lists. Gen. xxxv, 25 ; xlvi, 24. 

3. The Tribe of Naphtali. (1) Numbers. When Israel went down 

into Egypt Naphtali had four sons. Gen. xlvi, 24; 1 Chron. vii, 13. While 
in Egypt Naphtali increased with wonderful rapidity, numbering at the first 
census 53,400, (Num. i, 43,) ranking as sixth. The number decreased dur- 
ing the wilderness journey ; for at the second census the adult males 
amounted to only 45,400, ranking eighth. Num. xxvi, 50. (2) Position. 

During the march through the wilderness Naphtali occupied a position on 
the north of the sacred tent with Dan and Asher. Num. ii, 25-31. (3) Ter- 

ritory. In the apportionment of the land the lot of Naphtali was not drawn 
till the last but one. Their portion lay at the northern angle of Palestine, 
and was inclosed on three sides by that of other tribes — Zebulun, (south,) 
Asher, (west,) trans-Jordanic Manasseh, (east.) (4) Subseqent History. 
Naphtali had its share in the incursions and molestations by the surround- 
ing heathen. One of these, apparently the severest struggle of all, fell with 
special violence on the north of the country, and the leader by whom the in- 
vasion was repelled — Barak of Kedesh-Naphtali — was the one great hero 
whom Naphtali is recorded to have produced. Judg. iv, 6. Naphtali was 
also the first tribe captured by the Assyrians under Tiglath-pileser. 2 Kings 
xv, 29. But though the history of the tribe ends here, yet, under the title 
of Galilee, the district which they formerly occupied became in every way 
far more important than it had ever been before. 

NARCIS'SUS, (Gr. N apiaoooc, a well-known flower,) a person at Rome 
to some of whose household (or friends) Paul sent salutation. Rom. xvi, 11. 
A. D. 60. He cannot be the celebrated favorite of the Emperor Claudius, 
as that person was put to death before the epistle was written. 

NA'THAN, (Heb. Nathan', |n3, given, of God.) 

1. A son of David ; one of the four who were born to him by Bathsheba. 
1 Chron. iii, 5 ; compare xiv, 4, and 2 Sam. v, 14. Nathan appears to have 
taken no part in the events of his father’s or his brother’s reigns. To 
him are to be referred, probably, the words of Zech. xii, 12. He appears 
as one of the forefathers of Joseph in the genealogy of St. Luke. Luke 
iii, 31. B. C. about 1032. 

2. The Hebrew prophet who lived in the reigns of David and Solomon. 
(1) First Appearance. The first mention of him is in a consultation with 
David, in which he advises him to build the temple, (2 Sara, vii, 2, 3 ;) but 
after a vision informed David that he was not to carry out his intention. 
Vers. 4-17. B. C. about 1042. (2) Reproves David. About a year after 
David’s sin Nathan appears to reprove him. The reason for this delay 
seems to be set forth by David in Psa. xxxii, where he describes the state 
of his heart during this period, and the sufferings he endured while trying 
to conceal his crime. To insure success Nathan resorted to a parable of a 
rich man taking from a poor man his “ little ewe lamb.” The parable was 
so selected that David could not suspect that it had reference to him and 


NATHANAEL. 


387 


his sin. With all the greater shock, therefore, did the prophet’s words 
“ Thou art the man,” come to the king. 2 Sam. xii. 1-15. B. C. about 1 234=! 
At the birth of Solomon. Nathan came to David, according to Jehovah's 
instructions, and named the child Jedidah, “because Jehovah loved him.” 
Vers. 24, 25. (3) Secures the Kingdom for Solomon. In the last years of 

David, Nathan, with Bathslieba, secured the succession of Solomon, (1 Kings 
i, 8-30,) and at the king’s request assisted at his inauguration. Vers. 32-38, 
45. B. C. about 1015. He assisted David by his advice when he re-or- 
ganized the public worship. 2 Chron. xxix, 25. B. C. 1014. His son 
Zabud succeeded him as the “ king’s friend,” and another sou, Azariah, 
was “over the offices” in Solomon’s time. 1 Kings iv, 5. He left two 
works behind him — a Life of David (1 Chron. xxix, 29) and a Life of 
Solomon. 2 Chron. ix, 29. The last of these may have been incomplete, 
as we cannot be sure that he outlived Solomon. His grave is shown at 
Halhul, near Hebron. 

3. An inhabitant of Zobah in Syria, and the father of Igal, one of David’s 
chieftains. 2 Sam. xxiii, 36. B. C. about 1040. In 1 Chron. xi, 38, it is 
given as Joel, the brother of Nathan. 

4. A descendant of Judah, being the son of Attai and father of Zabad. 
1 Chron. ii, 36. B. C. after 1471. 

5. One of the chief Jews who were sent by Ezra from his encampment 
at the river Ahava to the Jews’ colony at Casiphia, to obtain “ ministers for 
the house of God.” Ezra viii, 16, sq. B. C. about 457. He is perhaps the 
same as the Nathan who put away his Gentile wife. Chap, x, 39. 

NATHANAEL, (Gr. N a&avaf/X, for Heb. given of God,) a disci- 

ple of our Lord, of whose life we have no particulars save the references in 
John’s Gospel. It appears that after Jesus was proclaimed by John the 
Baptist to be the Lamb of God he was minded to go to Galilee. Having 
called Philip to follow him, the latter hastened to Nathanael to inform him 
that the Messiah had appeared. Nathanael expressed his distrust that 
any good thing could come from so small and inconsiderable a place as Naz- 
areth. He accompanied Philip, however, and upon his approach was saluted 
by Jesus as “an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile.” This elicited the 
inquiry from Nathanael as to how he had become known to Jesus. The 
answer, “ Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig-tree, 
I saw thee,” satisfied him that Jesus was more than man, and “Nathanael 
answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Sou of God; thou art 
the King of Israel.” John i, 45-49. B. C. 30, (25.) We meet with the 
name of Nathanael only once more, and then simply as one of a small com- 
pany of disciples at the Sea of Tiberias to whom Jesus showed himself after 
his resurrection. John xxi, 2. From this reference we learn that Nathan- 
ael was a native of Cana of Galilee. “ It is very commonly believed that 
Nathauael and Bartholomew are the same person. The evidence for that 
belief is as follows : John, who twice mentions Nathauael, never intro- 
duces the name of Bartholomew at all. Matthew, (x, 3,) Mark, (iii, 18.) 
and Luke (vi, 14,) all speak of Bartholomew, but never of Nathanael. It 
may be, however, that Nathanael was the proper name and Bartholomew 
(son of Tholmai) the surname of the same disciple, just as Simon was called 
Bar-joua, and Joses, Barnabas. It was Philip who first brought Nathanael 
to Jesus, just as Andrew had brought his brother Simon ; and BartljolQm^w 


388 


NATHAN-MELECH — NEBUCHADNEZZAR. 


is named by each of the first three evangelists immediately after Philip, 
while by Luke he is coupled with Philip precisely in the same way as 
Simon with his brother Andrew, and James with his brother John.” — 
Smith, Dictionary , s. v. 

NA'THAN-MEL'ECH, (Heb. Nethan'-Me'lek , Nathan of the 

king,) a chamberlain (that is, eunuch) from before whose chamber at the 
temple entrance King Josiah removed the horses dedicated to the sun by 
the king of Judah. 2 Kings xxiii, 11. B. C. 624. 

NA'UM, (Gr. N aovfi, for Heb. Nahum,) the son of Esli and father of 
Amos, in the maternal ancestry of Christ. Luke iii, 25. He is probably the 
same with Johanan, the son of Elioenai. 1 Chron. iii, 24. 

NEARFAH, (Heb. Nearyah', myj, servant of Jehovah.) 

1. One of the six sons of Shemaiah in the line of the royal family of 
Judah after the captivity. 1 Chron. iii, 22, 23. Some identify him with 
Nagge, (q. v.) 

2. A son of Ishi, and one of the captains of the 500 Simeonites who, in 
the days of Hezekiah, drove out the Amalekites from Mount Seir. 1 Chron. 
iv, 42. B. C. about 715. 

NE'BAI, (Heb. Neybay', "Qij, fruitful,) a family of the heads of the peo- 
ple who sigued the covenant with Nehemiah. Neh. x, 19. B. C. 445. 

NEBAFOTH, (Heb. Nebayoth', heights ,) the eldest son of Ish- 

mael, (Gen. xxv, 13 ; 1 Chron. i, 29. B. C. after 1892,) and father of a pas- 
toral tribe named after him. Isa. lx, 7 ; compare Gen. xvii, 20. 

NE'BAT, (Heb. Nebat ', sight, cultivation,') the father of Jeroboam, 

whose name is only preserved in connection with that of his distinguished 
son. 1 Kings xi, 26 ; xii, 2, 15, etc. He is described as an Ephrathite, or 
Ephraimite, of Zereda. B. C. about 1000. 

NEBUCHADNEZZAR, the great Babylonian king. 

1. Name and Family. The name in Heb. and Chald. is Nebukad - 
netstsar, *i2?Kjn3!QJ, but according to the native orthography is read Nabu - 

Kuduri-uisur, and is explained to mean “ Nebo is the protector against 
misfortune.” In Jeremiah and Ezekiel the name is given as Nebuchad- 
rez'zar. Nebuchadnezzar was the son and successor of Nabopolassar, the 
founder of the empire of Babylon. 

2. Personal History. Of the time of Nebuchadnezzar’s birth, or of the 
facts of his early life, we are without historical data. (1) Fights Egypt. 
When Pharaoh-Necho, king of Egypt, advanced to the banks of the Eu- 
phrates, Nabopolassar sent out Nebuchadnezzar against him, (B. C. 605,) who 
defeated the Egyptian at Carchemish, (Jer. xlvi, 2-12,) and recovered from 
him Coele-Syria, Phoenicia, and Palestine, took Jerusalem, (Dan. i, 1, 2,) 
and then hastened on to Egypt. (2) King. While engaged in that country, 
or upon its borders, he received the intelligence of his father’s death, and, 
hastening home, arrived there before any disturbance had arisen, and en- 
tered peaceably on his kingdom. B. C. 604. It was at this time that Dan- 
iel and his companions were taken captives and the sacred vessels of the 


NEBUCHADNEZZAR. 


389 


temple transferred by Nebuchadnezzar to Babylon. (Rawlinson, His. Ills, of 
Old Testament , p. 168.) (3) Wars against Jerusalem. Jehoiakim, although 
threatened with captivity, had been retained upon the throne as a Babylo- 
nian vassal. 2 Chron. xxxvi, 6. After three years he rebelled, and Nebu- 
chadnezzar, having invested Tyre, which was also in revolt, left a portion 
of his army to continue the siege, and marched against Jerusalem. The city 
surrendered without a struggle, and, according to Josephus, ( Ant ., x, 6, 3; 
compare Jer. xxii, 18, 19, and xxxvi, 30,) Nebuchadnezzar put Jehoiakim to 
death. His son, Jehoiachin, whom the Babylonian king had placed upon 
the throne, became disaffected after a reign of three months. Nebuchad- 
nezzar came up for the third time against Jerusalem, carried to Babylon the 
young king, his mother, wives, a large portion of the population, and most 
of the temple treasures, and made Zedekiah king. 2 Kings xxiv, 1-17 ; 
2 Chron. xxxvi, 5-10. B. C. 599. Owing to the defection of Zedekiah, 
Nebuchadnezzar commenced the final siege of Jerusalem in the seventeenth 
year of his reign, B. C. 588, and took it two years later. Zedekiah escaped 
from the city, but was captured near Jericho (Jer. xxxix, 5) and brought 
to Nebuchadnezzar at Riblah, in the territory of Hamath, where his eyes 
were put out by the king’s order, while his sons and his chief nobles were 
slain. Nebuchadnezzar then returned to Babylon with Zedekiah, whom he 
imprisoned for the remainder of his life ; leaving Nebuzar-adan, the captain 
of liis guard, to complete the destruction of the city and the pacification of 
Judea. Gedaliah, a Jew, was appointed governor, but he was shortly mur- 
dered, and the rest of the Jews either fled to Egypt or were carried 
by Nebuzar-adan to Babylon.- (4) Other Wars. “The military successes 
of Nebuchadnezzar cannot be traced minutely beyond this point. It may 
be gathered from the prophetical Scriptures and from Josephus that the con- 
quest of Jerusalem was rapidly followed by the fall of Tyre and the com- 
plete submission of Phoenicia, (Ezek. xxvi-xxviii; Josephus, c. Ap., i, 21;) 
after which the Babylonians carried their arms into Egypt, and inflicted 
severe injuries on that fertile country. Jer. xlvi, 13-26; Ezek. xxix, 2-20; 
Josephus, Ant, x, 9, § 7. But we have no account, on which we can de- 
pend, of these campaigns.” — Smith, Dictionary, s. v. (5) Internal Im- 
provements. “ We are told by Berosus that the first care of Nebuchad- 
nezzar, on obtaining quiet possession of his kingdom after the first Syrian 
expedition, was to rebuild the temple of Bel ( Bel-Merodach ) at Babylon out 
of the spoils of the Syrian war. (Josephus, Ant., x, 11, § 1.) He next 
proceeded to strengthen and beautify the city, which he renovated through- 
out and surrounded with several lines of fortication, himself adding one 
entirely new quarter. Having finished the walls and adorned the gates 
magnificently, he constructed a new palace. In the grounds of this palace 
he formed the celebrated ‘ hanging garden.’ This complete renovation of 
Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar, which Berosus asserts, is confirmed to us* in 
every possible way. But Nebuchadnezzar did not confine his efforts to the 
ornamentation and improvement of his capital. Throughout the empire, at 
Borsippa, Sippara, Cutha, Chilmad, Duraba, Teredon, and a multitude of other 
places, he built or re-built cities, repaired temples, constructed quays, res- 
ervoirs, canals, and aqueducts, on a scale of grandeur and magnificence 
surpassing every thing of the kind recorded in history, unless it be the 
constructions of one or two of the greatest Egyptian monarchs.” — Smith, 
Dictionary, s. v. Nebuchadnezzar must have possessed an enormous ocna- 


390 


N EBUCH ADNEZZAR. 


mand of human labor. Nine tenths of Babylon itself, and nineteen twen- 
tieths of all the other ruins that cover the land, are composed of bricks 
stamped with his name. (Rawlinson, His. Ills, of Old Testament.) (6) Pun- 
ishment. Toward the close of his reign Nebuchaduezzar was visited with 
a severe punishment for his vanity and pride. “ He was driven from man. 



and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, 
till his hairs were grown like eagles’ feathers , and his nails like birds’’ 
claws." Dan. iv, 33. The malady is known as “ Lycanthropy,” and its 
victim imagines himself a beast, walks on all fours, ceases to speak, and 


NEBUCHADREZZAR — NECHO. 


891 


rejects ordinary food. This malady is supposed to have lasted four (some 
say seven) years, (Dan. iv, 16,) during which time his queen, no doubt, ex- 
ercised authority. (7) Restoration, etc. At the end of the season his 
malady left him, his “ reason returned, and for the glory of his kingdom, 
liis honor and brightness returned.” Dan. iv, 34-37. He died, B. C. 561, 
at an advanced age, (83 or 84,) having reigned 43 years. He was suc- 
ceeded by his son, Evil-Merodach. 

3. Character. Nebuchadnezzar was a man of no mean military ability, 
but his greatness lay especially in the arts of peace. His moral character 
revealed an overweening pride, together with a violence and fury (Dan. ii, 
12 ; iii, 19) from which the greatest of eastern monarchs were usually free, 
together with a cold and relentless cruelty which was particularly revolt- 
ing ; witness the blinding of Zedekiah, and his being obliged to attenp 
the execution of his sons, (2 Kings xxv, 7 ;) also the detention of Jehoia- 
chin in prison for thirty-six years for an offense committed at the age of 
eighteen. 2 Kings xxiv, 8. See articles Daniel, Shadrach. 

NEBU CHADREZ'ZAR, (Heb. Nebuchadrets'tsar, a less 

usual but more correct form of Nebuchadnezzar, (q. v.) vs ” : 

NEBUSHAS'BAN, (Heb. Nebushazban votary of Nebo ,) one 

of the officers of Nebuchadnezzar at the time of the capture of Jerusalem, 
to whose care Jeremiah was committed. He was Rab-saris, that is, chief 
of the eunuchs, (Jer. xxxix, 13,) as Nebuzaradan was Rab-tabbachim, 
(chief of the body-guard,) and Nergal-sharezer, Rab-mag, (chief of the ma- 
gicians,) the three being the most important officers then present, probably 
the highest dignitaries of the Babylonian court. Nebu-shasban’s office and 
title were the same as those of Ashpenaz, (Dan. i, 3,) whom he probably 
succeeded. 

NEBUZAR'ADAN, (Heb. Nebuzaradan ', piOFQJ, meaning uncertain,) 

the Rab-tabbachim, that is, chief of the slaughterers, (Authorized Version, 
Jer. xxxix, 13, “captain of the guard,”) a high officer in the court of Neb- 
uchadnezzar, apparently the next to the person of the monarch. He appears 
not to have been present during the siege of Jerusalem ; probably he was 
occupied at the more important operations at Tyre, but as soon as the city 
was actually in the hands of the Babylonians he arrived, and from that 
moment every thing was completely directed by him. B. 0. 588. One act 
only is referred directly to Nebuchadnezzar, the appointment of the governor 
or superintendent of the conquered district. All this Nebuzaradan seems to 
have carried out with wisdom and moderation. He appears to have left 
Judea for this time when he took down the chief people of Jerusalem to 
his master at Riblah. 2 Kings xxv, 8-20. In four years he again ap- 
peared. Jer. Iii, 30. Nebuchadnezzar in his twenty-third year made a de- 
scent on the regions east of Jordan, including the Ammonites and Moabites, 
who escaped when Jerusalem was destroyed. Thence he proceeded to 
Egypt, and, either on the way thither or on the return, Nebuzaradan again 
passed through the country and carried off 745 more captives. Jer. Iii, 30. 
B. C. 562. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

NE'CHO, (Heb. Neko', pj,) 2 Chron. xxxv, 20, 22 ; xxxvi, 4. An ap- 
pellation applied to one of the Pharaohs, (q. v.) 

25 


392 


NEDABIAH — NEHEMIAH. 


NEDABFAH, (Heb. Nedabyah ' npu, whom Jehovah moves,) the last- 

Damed of the sons of Jeconiah. 1 Chron. iii, 18. B. C. after 599. 

NEHEMrAH, (Heb. Nechemyah', iTOTJ, whom Jehovah comforts.) 

1. The second-named of “the children of the province . . . whom Nebu- 
chadnezzar had carried away,” and who returned with Zerubbabel from 
Babylon. Ezra ii, 2 ; Neh. vii, 7. B. C. 536. 

2. The son of Azbuk, ruler of Beth-zur, in the mountains of Judah, and 
one who was prominent in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 16. 
B. C. 445. 

3. Governor of the Jews. 

1. Family. The genealogy of Nehemiah is unknown, except that he 
was the son of Hachaliah (Neh. i, 1) and brother of Hanani. Neh. vii, 2 ; 
compare i, 2. 

2. Personal History. All that we know certainly of Nehemiah is 
found in the book bearing his name. (1) Cup-bearer. He first appears at 
Shushan as cup-bearer to King Artaxerxes Longimanus. Neh. ii, 1. B. C. 
about 445. In that j r ear he was informed of the deplorable condition of 
his couutrymen in Judea, and determined to go to Jerusalem to endeavor 
to better their condition. (2) Appointed Governor. Three or four months 
later he presented his request to the king to be allowed to go and rebuild 
Jerusalem. His royal master granted his request, and appointed him 
Tirshatha , governor. Accompanied by a troop of cavalry and letters from 
the king to the different satraps through whose provinces he was to pass, 
as well as to Asaph, the keeper of the king’s forests, to supply him with 
timber, he started upon his journey, being under promise to return to Per- 
sia within a given time. (3) At Jerusalem. Nehemiah, without a mo- 
ment’s unnecessary delay, began the restoration of the city walls, which 
was accomplished in a wonderfully short time, namely, in fifty-two days. 
Neh. vi, 15. In this he was opposed by Sanballat and Tobiah, who not only 
poured out a torrent of abuse and contempt upon all engaged in the work, 
but actually made a conspiracy to fall upon the builders with an armed force 
and put a stop to the undertaking. The project was defeated by the vigi- 
lance and prudence of Nehemiah. This armed attitude was continued from 
that day forward. Chap. iv. He also reformed abuses, redressed grievances, 
(chap, v,) introduced law and order, (chap, vii,) and revived the worship of 
God. Chap, viii, sq. Various stratagems were then resorted to to get Ne- 
hemiah away from Jerusalem, and if possible to take his life. But that 
which most nearly succeeded was the attempt to bring him into suspicion 
with the king of Persia, as if he intended to set himself up as an independ- 
ent king as soon as the walls were completed. The artful letter of Sanballat 
so far wrought upon Artaxerxes that he issued a decree stopping the work 
till further orders. Chap. vi. In these reforms Nehemiah enjoyed the co- 
operation of Ezra, who had preceded him to Jerusalem, and who is named 
as taking a prominent part in public affairs. Neh. viii, 1, 9, 13 ; xii, 36. 
Nehemiah refused to receive his lawful allowance as governor during the 
whole term of his office because of the people’s poverty, but entertained for 
twelve years, at his own cost, 150 Jews, and welcomed any who returned 
from captivity. Chap, v, 14, 15. (4) Return to Jerusalem. Nehemiah, 
after twelve years’ service, returned to Babylon. Chap, xiii, 6. B. C. 434. 
It is not known how long he remained there, but “ after certain days ” he 


NEHUM — NEPHISHESIM. 


393 


obtained permission to again visit Jerusalem, where liis services were needed 
because of new abuses that had crept in. When he arrived Neliemiah 
enforced the separation of the mixed multitude from Israel, (chap, xiii, 1-3,) 
expelled Tobiah the Ammonite from the temple chamber, (vers. 4-9,) made 
better arrangements for the support of the temple service (vers. 10-14) and 
for the observance of the Sabbath. Vers. 15, 22. His last recorded act 
was an effort to put an end to mixed marriages, which led him to “ chase” 
away a son of Joiada, the high-priest, because he was son-in-law to San- 
ballat the Horonite. Yer. 23, sq. It is supposed (Kitto, Cyclopaedia, s. v.) 
that Neliemiah remained in Jerusalem till about B. C. 405, toward the close 
of the reign of Darius Nothus, mentioned in chap, xii, 22. The time and 
place of his death is unknown. To Nehemiah is credited the authorship of 
the book that bears his name. 

3. Character. Nehemiah’s character seems almost without a blemish. 
He was a man of pure and disinterested patriotism, willing to leave a posi- 
tion of wealth, power, and influence in the first court of the world and share 
the sorrows of his countrymen. He was not only noble, high-minded, and 
of strict integrity, but he was also possessed of great humility, kindness, 
and princely hospitality. In nothing was he more remarkable than in his 
piety, walking before his God with singleness of eye, seeking the divine 
blessing and co-operation in prayer, and returning thanks to him for all his 
successes. 

NE'HUM, (Heb. Nechum ', D^rD, perhaps consoled ,) one of those who re- 
turned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Nell, vii, 7. B. 0. about 445. 

NEHUSH'TA, (Heb. Nechushta', KnKTD, copper ,) the daughter of* Elna- 

than of Jerusalem, wife of Jehoiakim, and mother of Jehoiachiu, kings of 
Judah. 2 Kings xxiv, 8. B. C. about 616. 

NEKO'DA, (Heb. Nekoda ', jnipJ, distinguished.) 

1. One of the Nethinim whose descendants returned to Jerusalem after the 
captivity. Ezra ii, 48 ; Neh. vii, 50. B. C. 536. • 

2. The sons of Nekoda were among those who went up after the captiv- 
ity from Tel-melah, Tel-harsa, and other places, but were unable to prove 
their descent from Israel. Ezra ii, 60 ; Neh. vii, 62. 

NEMU'EL, (Heb. Nemuel ', spread of God ; or perhaps for Jem- 

uel, day of God.) 

1. The first-named son of Eliab, a Reubenite and brother of Dathan and 
Abiram. Num. xxvi, 9. B. C. about 1471. 

2. The eldest son of Simeon, (1 Chron. iv, 24,) from whom were descend- 
ed the family of the Nemuelites. Num. xxvi, 12. In Gen. xlvi, 10, he is 
called Jemuel, (q. v.) 

NE'PHEG, (Heb. same, JSD3, sprout .) 

1. One of the sons of Izhar, the son of Kohath. Exod. vi, 21. B. C. 149. 

2. One of David’s sons, born to him in Jerusalem. 2 Sam. v, 15 ; 1 Chron. 
iii, 7 ; xiv, 6. B. C. about 1020. 

NEFHISH'ESIM, (Heb. Nephishesim', D'D^DJ,) Neh. vii, 52, Ne- 

PHUSIM, (q. V.) 


394 


NEPHUSIM — NERIAH. 


NEPHU'SIM, (Heb. Nephusim', expansions ,) the head of a fam- 

ily of Nethinim who returned with Zerubbabel from Babylon. Ezra ii, 50. 
B. C. about 536. The parallel text (Neb. vii, 52) has Nephishesim. 

NER, (Heb. same, *0, light,) a Benjamite, father of Kish and Abner, 

and grandfather of King Saul. 1 Cliron. viii, 33. B. C. about 1 140. The 
statement in 1 Cliron. ix, 36, that Kish and Ner were both sons of Jehiel, is 
explained by the supposition of an elder Kish, uncle of Saul’s father, or, 
rather, Ner’s grandfather. (Strong, Cyclopaedia , s. v.) 

NE'REUS, (G-r. N vpevc,) a Christian at Rome saluted, with his sister, by 
the apostle Paul. Rom. xvi, 15. A. D. 60, (55.) A legendary account of 
him is given in Acta Sanctorum , from which may be gathered the tradition 
that he was beheaded at Terracina, probably in the reign of Nerva. His 
ashes are said to be deposited in the ancient church of SS. Nereo ed Archil- 
leo at Rome. 

NER'GAL-SHARE'ZER, (Heb. Nergal'-Sharets'er, from 

the god Ner gal and Sharezer, probably prince of fire.) 

1. A prince, probably military, under Nebuchadnezzar. Jer. xxxix, 3. 
B. C. 588. 

2. Another is mentioned as one of those who, by the command of Neb- 
uchadnezzar, released Jeremiah from prison, (Jer. xxxix, 13,) where there is 
assigned to him the honorable distinction of “ Rab-mag.” “ Profane history 
gives us reason to believe that he was a personage of great importance, 
who not long afterward mounted the Babylonian throne. This identifica- 
tion depends in part upon the exact resemblance of name, which is found 
on Babylonian bricks in the form of Nergal-shar-uzur ; but mainly it rests 
upon the title of Rubu-emga, or Rab-mag, which this king bears in his in- 
scriptions. Assuming on these grounds the identity of the scriptural 
‘ Nergal- sharezer, Rab-mag, with the monumental ‘ Nergal-shar-uzur , Rubu- 
emga ,’ we may learn something of the history of the prince in question 
from profane authors. There cannot be a doubt that he was the monarch 
called Neriglissar or Neriglissoor by Berosus, (Josephus, c. Ap., i, 20,) who 
murdered Evil-Merodach, the son of Nebuchadnezzar, and succeeded him 
upon the throne. This prince was married to a daughter of Nebuchadnez- 
zar, and was thus the brother-in-law of his predecessor, whom he put to 
death. His reign lasted between three and four years. He appears to have 
died a natural death, and certainly left his crown to a young son, Laboroso- 
archod, who was murdered after a reign of nine months. There is abun- 
dant reason to believe from his name and his office that he was a native 
Babylonian — a grandee of high rank under Nebuchadnezzar, who regarded 
him as a fitting match for one of his daughters. His reign preceded that 
of the Median Darius by seventeen years. It lasted from B. C. 559 to B. 0. 
556.” — Smith, Dictionary , s. v. 

NE'RI, (G-r. Nr/p/,) the son of Melchi, and father of Salathiel, in the 
genealogy of Christ. Luke iii, 27. 

NERI'AH, (Heb. Neriyah', rp"0, lamp of Jehovah,) the son of Maaseiah 

and father of Baruch, the amanuensis of Jeremiah. Jer. xxxii, 12, 16 ; xxxvi 
4, 8, 14, 32 ; xliii, 3, 6 ; xlv, 1 ; li, 59. He is probably the same with the 
preceding. 


tfETHANEEL — NICODEMtTS. 


395 


NETHAN'EEL, (Heb. NethaneV, given of God.) 

1. The son of Zuar, and chief of the tribe of Issachar at the exodus. 
Num. i, 8 ; ii, 5 ; vii, 18, 23 ; x, 15. B. C. 1490. 

2. The fourth son of Jesse, David’s father. 1 Chron. ii, 14. B. C. about 
1070. 

3. One of the priests who “ blew the trumpets before the ark ” when it 
was brought from the house of Obed-edom. 1 Chron. xv, 24. B. C. about 
1042. 

4. A Levite, and father of the scribe Shemaiah. 1 Chron. xxiv, 6. B. C. 
before 1015. 

5. The fifth son of Obed-edom, and one of the porters of the temple ap- 
pointed by David. 1 Chron. xxvi, 4. B. C. 1014. 

6. One of the princes commissioned by King Jehoshapbat to teach in the 
cities of Judah. 2 Chron. xvii, 7. B. C. 912. 

7. One of the chief Levites who made offerings when the observance of 
the passover was renewed by King Josiah. 2 Chron. xxxv, 9. B. C. about 
623. 

8. A priest of the family of Pashur in the time of Ezra who had married 
a foreign wife. Ezra x, 22. B. C. 456. 

9. The representative of the priestly family of Jedaiah in the time of 
Joiakim, the son of Jeshua. Neli. xii, 21. B. C. before 445. 

1 0. A Levite, of the sons of Asaph, who took part in the dedication of 
the wall of Jerusalem. Neh. xii, 36. 

NETHANI'AH, (Heb. Nethanyah', JTJnp, given of Jehovah.) 

1. The son of Elishama and father of Ishmael, who murdered Gedaliah. 
2 Kings xxv, 23, 25 ; Jer. xl, 8, 14, 15 ; xii, 1, 2, 6, 7, 9-12, 15, 16, 18. He 
was of the royal family of Judah. B. C. about 620. 

2. One of the four sons of Asaph the minstrel. 1 Chron. xxv, 2. He 
was chief of the fifth division of the temple musicians. Ver. 12. B. C. 
about 1015. 

3. One of the Levites appointed by Jehoshaphat to accompany the 
“princes” who were to teach the law in the cities of Judah. 2 Chron. 
xvii, 8. B. C. 912. 

4. The father of Jehudi, which latter was sent by the princes to request 
Baruch to read the roll to them. Jer. xxxvi, 14. B. C. about 606. 

NEZI'AH, (Heb. Netsi'ach , rVVJ, illustrious ,) one of the Nethinim whose 

descendants accompanied Zerubbabel from Babylon. Ezra ii, 54; Neh. 
vii, 56. B. C. about 536. 

NICA'NOR, (Gr. N mdvup, victor ,) one of the deacons appointed by the 
church at Jerusalem. Acts vi, 5. A. D. 33, (29.) 

NICODE'MUS, (Gr. N Luodryio^ victor of the people.) 1. Family. His 
family is unknown, though some recognize him as Nicodemus Ben Gorion, 
the brother of Josephus the historian. This Nicodemus was a member of 
the Sanhedrin, and counted one of the three richest men of Jerusalem. 
But it was said that he afterward became poor; and. his daughter was 
seen gathering barleycorns for food from under the horses’ feet. Some 
have conjectured that this was the result of the persecutions he received 
for having embraced Christianity. (Whedon’s Commentary , John iii, 1.) 


896 Nicolas — nimrod. 

2. Personal History. (1) Interview with Jesus. Nicodemus was a 

Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin. Being convinced by his miracles 
that Jesus was a “ teacher come from God,” he sought an interview with 
him ; but fear of the Jews and a regard for his reputation, no doubt, influ- 
enced him to make the visit by night. He opened the conversation by an 
announcement of his belief in Christ’s divine mission, and was answered by 
a declaration of the wonderful doctrine of the new birth. John iii, 1-10. 
Jesus also maintained that this doctrine of regeneration should be accepted 
upon his own divine authority, (vers. 10-13,) and insisted upon the doctrine 
of responsibility for unbelief, (vers. 18-21,) and “seems to have closed the 
interview with an admonition that a good conscience is the basis of true 
courage.” (Whedon, Commentary , in loco.) (2) Defends Jesus. When, 
upon a later occasion, the officers sent to apprehend Christ returned without 
him, and were reproached by the rest of the Sanhedrin, Nicodemus said to 
them, “ Doth our law judge any man before it hear him. and know wdiat he 
doeth?” His timid word is answered by taunts, “Art thou also of Gali- 
lee ? ” and the old ignorant dogmatism, “ Search and look : for out of Galilee 
ariseth no prophet.” John vii, 4S-52. (3) At Christ’s Burial. Perhaps 

encouraged by the example of Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus assisted at 
the burial of Jesus. He brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a 
hundred pounds’ weight, to anoint the body, and assisted in its embalming 
and burial. John xix, 39-42. Nothing further is known of Nicodemus 
from Scripture. Tradition adds that after he had thus publicly declared 
himself a follower of Jesus, and had been baptized by Peter, he was dis- 
placed from his office and expelled from Jerusalem. 

3. Character. “ A constitutional timidity is observable in all that the 
Gospel tells us about Nicodemus; a timidity which could not be wholly 
overcome even by his honest desire to befriend and acknowledge one whom 
he knew to be a prophet, even if he did not at once recognize in him the 
promised Messiah.” — Farrar’s Life of Christ , p. 92. There was also joined 
to this timidity too strong an appreciation of the world’s good opinion. 

NICHOLAS, (Gr. N ucohaiog, conqueror of the people,) a native of Antioch 
who had become a proselyte to the Jewish faith. He was afterward con- 
verted to Christianity, and was elected one of the first seven deacons. Acts 
vi, 5. A. D. 33, (29.) By some it has been believed that the sect of the 
Nicolaitans was founded by this Nicolas, but of this there is ho positive 
evidence. 

NFGER, (Gr. N cyep, from Lat. black,) of Antioch. Acts xiii, 1. See 
Simeon, 5. 

NIM'ROD, (Heb. Nimrod ', perhaps from Persian Nabard, that is, 

Lord; or if from the Shemitic, Let us rebel,) a son of Cush and grandson of 
Ham. Gen. x, 8, sq. B. C. about 2218. “ The name itself, Nimrod , from 

TVO, ‘ we will revolt,’ points to some violent resistance to God. ... If the 

expression, ‘ a mighty hunter,’ relates primarily to hunting in the literal 
sense, we must add to the literal meaning the figurative signification of a 
4 hunter of men.’ Nimrod the hunter became a tyrant, a powerful hunter 
of men. This course of life gave occasion to the proverb, ‘ Like Nimrod, a 
mighty hunter against the Lord, . . . which can only mean 4 in defiance of 
JehoVah.’ ” — Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary , in. loco. “ The chief events 


NIMSHI— NOAH. 397 

in the life of Nimrod, then, are (1) that he was a Cushite ; (2) that he es- 
tablished an empire in Shinar, (the classical Babylonia,) the chief towns 
being Babel, Erech, Accad, and Calneh ; and (3) that he extended this em- 
pire northward along the course of the Tigris oyer Assyria, where he 
founded a second group of capitals, Nineveh, Rehoboth, Calah, and Resen. 
These events correspond to and may be held to represent the salient histor- 
ical facts connected with the earliest stages of the great Babylonian empire. 
The existence of Nineveh itself can be traced up by the aid of Egyptian 
monuments to about the middle of the fifteenth century B. C. Our present 
information does not permit us to identify Nimrod with any personage 
known to us either from inscriptions or from classical writers.” — Smith, Dic- 
tionary , s. v. 

NIM'SHI, (Heb. Nimshi ', saved,) the grandfather of Jehu, (2 Kings 

ix, 2, 14,) but also briefly called his father. 2 Kings ix, 20 ; 2 Chron. xxii, 7. 
B. C. about 950. 

NOADI'AH, (Heb. Noadyah', myfa, whom Jehovah meets.) 

1. One of the Levites who, with Meremoth, Eleazar, and others, weighed 
the silver, gold, and vessels of the temple brought back from Babylon. 
Ezra viii, 33. B. C. about 457. 

2. A professed prophetess, who seems to have joined Tobiah and Sanbal- 
lat in opposition to Nehemiah. Neh. vi, 14. B. 0. about 445. 

NO' AH, (Heb. No'dch, fli, or nij, rest , quiet.) 

1. The son of Lamech, and tenth in descent from Adam. Gen. v, 28, 29. 
B. C. 2948. 

1. Personal History. Beyond the record of his birth the Scriptures tell 
us nothing of Noah till he was 500 years old, when it mentions his three 
sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth. Gen. v, 32 ; vi, 10. B. C. 2448. (1) As 

Preacher. The wickedness of the human race had for a long time pro- 
voked the wrath of God. The cause of their unrighteousness was the in- 
termarriage of the “sons of God ” (Seth ites) and the “daughters of men,” 
(Cainites.) Jehovah resolved to destroy the human race, but allowed a re- 
spite of 120 years, during which Noah sought to bring them to repentance. 
Chap, vi, 1-9 ; 1 Pet. iii, 20 ; 2 Pet. ii, 5. Thus he was “ a preacher of 
righteousness,” exercising faith in the testimony of God, and condemning 
the world by the contrasted excellence of his conduct. (2) In the Ark. 
At length the cup of man’s iniquity was full, and the time of their destruc- 
tion near at hand. Noah, because of his righteousness, was exempted 
from extermination, and was saved by means of the ark, constructed accord- 
ing to divine direction. Chap, vi, 14-22. He entered the ark when he was 
600 years old, and the flood commenced on the seventeenth day of the sec- 
ond month, (chap, vii, 6, 11,) kept rising for forty days, (vers. 12, 15,) and 
only began to abate after 150 days. Chap, viii, 3. On the seventeenth day 
of the seventh month the ark rested on Ararat, and after forty days Noah 
sent forth a raven, and at intervals of seven days (or a week) a dove. Fi- 
nally, on the first day of the first month of his 601st year, Noah removed 
the covering of the ark ; and on the twenty-seventh day of the following 
month he returned again to dry land. Chap, viii, 4-19. B. C. 2348. 
(3) Noah’s Sacrifice. The first thing that Noah did after leaving the ark 


898 


NOAH. 


was to build an altar and to offer sacrifice. He took his offerings from 
every clean beast and every clean fowl, such animals as were destined for 
man’s food. God accepted the sacrifice, and promised no more to waste the 
earth with a plague of waters, but to continue without interruption the reg- 
ular alternations of day and night, and of the seasons of the year. Chap, 
viii, 20-22. Jehovah blessed Noah and his sons, and pronounced his supe- 
riority over the inferior creation. All living creatures are given to man for 
food, with the prohibition against eating the blood. Provision is made for 
the security of human life against animals as well as men. To give Noah 
and his sons a firm assurance of the prosperous continuance of the human 



TOMB OP NOAH. 


race, God established a covenant with them, and gave them as a sign the 
bow m the cloud.” Chap, ix, 1-17. (4) Intoxication. After this Noah 
entered upon agricultural pursuits, and began to cultivate the vine Whether 
in ignorance of its properties or not we do not know, but Noah drank of 
wme until intoxicated, and shamefully exposed himself in his tent Ham 
saw the nakedness of his father, and told his brothers without who rev- 
erently covered their father with a garment, walking backward that they 
might not see his nakedness. For this they received their father’s blessing 

20 rS. e l It 80 “ panaan the patriarch’s curse. Chap, ix, 
20 27. (5) Conclusion. After this we hear no more of the patriarch, 


NOB AH — NUN. 


m 


but the sum of his years : “ And Noah lived after the flood three hundred 
and fifty years. And all the days of Noah were nine hundred and fifty 
years : and he died.” Gen. ix, 28, 29. B. C. 1998. 

2. Character. The character of Noah is given in the few words de- 
scriptive of him in Gen. vi, 9 : “ Noah was a just man and perfect in his 
generations, and Noah walked with God.” That is, he was righteous in his 
moral relations to God ; blameless in his character and conduct. His right- 
eousness and integrity were manifested in his walking with God. 

Difficulties.— The Ark. Of the shape of the ark nothing is said ; but its di- 
mensions are given. It was to be 300 cubits in length, 50 in breadth, and 30 in height. 
Taking 21 inches for the cubit, the ark would be 525 feet in length, 87 feet G 
inches in breadth, and 52 feet 6 inches in height. This is very considerably larger 
than the largest British man-of-war. It should be remembered that this huge 
structure was only intended to float on the water, and was not in the proper sense 
of the word a ship. It had neither mast, sail, nor rudder: it was in fact nothing 
but an enormous floating house, or oblong box rather. Two objects only were 
aimed at in its construction : the one was that it should have ample stowage, and 
the other that it should be able to keep steady upon the water. It was built with 
three distinct stories, and had a door in the side. The window seems to have been 
an opening, a cubit wide, running the entire length of the building, but whether 
on the top or side cannot be determined. The* Flood. The much-discussed ques- 
tion as to the extent of the flood cannot receive more than a passing notice, as it 
is not essential to the plan of this book. Of all the many opinions advanced per- 
haps none is liable to fewer objections than that of Bishop Stillingfleet. He ex- 
pressed his belief that the flood was universal as to mankind, and that all men ex- 
cept those preserved in the ark were destroyed ; but he sees no evidence from 
Scripture that the whole earth was then inhabited. He argues that the reason for 
preserving living creatures in the ark was that there might be a stock of domesti- 
cated animals that should be immediately serviceable for man after the flood. 

2. (Heb. Noah', nyj, motion ,) one of the five daughters of Zelophehad, 

of the tribe of Manasseh. Num. xxvi, 33. B. C. 1452. As their father had 
died leaving no son, the daughters applied for an inheritance in the promised 
land in their father’s right. Moses, under divine direction, granted their 
request, (Num. xxvii, 1, sq.,) and this promise was redeemed by Joshua. 
Josh, xvii, 3. 

NO'BAH, (Heb. No'bach , fDj, barking ,) an Israelite, whose family is not 

named, but who probably belonged, like Jair, to one of the families of 
Machirites of the tribe of Manasseh. He took the town of Kenath and its 
villages, (Heb. “daughters,”) and gave it his own name, Nobah. Num. 
xxxii, 42. B. C. about 1452. 

NO'E, (Gr. Nwe,) the Grecized form (Matt, xxiv, 37, 38; Luke iii, 36; 
xvii, 26, 27) of Noah, (q. v.) 

NO'GAH, (Heb. same, fljj, « shining ,) one of the sons of David who 

were born to him in Jerusalem by other wives than Bathsheba. 1 Chron. 
iii, 7 ; xiv, 6. B. C. about 1040. 

NO'HAH, (Heb. Nochah ', nrrij, rest,) the fourth-named of the sons of 

Benjamin, and the head of a family. 1 Chron. viii, 2. 

NON, (Heb. same, Jij,) once (1 Chron. vii, 27) for }!|J, Nun, the father of 
Joshua. 

NUN, (Heb. same, ji|J, a fish , because of its prolificness,) an Ephraimite, 
and father of Joshua. Exod. xxxiii, 11; Num. xi, 28; xiii, 8, 16; xiv, 6, 


400 


NYMPHAS-— OBADlAtt. 


30, 38 ; xxvi, 65 ; xxvii, 18 ; xxxii, 12, 28, etc. B. C. before 1491. There 
is no account given of his life. 

NYMTHAS, (G-r. N vfitpdc,) a prominent Christian in Laodicea, whose 
house was used as a place of worship. Col. iv, 15. A. D. 64, (57.) 

OBADFAH, (Heb. Obadyah ITHiy, servant of Jehovah ; lengthened form, 
Obadya'hu, }rVH5$h) 

1. An officer of high rank in the court of Ahab, who is described as 
“ over the house,'” that is, apparently, lord high chamberlain, or mayor of 
the palace. 1 Kings xviii, 3. B. C. about 906. Notwithstanding his posi- 
tion he “feared the Lord greatly;” and, during the persecution of the 
prophets by Jezebel, he concealed 100 of them in a cave, supplying them 
with food. In the third year of the terrible famine that visited Samaria 
Ahab and Obadiah divided the land between them to search for pasture. 
While on his journey he unexpectedly met Elijah, who commanded him to 
tell the king of the prophet’s appearance. Obadiah hesitated, fearing 
death at Ahab’s hands, but when Elijah insisted he had no choice but to obey. 
Chap, xviii, 5-16. 

2. A man referred to in 1 Chron. iii, 21, in an obscure manner. Keil 
( Commentary , in loco) and Smith ( Dictionary , s. v.) think the passage clearly 
corrupt. Dr. Strong (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia , s. v.) considers 
that Obadiah was a son of Arnan, as the Septuagint and Vulgate have it, 
reading “ his son ” instead of “ sons of ; ” and identifies him with Judah (Luke 
iii, 26) and Abiud (Matt, i, 13) of Christ’s genealogy. 

3. According to the received text, one of the five sons of Izrahiah, a de- 
scendant of Issachar and a chief man of his tribe. 1 Chron. vii, 3. It is 
uncertain when he lived. 

4. One of the six sons of Azel, a descendant of Saul. 1 Chron. viii, 38 ; 

ix, 44. B. C. about 720. 

5. A Levite, son of Shemaiah, who dwelt in one of the villages of the 
Netophathites near Jerusalem. 1 Chron. ix, 16. He is named as one of the 
temple porters. Neh. xii, 25. B. C. about 445. 

6. The second-named of the eleven Gadite warriors of renown who 
joined David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 9. B. C. about 1058. 

7. The father of Ishmaiah, who was chief of the tribe of Zebulun in Da- 
vid’s reign. 1 Chron. xxvii, 19. B. C. before 1015. 

8. One of the princes whom Jehoshaphat employed to teach in the cities 
of Judah. 2 Chron. xvii, 7. B. C. 912. 

9. A Levite of the family of Merari who was one of the overseers of 
temple repairs ordered by King Josiah. 2 Chron. xxxiv, 12. B. C. 630. 

10. The son of Jehiel, of the sons of Joab, who came up with a com- 
pany of 218 male kinsmen in the second caravan with Ezra. Ezra viii, 9. 
B. C. about 457. 

11. One of the priests who signed the covenant with Nehemiah. Neh. 

x, 5. B. C. 445. 

12. The prophet. As to the person and circumstances of Obadiah noth- 
ing certain is known ; and the traditional accounts of him in the rabbins 
and fathers, some of whom identify him with Ahab’s pious commander, 
others with the third captain sent by Ahaziah against Elisha, (2 Kings 


OBAL— OCRAN, 


401 


i, 13,) are quite worthless and evidently false. The prophecy of Obadiah 
commences with the proclamation of the destruction with which the Lord 
has determined to visit the Edomites, (vers. 1-9,) and then depicts, as the 
cause of the divine judgment which will thus suddenly burst upon the 
haughty people, the evil which it did to Jacob when Judah and Jerusalem 
had been taken by heathen nations, (vers. 10-14;) for this the Edomites 
and all nations will receive retribution even to their utter destruction, (vers. 
15, 16;) then follows a declaration of the victories of Jacob. Vers. 17-21. 
He wrote probably B. C. between 588 and 583. 

O'BAL, (Heb. Obal', perhaps bare,) a son of Joktau, and founder 

of an Arabian tribe. Gen. x, 28. B. 0. after 2217. The locality (called 
Ebal in 1 Chron. i, 22) where they settled is unknown. 

O'BED, (Heb. Obed', HQiy, serving , that is, Jehovah.) 

1 . The son of Boaz and Ruth, and father of Jesse, the father of David. 
Ruth iv, 17 ; 1 Cliron. ii, 12. B. C. about 1312. The name of Obed occurs 
only Ruth iv, 17, and in the four genealogies, Ruth iv, 21, 22 ; 1 Chron. 

ii, 12; Matt, i, 5; Luke iii, 32. 

2. A descendant of Jarlia, the Egyptian slave of Sheshan in the line of 
Jerahmeel. He was grandson of Zabad, one of David’s mighty men. 
1 Cliron. ii, 37, 38. B. C. after 1015. 

3. One of David’s mighty men. 1 Chron. xi, 47. B. C. 1 047. 

4. One of the gate-keepers of the temple, son of Shemaiah, the first-born 
of Obed-edom. 1 Cliron. xxvi, 7. B. C. about 1015. 

5. Father of Azariah, one of the captains of hundreds who joined with 
Jehoiada in the revolution by which Athaliah fell. 2 Chron. xxiii, 1. B. C. 878. 

O'BED-E'DOM, (Heb. Obed'-edom', Di"!N"“Qy, servant of Edom.) 

1. A Levite of the family of Korhites, and belonging to the class of door- 
keepers. 1 Chron. xv, 18, 24. He is called a Gittite or Gathite from his 
birthplace, the Levitical city of Gath-rimmon in the tribe of Dan. After the 
death of Uzzah the ark, which was being conducted from the house of 
Abinadab in Gibeah to the city of David, was carried aside into the house 
of Obed-edom, where it continued three months, during which time Obed- 
edom was greatly prospered. 1 Chron. xiii, 14. It was brought thence by 
David. 1 Chron. xv, 25 ; 2 Sam. vi, 12. B. C. 1042. It is Obed-edom the 
Gittite who was appointed to sound “with harps on the Sheminith.” 
1 Chron. xv, 21 ; xvi, 5, 38. He is probably the same mentioned in 1 Chron. 
xxvi, 4-8. 

2. The son of Jeduthun, and one of the temple door-keepers. 1 Chron. 
xvi, 38, second clause. B. C. about 1042. 

3. A person who had charge of the vessels of the sanctuary in the time 
of Amaziah, king of Judah. 2 Chron. xxv, 24. B. C. 826. 

O'BIL, (Heb. Obil', chief, that is, overseer, of camels ,) an Ismaelite 

who was appointed keeper of the herds of camels in the reign of David. 
1 Chron. xxvii, 30. B. C. about 1015. 

OC'RAN, (Heb. Okran', ppy, afflicted,) the father of Pagiel, “the 

prince ” of Asher, and who assisted Moses in the numbering of the people. 
Num. i, 13 ; ii, 27 ; vii, 72, 77 ; x, 26. B. C. 1490. 


402 


ODED— OMRI 


O'DED, (Heb. Odcd', Yiiy, erecting.) 

1. The father of Azariah the prophet, who met Asa on his return from 
defeating the Ethiopians, and exhorted him to continued faithfulness. 2 Chron. 
xv, 1. B. C. before 941. The address is, in ver. 8, ascribed to Oded, prob- 
ably through a mistake of the copyists. 

2. A prophet of the Lord in Samaria in the time of Pekah’s invasion of 
Judah. B. C. about 741. He met the victorious army returning with their 
booty and prisoners, 200,000 ; and pointed out to them their cruelty and 
guilt, exhorting them to turn away the anger of God by sending back their 
prisoners. 2 Chron. xxviii, 9. His speech made a deep impression, and, 
according to advice of some chiefs of Ephraim, the captives were fed, 
clothed, anointed, and returned to Jericho. 

OG, (Heb. same, Jiy, long-necked ,) an Amorite, king of Bashan, (Num. 
xxi, 33 ; xxxii, 33 ; Deut. iv, 47 ; xxxi, 4,) who ruled over sixty cities, (Josh, 
xiii, 30,) the chief of which were Ashtaroth and Edrei (ver. 12) in the time 
of the occupation of Canaan. B. C. 1452. He was defeated by the Israel- 
ites at Edrei, and, with his children and people, were exterminated. Num. 
xxi, 33 ; Deut. i, 4 ; iii, 1-13 ; xxix, 7 ; Josh, ii, 10. His many-walled cities 
were taken, (Deut. iii, 4-10,) and his kingdom assigned to the trans-Jordanic 
tribes, especially the half -tribe of Manasseh. Yer. 13; Josh, ix, 10; xiii, 
12, 30. He was a man of giant stature, and Moses speaks of his iron bed- 
stead, nine cubits long by four broad, which was preserved as a memorial 
in Rabbath. Deut. iii, 11. He was one of the last representatives of the 
giant race of Rephaim. 

O'HAD, (Heb. same, power ,) the third-named of the sons of Sim- 

eon, (Gen. xlvi, 10,) and head of a family in Israel. Exod. vi, 15. B. C. 
about 1706. 

O'HEL, (Heb. same, J>rm, tent,) one of the children of Zerubbabel. 
1 Chron. iii, 20. B. C. after 600. 

O'MAR, (Heb. Omar\ eloquent ,) son of Eliphaz, the first-born of 

Esau, and “duke” or phylarch of Edom. Gen. xxxvi, 11, 15; 1 Chron. 
i, 36. The name is supposed to survive in that of the tribe of Amir Arabs 
east of the Jordan. B. C. perhaps about 1740. 

OM'RI, (Heb. Omri ', 'HDy, taught of Jehovah.) 

1. The seventh king of Israel, originally commander of the armies of 
Elah, king of Israel, and engaged in the siege of Gibbethon when informed 
of the king’s death and the usurpation of Zimri. Proclaimed king by his 
army, Omri left Gibbethon and besieged Zimri in Tirzah, who in despair 
burned himself in his palace. 1 Kings xvi, 16. B. C. 929. Another com- 
petitor appeared in the person of Tibni, the son of Ginath. After a civil 
war of four years Omri was left undisputed master of the throne. Yers. 
21, 22. B. C. 925. Having resided six years in Tirzah, he removed to the 
mountain Shomron, (Samaria,) which he bought from Shemer for two tal- 
ents of silver. He seems to have been a vigorous and unscrupulous ruler, 
anxious to strengthen his dynasty by intercourse and alliances with foreign 
states. He made a treaty with Benhadad I., of Damascus, surrendering to 
him some foreign cities, (1 Kings xx, 34,) among them, probably, Ramoth- 


ON — ON ESI M US. 


403 


gilead, (chap, xxii, 3,) and admitted into Samaria a resident Syrian embassy, 
which is described by the expression “ he made streets in Samaria ” for 
Benhadad. He united his son in marriage to the daughter of a principal 
Phenician prince, which led to the introduction into Israel of Baal worship. 
Of Omri it is said : “ Omri wrought evil in the eyes of the Lord, and did 
worse than all that were before him. For he walked in all the way of Jer- 
oboam the son of Nebat, and in his sin wherewith he made Israel to sin, to 
provoke the Lord God of Israel to anger with their vanities.” Chap, xx, 25, 26. 
This worldly and irreligious policy is denounced by Micah (chap, vi, 16) 
under the name of the “statutes of Omri.” He died B. C. 918, and was 
succeeded by his son Ahab. 

2. One of the sons of Becher, the son of Benjamin. 1 Chron. vii, 8. 
B. C. after 1106. 

3. A descendant of Pharez, the son of Judah. 1 Chron. ix, 4. B. C. after 
1106. 

4. Son of Michael, and chief of the tribe of Issachar iu the reign of David. 
1 Giron, xxvii, 18. B. 0. about 1011. 

ON, (Heb. same, |ix, strength ,) the son of Peleth, and one of the chiefs 
of the tribe of Reuben who took part with Korah, Dathan, and Abiram in 
their revolt against Moses. Num. xvi, 1. His name does not again appear 
in the narrative of the conspiracy, nor is he alluded to when reference is 
made to the final catastrophe. There is a rabbinical tradition to the effect 
that he was prevailed upon by his wife to withdraw from his accomplices. 
(Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

O'NAM, (Heb. Onam ', strong .) 

1. One of the children of Shobal, the son of Seir the Horite. Gen. 
xxxvi, 23 ; 1 Chron. i, 40. B. C. about 1840. 

2. The son of Jerahmeel, of the tribe of Judah, by his wife Atarah. 
1 Chron. ii, 26. He was the father of Shammai and Jada. Ver. 28. B. C. 
about 1411. 

O'NAN, (Heb. Onan\ pitf, perhaps strong ,) the second son of Judah by 

the daughter of Shuah the Canaanite. Gen. xxxviii, 4 ; xlvi, 12 ; Num. 
xxvi, 19 ; 1 Chron. ii, 3. B. C. about 1129. When his brother Ger was put to 
death by Jehovah on account of his wickedness, Onan refused, in accord- 
ance with the ancient custom, to become father by his widow, Thamai. For 
this he was punished by death. Gen. xxxviii, 8, sq. 

ONES'IMUS, (Gr. 'Ovr/cnyoc, profitable ,) the servant (or slave) in whose 
behalf Paul wrote the Epistle to Philemon. He was a native, or certainly 
an inhabitant, of Colosse, since Paul in writing to the Church there speaks of 
him (Col. iv, 9) as “ one of you.” Fleeing from his master Philemon to 
Rome, he was there led to embrace the Gospel through the instrumentality 
of the apostle. Philem. 10. After his conversion the most happy and friendly 
relations sprang up between the teacher and the disciple ; and so useful had 
he made himself to him, that Paul desired to have him remain with him. 
This, however, he forebore in view of the relations of Onesimus and his 
master’s right to his services. Onesimus, accompanied by Tychicus, left 
Rome with not only this epistle, but with that to the Colossians. Col. iv, 9, 
A. D. 64, (58.) 


404 


ONESIPHORUS — OTHNIEL. 


ONESIPHO'RUS, (G-r. ’O vrjmtyopos, profit-hearing ,) a Christian of Ephe- 
sus who not only ministered to the apostle there, (2 Tim. i, 18,) but who, 
being in Rome during Paul’s second imprisonment, “ was not ashamed of 
his chain,” sought out Paul, and “often refreshed” him. 2 Tim. i, 16, 17. 
A. D. 60, (about 64.) In his epistle the apostle uttered his appreciation of 
the services rendered by Onesiphorus, and sent salutations to “ the house- 
hold ” of his friend. Chap, iv, 19. 

O'PHIR, (Heb. Ophir ', “)DiK,) one of the sons of Joktan, the son of 

Eber, a great-grandson of Shem. Gen. x, 26-29 ; 1 Chron. i, 23. B. C. after 
2247. 

OPH'RAH, (Heb. Ophrah rnsy, fawn,) a Judaite, and son of Meonothai, 

(1 Chron. iv, 14,) although it is more than likely that the word “begat” 
here means to found, and that Ophrah is the name of a village. 

O'REB, (Heb. Or eh', 2"liy, raven,) one of the chieftains of the Midianite 

host which invaded Israel, and was defeated and driven back by Gideon. 
He was killed, not by Gideon himself or the people under his immediate con- 
duct, but by the men of Ephraim, who rose at his entreaty and intercepted 
the flying horde at the fords of the Jordan. Judg. vii, 24, 25. B. C. about 
1249. The terms in which Isaiah refers to it (chap, x, 26) are such as to 
imply that it was a truly awful slaughter. He places it in the same rank 
with the two most tremendous disasters recorded in the whole of the his- 
tory of Israel — the destruction of the Egyptians in the Red Sea and of the 
army of Sennacherib. (Compare Psa. lxxxiii.) 

O'REN, (Heb. same, pK, ash-free ,) the third -named of the sons of Jerah- 
meel of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 25. B. C. about 1471. 

OR'NAN, (Heb. Oman ', {yitf,) the form given in Chronicles (1 Chron. 
xxi, 15, 18, 20-25, 28 ; 2 Chron. iii, 1) to Araunah, (q. v.) 

OR'PAH, (Heb. Orpah ', HEPy, probably a gazelle ,) a Moabitess, and wife 

of Chilion, the son of Naomi. At first she was disposed to accompany her 
mother-in-law to Canaan, but afterward decided to remain among her own 
people. She gave Naomi the kiss of farewell, and returned “ unto her peo- 
ple and unto her gods.” Ruth i, 4, 14. B. C. about 1312. 

OSEE', a less correct mode (Rom. ix, 25) of Anglicizing the name of 
the prophet Hosea, (q. v.) 

OSHE'A, (Heb. Hoshe'a , y^in,) another form (Num. xiii, 8, 16, some- 
times Hoshed) of the name of Joshua, (q. v.) 

OTH'NI, (Heb. Othni ', "Ony, rny lion,) one of the sons of Shemaiah, and 
a porter of the tabernacle. 1 Chron. xxvi, 7. B. C. about 1015. 

OTH'NIELj (Heb. Othniel', ^N'Ony, lion of God.) 1. Name and Fam- 
ily. Called “ the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother.” Judg. iii, 9. 
The probability is that Kenaz was the head of the tribe, (Judah,) and that 
Othniel, as the son of Jephunneli, was a descendant of Kenaz. 

2. Personal History. (1) Captures Debir. The first mention of Oth- 
niel is on the occasion of the taking of Kirjath-sepher, or Debir, as it was 


OZEM — PALAL. 


405 


afterward called. Caleb, to whom the city was assigned, offered as a re* 
ward to its captor Aclisah, his daughter. Othniel won the prize. Josh, xv, 
16, 17 ; Judg. i, 12, 13. B. C. 1444. (2) Delivers Israel. “Israel forgot 

the Lord their God, and served Baalim and the groves,” (Ashtaroth.) As a 
punishment for their idolatry the Lord delivered them into the hands of 
Chushan-rishathaim, (q. v.,) king of Mesopotamia, whom they were obliged 
to serve for eight years. B. C. 1402-1394. In this oppression the Israelites 
cried unto the Lord, and he raised them up a deliverer in the person of 
Othniel the Kenizzite. “ The Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he 
judged Israel, and went out to war.” He prevailed against Chushan-rish- 
athaim, “ and the land had rest forty years : and Othniel the son of Kenaz 
died.” Judg.iii, 7-11. B. C. 1394-1354. 

2. An Othniel is mentioned (1 Chron. xxvii, 15) as ancestor of Heldai, 
the head of a family of Netophathites, and is probably the same person as 
above. 

O'ZEM, (Heb. O'tsem, probably strength.) 

1. The sixth son of Jesse, and next eldest above David. 1 Chron. ii, 15. 
B. C. about 1090. 

2. One of the sons of Jerahmeel. 1 Chron. ii, 25. B. C. about 1471. 

OZI'AS, (Gr. ’Of/af,) another form of the name of Uzziah, king of Ju- 
dah. Matt, i, 8, 9. 

OZ'NI, (Heb. Ozni', my ear , or eared, that is, attentive ,) the fourth 

son of Gad, and the founder of the family of Oznites. Num. xxvi, 16. B. C. 
1452. 


PA'ARAI, (Heb. Paaray ’nyQ, open,) “ the Arbite,” one of David’s val- 
iant men, (2 Sara, xxiii, 35,) called in 1 Chron. xi, 37, Naarai, (q. v.) 
PA'DON, (Heb. Paxton', |ns, deliverance ,) the name of one of the Neth- 

inim whose descendants returned from Babylon. Ezra ii, 44; Neh. vii, 47. 
B. C. about 536. 

PA'GTEIi, (Heb. Pagiel', event of God,) the son of Ocran, and 

chief of the tribe of Asher at the time of the exodus. Num. i, 13 ; ii, 27 ; 
vii, 72, 77; x, 26. B. C. 1491. 

PA'HATH-MO'AB, (Heb. Pach'ath Modi', fins, governor of 

Moal ,) the head of a leading family of Judah, whose descendants, to the 
number of 2,812, returned to Babylon after the captivity, (Ezra ii, 6; Neh. 
vii, 11, 2,818,) and another company, of 200 males, under Ezra. Ezra viii, 4. 
Hashub the Pahath-Moabite is named among the builders of the walls of 
Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 11. In Ezra x, 30, eight of the “sons” of Pahath- 
Moab are named as putting away their strange wives. That this family 
was of high rank in the tribe of Judah we learn from their appearing fourth 
in order in the two lists, Ezra ii, 6 ; Neh. vii, 11 ; and from their chief having 
signed second, among the lay princes, in Neh. x, 14. 

FA'LAL, (Heb. Palal', judge,) the son of Uzai, and one of those 

who assisted in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 25. B. C. 445. 


406 


PALLU— PASHUR. 


PALXU, (Heb. Palin', distinguished ,) the second-named of the 

sons of Reuben, (Gen. xlvi, 9, Phallu ; Exod. vi. 14 ; Num. xxvi, 5, 8 ; 
1 Cliron. v, 3,) and founder of the Palluites. Num. xxvi, 5. B. C. about 1706. 

FAI/TIj (Heb. Palti ^3, my deliverance ,) the son of Raphu of the 

tribe of Benjamin, and appointed to represent that tribe among the twelve 
spies. Hum. xiii, 9. B. C. 1490. 

PAI/TIEL, (Heb. Paltiel ', deliverance of God,) the son of Azzan, 

and prince of the tribe of Issachar. Num. xxxiv, 26. He was one of the 
twelve appointed to divide the land of Canaan among the tribes. B. C. 1452. 

PARMASH'TA, (Heb. Parmashta ', Kn^?“)Q,) the seventh-named of 
the sons of Haman, slain by the Jews. Esther ix, 9. B. C. about 509. 

PAR/MENAS, (Gr. Uapjuevdc, perhaps content ,) one of the seven dea- 
cons, “ men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom.” Acts 
vi, 5. There is a tradition that he suffered martyrdom at Philippi in the reign 
of Trajan. A. D. 33, (29.) Hippolytus says that he was at one time bishop 
of Soli. He is commemorated in the calendar of the Byzantine Church on 
July 28. 

PAR'NACH, (Heb. Parnak', !p"l3, perhaps swift,) father of Elizaphan, 

prince of the tribe of Zebulun at the close of the exodus. Num. xxxiv, 25. 
B. C. 1452. 

FA'ROSH, (Heb. Parosh ', a* flea,) the descendants of Parosli, in 

number 2,172, returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 3 ; Neh. vii, 8. 
Another detachment of 150 males, with Zechariah at their head, accom- 
panied Ezra. Ezra viii, 3. Seven of the family had married foreign wives. 
Ezra x, 25. They assisted in the building of the wall of Jerusalem, (Neh. 
iii, 25,) and signed the covenant with Nehemiah. Nelk x, 14. B. C. before 536. 

FARSHANDATHA, or PARSHAND A'THA, (Heb. Parshandatha' , 
NJVGKHE), perhaps given to Persia,) the eldest of Hainan’s ten sons who 

were slain by the Jews in Shushau. Esther ix, 7. B. C. about 509. 

PAR'UAH, or FARU'AH, (Heb. Paru'ach, rTflB, blossoming, or in- 
crease,) the father of Jehoshaphat, which latter was Solomon’s purveyor in 
Issachar. 1 Kings iv, 15k B. C. 1014. 

FA'SACH, (Heb. Pasak ', -ipa, cut off,) the first-named of the sons of 
Japhlet of the tribe of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 33. B. C. about 1450. 
PASE'AH, (Heb. Pase'ach, (IDE), lame.) 

1. One of the sons of Eshton, among the descendants of Judah, described 
as “ the men of Rechah.” 1 Chron. iv, 12. 

2. The head of a family of Nethinim who returned with Zerubbabel. 
Ezra ii, 49; Neh. vii, 51. His “ son,” (or descendant,) Jehoiada, assisted in 
restoring one of the gates of the city. Neh. iii, 6. B. C. probably before 
536. He is called Phaseah in Neh. vii, 51. 

PASH'UR, (Heb. Pashchur ', ‘■finC^El, prosperity round about, or lib- 
eration.) : 


PATROBAS— PAUL. 


407 


1. The son of Immer the priest. He was chief governor of the temple, 
(Jer. xx, 1,) and when he heard the prophecies of Jeremiah he smote Jer- 
emiah and put him in the stocks. The next day he released Jeremiah, who 
informed him that his name was changed to Magor-missabib, (that is, terror 
on every side,) and that he and all his house should be carried to Babylon 
and die there. Chap, xx, 2-6. B. 0. about 605. Nothing more is known of 
him. 

2. Another priest, the son of Malchiah, who in the reign of Zedekiali 
was one of the chief princes of the court. Jer. xxxviii. 1. He was sent, 
with others, by Zedekiah to Jeremiah at the time when Nebuchadnezzar 
was preparing his attack upon Jerusalem. Jer. xxi. B. 0. about 589. 
Again, somewhat later, Pashur joins with others in petitioning the king to 
have Jeremiah put to death because of his- denunciations. In the time of 
Nehemiah this family appears to have become a chief house, and its head 
the head of a course. 1 Chron. ix, 12 ; Ezra ii, 38 ; Neh. vii, 41 ; x, 3 ; xi, 12. 

3. The father of Gedaliah, which latter took part with Jucal and the 
Pashur last named in the accusation and imprisonment of Jeremiah. Jer. 
xxxviii, 1. B. 0. 589. 

PAT'ROBAS, (probably from Gr. Tlarpo&iog, life of his father ,) one of 
the Christians at Rome to whom Paul sent salutations. Rom. xvi, 14. A. D. 
60, (55.) 

PAUL. 1. Name and Family. (Gr. nauAo?,) originally Saul, 

Shaul , asked for.) He was a native of Tarsus, a city of Cilicia, (Acts xxi, 39 ; 
xxii, 3,) and was of pure Jewish descent, of the tribe of Benjamin. PhiL iii, 5. 
Of his mother there is no mention, and the information respecting his father 
is very meager, viz. : that he was a Pharisee, (Acts xxiii, 6,) and that from 
him Saul inherited the rights of Roman citizenship. Acts xxii, 28. The 
date of his birth is unknown, though an ancient tradition gives it as the 
second year after Christ. 

2. Personal History. (1) Previous to Conversion. It being the cus- 
tom among the Jews that all boys should learn a trade, Paul learned that of 
“ tent-making,” “ the material of which was hair-cloth, supplied by the 
goats of his native province, and sold in the markets of the Levant by the 
well-known name of cilicium.” — Conybeare and Howson, Life and Epistles 
of St. Paul. At the proper age (probably about thirteen years) he went to 
Jerusalem to prosecute his studies in the learning of the Jews. Here he 
became a student of Gamaliel, a distinguished teacher of the law. Acts xxii, 3. 
Here Saul grew more and more familiar with the outward observances 
of the law, and gaining that experience of the “spirit of bondage” which 
should enable him to understand himself, and to teach others, the blessing 
of the “ spirit of adoption.” (2) As Persecutor. Paul is first introduced to 
Us in connection with the martyrdom of Stephen, and the persecution which 
followed. A. D. 36. “ Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders 
and miracles among the people.” The learned members of the foreign syn- 
agogues endeavored to refute his teachings by argument or by clamor. As 
the Gilician synagogue is mentioned among them, we can readily believe 
that Saul was one of the disputants. In this transaction he was, if not 
an assistant, something more than a mere spectator, for “the witnesses 
laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was Saul.” 
Acts vii, 58. He is described as a young man, (reaving,) but was prob- 

w 


408 


PAUL, 


ably 30 years of age at least. After Stephen’s burial Saul continued 
his persecution of the Church, as we are told again and again in St. 
Luke’s narrative and in St. Paul’s own speeches and epistles. He 
“ made havoc of the Church,” invading the sanctuaries of domestic life, 
“ entering into every house,” (Acts viii, 3 ;) and those whom he thus tore 
from their homes he “ committed to prison.” And not only did men thus 
suffer at his hands, but women also, a fact three times repeated as a great 
aggravation of his cruelty. Chap, viii, 3. These persecuted people were 
even “scourged in the synagogues.” Chap, xxvi, 11. Nor was Stephen the 
only one to suffer death, as we may infer from the apostle’s own confession : 
“I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons 



TARSUS. 


both men and women, (chap, xxii, 4,) and when they were put to death I 
gave my voice against them.” Chap, xxvi, 10. He even endeavored to cause 
them “ to blaspheme.” Chap, xxvi, 1 1. His fame as an inquisitor was no- 
torious far and wide. Even at Damascus Ananias had heard “ how much 
evil he had done to Christ’s saints at Jerusalem.” Chap, ix, 13. It was not 
without reason that in his later years he remembered how he had “ perse- 
cuted the Church of GTod and wasted it.” Gfal. i, 13. (3) Saul’s Conversion. 

Owing to the persecution of the Church they were scattered abroad, and 
went every-where preaching the word. “ And Saul, breathing out threat- 
eniugs and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord,” determined to follow 


PAUL. 


409 



them. “ Being exceedingly mad against them, he persecuted them even to 
strange cities.” Chap, xxvi, 11. He went, therefore, to the high-priest 
“and desired of him letters to Damascus,” where he had reason to believe 
that Christians were to be found. While* on his journey to that city his 
wonderful conversion took place, changing the proud and persecuting Saul 
into the loving, helpful Paul. We hesitate to enlarge upon the words of 
Scripture, and refer to the narrative of St. Luke, Acts ix, 3-9. The conflict 
of Saul’s feelings was so great, and his remorse so piercing and deep, that 
during this time he neither ate nor drank. He could have had no inter- 
course with the Christians, for they had been terrified by the news of his 
approach. And the unconverted Jews could have no true sympathy with 
his present state of mind. But he called upon God, and in his blindness a 
vision was granted him — a vision soon to be realized — of his being restored 
to sight by Ananias. After his restoration he was baptized, communed with 
the disciples, and “ straightway preached Christ in the synagogues that he 
is the Son of God.” A. D. 37. Conscious of his divine mission, he never 
felt that it was necessary to consult “ those who were apostles before him, 
but he went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.” Gal. i, 17. Of 
the time thus spent we learn further from himself (Gal. i, 18) that it was 
three years, which may mean either three full years, or one year with parts 
of two others. We are not told to what district he retired, or for what pur- 
pose — perhaps for seclu- 
sion, meditation, and pray- 
er. Returning to Damas- 
cus, the Jews took counsel 
to slay him, but “ the dis- 
ciples took him' by night, 
and let him down by the 
wall in a basket.” Acts 
ix, 25. According to St. 

Paul (2 Cor. xi, 32) it was 
the ethnarch under Aretas, 
the king, who watched for 
him, desiring to apprehend 
him. (4) First Visit to Je- 
rusalem. Preserved from 
destruction at Damascus, 

Paul turned his steps to- 
ward Jerusalem. His mo- 
tive for the journey, as he 
himself tells us, was “ to 
see Peter.” Gal. i, 18. 

“ He assayed to join him- 
self to the disciples ; but 
they were all afraid of him 
and believed not that he 
was a disciple.” Barnabas 
became his sponsor to the 
apostles and Church, as- 
suring them of the facts of Paul’s conversion andsubsequent behavior at 
Damascus. Barnabas’s introduction quieted the fears of the apostles, an4 


410 


PAUL. 


Paul “was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. And he 
spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Gre- 
cians.” It is not strange that J;he former persecutor was singled out from 
the other believers as the object of a murderous hostility. He was there- 
fore again urged to flee, and, by way of Cesarea, betook himself to his na- 
tive city, Tarsus. The length of his stay in Jerusalem was fifteen days. 
Gal. i, 18. A. D. 39. (5) At Antioch. While Paul was at Tarsus a move- 
ment was going on at Antioch which raised that city to an importance sec- 
ond only to that of Jerusalem in the early history of the Church. A large 
number believed there through the preaching of the disciples driven from 
Jerusalem, and when this was reported at Jerusalem, Barnabas was sent 
on a special mission to Antioch. Needing assistance, he went to Tarsus to 
seek Saul. A. D. 44. Returning with him to Antioch, they labored together 
for “a whole year.” As new converts in vast numbers came in from the 
ranks of the Gentiles the Church began to lose its ancic nt appearance of a 
Jewish sect, and to stand as a self-existent community, and they were, 
therefore, first at Antioch distinguished as “ Christians.” While Barnabas 
and Saul were evangelizing the Syrian capital, certain prophets came down 
from Jerusalem to Antioch, and one of them, named Agabus, announced 
that a time of famine was at hand. No time was lost in preparing for the 
calamity. All the Antioch Christians, according to their ability, “ deter- 
mined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judea, which also, 
they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.” 
Acts xi, 22-30. This was the occasion of Paul’s second visit to Jerusalem. 
Having fulfilled their mission they returned to Antioch, bringing with them 
another helper. John, whose surname was Mark. Chap, xii, 25. While 
here the leaders of the Church “ ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy 
Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have 
called them.” Their brethren, after fasting and praying, laid their hands 
on them ; and so they departed. Chap, xiii, 1-3. (6) First Missionary 

Journey. The date of their departure is variously fixed. According to 
Usher it was A. D. 45 ; Lewin, 45-46 ; while Conybeare and Howson give 
48-49. (a) Cyprus. Their first point of destination was the island of 

Cyprus, the native place of Barnabas. Reaching Salamis, “ they preached 
the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews ; and they had also John 
to minister.” From Salamis they traveled to Paphos, at the other extremity 
of the island, the residence of the Roman governor, Sergius Pauluaj who, 
hearing of the arrival of Barnabas and Saul, sent for them, “desiring to 
hear the word of God.” Attached to the governor was a Jew named Bar- 
jesus, or Elymas, a false prophet and sorcerer, who, fearful of the influence 
of the apostles, “ withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from 
the faith.” Paul rebuked Bar-jesus, denounced him in remarkable terms, 
declaring against him God’s sentence of temporary blindness. The sight 
of Elymas began to waver, and presently a darkness settled on it so thick 
that he ceased to behold the sun’s light. The proconsul, moved by the 
scene and persuaded by the teaching of the apostle, became a believer. 
From this point of the apostolical history Paul appears as the great figure 
of Svery picture. He now enters on his work as the preacher to the Gen- 
tiles, and simultaneously his name is suddenly changed. Nothing is said 
to explain the change of name, though we find many conjectures among 
writers. See Difficulties, ip) To Perga and Antioch . From Paphos 


PAUL. 


411 


‘ Paul and his company ” set sail for Perga in Pamphylia, where they re- 
mained but a short time. An event occurred there 'which was attended 
with painful feelings at the time, and involved the most serious conse- 
quences; “John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.” Chap, xiii, 13. 
From Perga they traveled on to Antioch in Pisidia. Here “they went 
into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and sat down.” Being invited, 
“ after the reading of the law and the prophets,” to speak, Paul stood up and 
addressed the people. Chap, xiii, 16-41. The discourse made a deep and 
thrilling impression upon the audience, and the apostles were requested to 
repeat their message on the next Sabbath day. During the week so much 
interest was excited that on the Sabbath “ almost the whole city came to- 
gether to hear the word of God.” Filled with envy because of the desire 
of the Gentiles to hear, the Jews “ spake against those things which were 
spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.” The apostles turned to 
the Gentiles, and boldly proclaimed salvation to them. Opposition increas- 
ing, the apostles left Antioch (chap, xiii, 14-51) and came (c) to Iconium. 
Here they went first to the synagogue, and the effect of their discourses was 
such that great numbers, both of Jews and Greeks, believed the Gospel. 
Persecution was raised by the unbelieving Jews, but the apostles persevered 
and lingered in the city some considerable time, encouraged by the miracles 
which God worked through their instrumentality. * Learning the intention 
of the hostile Gentiles and their Jewish instigators to raise a riot and stone 
them, Paul and his company fled. ( d ) Lycaonia. They came to Lystra and 
Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and preached the Gospel. Here their mission 
was attested by a miracle — the cure of a cripple. The simple natives as- 
cribed the work to a present deity, and exclaimed, “ The gods are come 
down to us in the likeness of men.” They identified Paul with Mercury, 
and Barnabas with Jupiter, and were about to pay them divine honors. 
From this the apostles with difficulty dissuaded them. The people in gen- 
eral were disappointed at the repulse of the honors they had offered. The 
easy step from blind worship to rabid persecution was soon taken, at the 
instigation of certain Jews who came from Antioch and Iconium. Paul 
was stoned, and dragged out of* the city for dead ; but as the new disciples 
stood round him he revived and returned into the city, whence he and Bar- 
nabas departed the next day for Derbe, where they gained many disciples. 
( e ) Return. We have now reached the limit of St. Paul’s first missionary 
journey. He revisited Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, “ confirming the souls 
of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith.” The apos- 
tles also ordained elders in every Church for their teaching and guidance. 
They then passed through Pisidia and Perga (in Pamphylia) to Attalia, 
where they embarked for Antioch, in Syria, where they related the suc- 
cesses which had been granted to them, and especially “ the opening of the 
door of faith to the Gentiles.” And so ended the First Missionary Jour- 
ney. Chap. xiv. (7) The Council at Jerusalem, (Acts xv ; Gal. ii.) While 
Paul and Barnabas were abiding at Antioch, certain men came down from 
Judea and taught the brethren that it was necessary for the Gentile con- 
verts to be circumcised. This doctrine being vigorously opposed by the two 
apostles, it was determined to refer the question to the apostles and elders 
at Jerusalem. Paul and Barnabas themselves, and certain others, were se- 
lected for the mission. In Gal. ii, 2, St. Paul says that he went up “ by 
revelation.” On their way to Jerusalem they announced to the brethren in 


412 


PAUL. 


Pkerricia and Samaria the conversion of the Gentiles. Arrived at Jerusa- 
lem, Paul had private interviews with the more influential members of the 
Christian community. Gal. ii, 2. The apostles and the Church in general, 
it appears, would have raised no difficulties ; but certain believers, who had 
been Pharisees, thought fit to maintain the same doctrine which had caused 
the disturbance at Antioch. A formal decision became necessary. After 
considerable discussion Peter addressed the council, followed by Paul and 
Barnabas with a statement of facts. Then James gave his decision, which 
was adopted by the apostles, and elders, and brethren. They wrote to the 
Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, disavowing the men who, they 
say, “ going out from us, troubled you with words,” and bearing emphatic 
testimony to Paul and Barnabas as the “ beloved who have hazarded their 
lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Having been dismissed, the 
apostles returned to Antioch and read the epistle to the gathered multitude, 
who were greatly “ rejoiced for the consolation.” The apostles continued 
at Antioch preaching the word, and it is in this interval of time that 
we must place that visit of Peter to Antioch mentioned by Paul in the 
Epistle to the Galatians. Chap, ii, 11, sq. It appears that Peter, having 
come to Antioch, fellowshiped with the Gentile converts until the arrival of 
some Jewish brethren, when he ‘‘withdrew, and separated himself” from 
them. Paul, seeing this, rebuked Peter “ before all,” and “ withstood 
him to the face.” Soon after Paul expressed a desire to revisit the cities 
where he had preached and founded Churches. Barnabas determined to 
take John Mark with them, “ and the contention was so sharp between 
them that they departed asunder one from the other.” (8) Second Mis- 
sionary Journey. Paul chose Silas for his companion, and the two went 
together through Syria and Cilicia, visiting the Churches, and so came to 
Derbe and Lystra. (a) Timothy. At the latter place they found Timothy, 
whom Paul desired to take with him, and therefore circumcised because 
of the Jews. Paul then passed through the regions of Phrygia and Galatia, 
and avoiding, by direction of the Spirit, Asia and Bithynia, he came with 
his companions by way of Mysia to Troas, on the borders of the Helles- 
pont. Acts xvi, 1-8. ( b ) Visit to Macedonia. Paul saw in a vision a man 

of Macedonia, who besought him, saying, “ Come over into Macedonia 
and help us 1 ” The vision was understood to mean that “the Lord had 
called us to preach the Gospel unto them.” It is at this point that the 
historian, speaking of Paul’s company, substitutes “ we ” for “ they.” He 
says nothing of himself ; we can only infer that Luke, to whatever coun- 
try he belonged, became a companion of Paul at Troas. The party im- 
mediately set sail from Troas, touched at Samothracia, passed on to Neapolis, 
and from thence journeyed to Philippi, (c) At Philippi. The first convert 
in Macedonia was Lydia, a woman of Thyatira, who already worshiped 
God. She made a profession of her faith in Jesus and was baptized. So 
earnest was she in her invitation that Paul and his company made her 
house their home while at Philippi. Chap, xvi, 13-15, 40. A female 
slave, who brought gain to her masters by her powers of prediction when 
she was in the possessed state, beset Paul and his company. Paul, in the 
name of Jesus, cast the spirit out of the girl, whereupon her masters, seeing 
their hope of gain was gone, dragged Paul and Silas before the magistrates. 
They yielded to the clamor of the multitude, and ordered the apostles to be 
beaten and cast into prison. This cruel wrong was the occasion of the sig- 


PAUL. 


413 


tiai appearance of the G-od of righteousness and deliverance. The narra- 
tive tells of the earthquake, the jailer’s terror, his -conversion and baptism, 
also of the anxiety of the rulers when they learned that those whom they 
had beaten and imprisoned without trial were Roman citizens. Chap, xvi, 
16-40. ( d ) At Thessalonica. Leaving Philippi, Paul and Silas traveled 

through Amphipolis and Apollonia, and stopped again at Thessalonica. 
For three Sabbaths Paul proclaimed Christ in the synagogue, and as a re- 
sult some of the Jews, with many devout Greeks, “and of the chief women 
not a few,” consorted with Paul and Silas. But the envy of the unbelieving 
Jews was excited, and, gathering a mob, they assaulted the house of Jason, 
with whom Paul and Silas were staying as guests. “ And the brethren 
immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night.” Chap, xvii, 1-10. 
( e ) Berea. The next point reached was Berea, where the apostles found 
Jews more noble than those of Thessalonica had been. Accordingly they 
gained many converts, both Jews and Greeks. When the Thessalonian 
Jews heard of this they came hither and stirred up the people. A tumult 
was only avoided by Paul’s departure for the coast, whence he set sail for 
Athens, leaving Silas and Timothy behind him. Chap, xvii, 10-15. Some 
of “the brethren” went with Paul as far as Athens, where they left 
him, carrying back “ a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come 
to him with all speed.” (/) At Athens. And Paul was “ left in Athens 
alone.” 1 Thess. iii, 1. Ashe looked about him “he saw the city wholly 
given to idolatry,” and “ his spirit was stirred in him.” According to his 
custom, he sought out his brethren of the scattered race of Israel, declaring 
to them that the Messiah had come. He also began to discourse daily in 
the Agora (market-place) to them that met with him, among whom were 
philosophers of the Epicureans and Stoics. His teachings were received, 
partly in pity, partly in contempt, and yet any one with a novelty was wel- 
come to his hearers, “for all the Athenians, and strangers which were there, 
spent their time in nothing else but either to tell or to hear some new 
thing.” They, therefore, brought him to the Areopagus, that he might 
make to them a formal exposition of his doctrine. Here the apostle deliv- 
ered that wonderful discourse reported in Acts xvii, 22-31. Beginning by 
complimenting them on their carefulness in religion, he, with exquisite 
tact and ability, exposed the folly of their superstitions, and unfolded the 
character and claims of the living and true God. But when Paul spoke 
of the resurrection the patience of his audience failed ; some mocked him, 
and others thinking they had heard enough of his subject for the time, 
promised him another audience. “ So Paul departed from among them.” 
But some believed, among whom was Dionysius the Areopagite and a 
woman named Damaris. Chap, xvii, 16-34. We are not informed how long 
Paul remained in Athens, nor for what cause he left, (g) At Corinth. 
From Athens Paul proceeded to Corinth, where, as at Thessalonica, he chose 
to earn his own subsistence by working at his trade of tent-making. This 
brought him into an acquaintance with Aquila and Priscilla, with whom he 
made his home. “ And he reasoned in the synagogue every Sabbath, and 
persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.” While thus engaged Silas and Tim- 
othy came from Macedonia and joined him. The First Epistle to the Thessa- 
lonians was probably written at this time, drawn out from Paul by the re- 
port given him of the Church in Thessalonica, which he had been visiting. 
1 Thess. iii, 1, 2. Their coming greatly encouraged him, for he acknowl- 


414 


PAUL. 


edges himself to have been “ in weakness, and in fear, and in much tretri* 
bling.” 1 Cor. ii, 3. This was doubtless that period of pressing want from 
which he was relieved by the arrival of “ the brethren ” (Silas and Timothy) 
from Macedonia with contributions. 2 Cor. xi, 9. Rejected of the Jews, he 
turned to the Gentiles and worshiped in the house -of a proselyte named 
Justus. Encouraged by the conversion of Crispus, the chief ruler of the 
synagogue, and by a vision of the Lord, he remained in Corinth, teaching 
the word, a year and six months. During this period he probably wrote 
the Second Epistle to the Thessalonians. The Jews then made an unsuccess- 
ful attempt against Paul, but were defeated by the calmness of Gallio, the 
deputy. After remaining a good while at Corinth he departed into Syria, 
taking with him Priscilla and Aquila. Acts xviii, 1-18. ( 7i ) Return. The 

apostle’s destination was Jerusalem, desiring to be there oh the day of Pente- 
cost. Acts xx, 16. He journeyed thither by the way of Ephesus, leaving his 
friends, Aquila and Priscilla, there. This visit seems to have been a brief one, 
the only record of it being, “ And when he had landed at Cesarea, and gone 
up and saluted the Church, he went down to Antioch.” Acts xviii, 22. He 
thus completed his Second Missionary Journey in the early summer of A. D. 
54, (Conybeare and Howson,) or September, A. D. 53, (Lewin.) (9) Third 
Missionary Journey. After a considerable stay at Antioch “ Paul departed, 
and went aver all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthen- 
ing all the disciples,” (Acts xviii, 23,) and also giving directions for the col- 
lection in behalf of the poor saints in Jerusalem. 1 Cor. xvi, 1, 2. (a) At 

Ephesus. He then came to Ephesus, where he found about twelve disciples 
who had received the instructions of Apollos. Upon inquiry Paul found 
that they had only received John’s baptism, and were ignorant of the very 
existence of the Holy Ghost. He thereupon explained the mission of John 
as the teacher of repentance to prepare men’s minds for Christ, who is the 
true object of faith. They believed, were baptized, and received the miracu- 
lous gift of tongues and prophecy. Entering upon his public ministry, v for 
three months he spoke boldly in the synagogue, but being opposed, he 
withdrew to the school of one Tyrannus, where he discoursed daily for two 
years. “ And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul,” so that 
many from among the exorcists became converts, and burned their books 
of magic to the value of about $10,000. At about this time (according to 
Conybeare and Howson) he paid a visit to Corinth, and, returning to Ephesus, 
wrote the First Epistle to the Corinthians. The religious change was becom- 
ing so great that the craftsmen who gained their living by making models 
of the statue of Diana became alarmed and raised an insurrection. The 
danger increasing, the apostle and his companion left the city. Acts xviii- 
xx, 1. A. D. 57. (b) At Troas and Macedonia. On leaving Ephesus Paul 

went first to Troas, where he preached with great success, though much 
dejected by the non-arrival of Titus, who had been sent to Corinth. 2 Cor. 
ii, 1 2 , 13. The necessity of meeting Titus urging him forward, he sailed 
to Macedonia, and, landing at Neapolis, proceeded immediately to Philippi. 
Here he was “ comforted by the coming of Titus,” (2 Cor. vii, 6,) and was 
probably here rejoined by Timothy. 2 Cor. i, 1. Titus was sent to Corinth 
with the Second Epistle to the Corinthians , and to finish the collection he had 
begun there. 2 Cor. viii, 6, 16-18. Hearing that Judaizing teachers had 
been corrupting the Church of Galatia, Paul wrote the Epistle to the Gala- 
tians, powerfully refuting and remonstrating against the errors in question. 






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PAUL. 


417 


Paul traveled through Macedonia, perhaps to the borders of Illyricum, 
(Rom. xv, 19,) and then carried out the intention of which he had spoken 
so often, and arrived at Corinth, where he probably remained three months. 
f Acts xx, 2, 3. Here he wrote the Epistle to the Romans. Leaving Europe, 
’Paul now directed his course toward Jerusalem, accompanied by Luke. 
At Troas he restored Eutychus to life. Paul journeyed by land to Assos, 
where he took ship for Miletus. By invitation the elders of the Church at 
Ephesus met him here, and were bade an affectionate farewell. Acts xx. 
The voyage was then resumed, by the way of Coos, Rhodes, and Patara, to 
Tyre. Here Paul and his company remained seven days, and then sailed to 
Ptolemais, stopping one day, and reached Cesarea. In opposition to the 
entreaties of Philip (the evangelist) and others, as well as the prophetic in- 
timations of danger from Agabus, Paul determined to go on to Jerusalem. 
Chap, xxi, 1-17. B. C. summer 58. (10) Arrest at Jerusalem, etc. This 

fifth visit of Paul to Jerusalem since his conversion is the last of which 
we have any certain record. He was gladly received by the brethren, and 
the following day had an interview with James and the elders, declaring 
“ particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his 
ministry.” The charge had been brought against him that “ he taught all 
the Jews among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to 
circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.” In order to 
dispel this impression he was asked to do publicly an act of homage to the 
law. They had four men who were under the Nazarite law, and Paul 
was requested to put himself under the vow with these, and to supply the 
cost of their offerings. When the seven days were almost ended some Jews 
from Asia stirred up the people against him’ on the charge of bringing Greeks 
into the temple to pollute it. The whole city was moved, the apostle was 
dragged out of the temple, and they were about to kill him. The appear- 
ance of soldiers and centurions sent by the tribune stayed their blows. 
The tribune ordered Paul to be chained, and, not able to learn who he was 
nor what he had done, sent him to the castle. He obtained leave to address 
the people, (Acts xxi, 40; xxii, 1-21,) and delivered what he himself called 
his “ defense.” At the mention of his mission to the Gentiles they shouted, 
“Away with such a fellow from the earth ; for it is not fit that he should 
live.” Seeing that a tumult was imminent, the tribune sent him within the 
castle, ordering him to be examined by scourging. From this outrage the 
apostle protected himself by mentioning his Roman citizenship. On the 
morrow he was taken before the Sanhedrin ; no conclusion was arrived at ; 
only a dissension between the Sadducees and Pharisees. The life of the 
apostle being in danger, he was removed to the castle. That night he was 
cheered by a vision, in which he was told to “ be of good cheer,” for he 
must “ bear witness of Jesus at Rome.” The conspiracy of forty Jews to 
kill him was frustrated by tidings brought by Paul’s sister’s son, and it 
was determined to send him to Cesarea to Felix, the governor of Judea. 
Acts xxii, 21-xxiii, 24. (a) Before Felix. In charge of a strong guard of 

soldiers he was taken by night as far as Antipatris, the cavalry alone go- 
ing with him to Cesarea. Felix simply asked Paul of what province he 
was, promising him a hearing when his accusers should come. Chap, xxiii, 
23-35. Five days after the high-priest Ananias and certain members of the 
Sanhedrin appeared, with Tertullus as their advocate. The charges made 
against Paul were denied by him, and Felix delayed proceedings until 


* 


418 PAUL. 

“Lysias, the chief captain, should come down,” commanding that Paul 
should be treated with indulgence and his friends allowed to see him. 
“ After certain days ” Felix sent for Paul, influenced probably by the desire 
of Drusilla, his wife, to hear him, she being a Jewess. Felix trembled 
under his preaching, but was unrepentant, shutting his ears to conviction 
and neglecting his official duty, hoping that he might receive a bribe from 
Paul for his liberation. But not receiving this, he retained Paul a prisoner 
without a hearing two years, until the arrival of Festus. Acts xxiv. B. C. 
59. ( b ) Before Festus. As soon as the new governor, Festus, came to Je- 

rusalem he was requested to send for Paul. He replied that Paul should 
be kept at Cesarea, whither he ordered his accusers to accompany him. 
After ten days he returned, and on the next day Paul was brought before 
the tribunal. When asked if he was willing to be tried at Jerusalem, the 
apostle, aware of his danger, replied that he stood at Caesar’s judgment-seat. 
He then uttered the words “ Ccesarem appello ,” “ I appeal unto Caesar,” 
which a Roman magistrate dared not resist. Festus conferred with his 
council and replied, “ Hast thou appealed unto Caesar ? unto Caesar shalt 
thou go.” Acts xxv, 1-12. (c) Before Agrippa. While waiting for an 

opportunity to send Paul to Rome Festus desired to prepare an account of 
the trial to be sent to the emperor. This was a matter of some difficulty, 
as the information elicited at the trial was so vague that he hardly knew 
what statement to insert ; and it seemed “ unreasonable to send a prisoner 
and not to signify the crime laid against him.” Yer. 27. About this time 
King Agrippa II., with his sister Berenice, came on a complimentary visit 
to the new governor. To him Festus recounted the case, confessing his 
own ignorance of Jewish theology, whereupon Agrippa expressed a desire 
to hear the prisoner. The next day Agrippa and Berenice came with great 
pomp, with suite of military officers and chief men of Cesarea. Paul was 
brought, and, permission having been given him to speak, he pronounced 
one of his greatest apologies for the Christian truth. When he spoke of 
the resurrection Festus exclaimed, “ Paul, thou art beside thyself ; much 
learning doth make thee mad.” This Paul courteously denied, and, turning 
to the Jewish voluptuary, he made this appeal to him, “ King Agrippa, be- 
lievest thou the prophets ? I know that thou believest,” to which the king 
ironically responded, “ Thou wilt soon persuade me to be a Christian.” 
(Conybeare and Howson, trans.) The reply of Paul concluded the interview, 
and it was decided that he had done nothing worthy of death, and might 
have been set at liberty but for his appeal to Caesar. There was no retreat, 
and nothing remained but to wait for a favorable opportunity of sending 
the prisoner to Rome. Acts xxv, 13-27 ; xxvi. (11) Voyage to Rome. 
At length (about August, A. D. 60, Conybeare and Howson) Paul, under the 
care of Julius, a centurion of the Augustan cohort, set sail in a coasting 
vessel belonging to Adramyttium. The next day they touched at Sidon, 
“ and Julius courteously entreated Paul and gave him liberty to go unto his 
friends and refresh himself.” The next port reached was Myra, a city of 
Lycia, where they found a ship of Alexandria bound for Italy ; and to this 
vessel Julius transferred his prisoners. Leaving behind the harbor of 
Cnidus and doubling Salmone, the headland of Crete, they beat up with dif- 
ficulty under the lee of the island, as far as the fine harbor, near Lasaea, 
which still bears its ancient name of the Fair Havens. Contrary to the 
warning of the apostle that it would be perilous to continue the voyage at 


PAUL. 


419 


that season of the year, it was decided not to remain. The hope was to 
reach Phenice (Phoenix) and winter there. Overtaken by the Euroclydon , 
they were unable to bear up into the wind, and, letting the ship drive, were 
carried under the lee of a small island named Glauda. The storm raged 
with unabated fury, and the ship was drifting in the sea of Adria , when, on 
the fourteenth night after their departure from Clauda, they found them- 
selves near land. In the morning they ran aground, and all escaped safely 
to the land, which they found to be Melita , (Malta.) Acts xxvii. The peo- 
ple of the island treated them kindly, and were deeply impressed with 
Paul’s shaking off the viper from his hand, believing him to be a god. The 
company remained three months on the island, Paul performing miracles of' 



healing. They then departed in the ship “ Castor and Pollux,” and came, 
by the way of Syracuse and Rhegium, to Puteoli. in Italy. Here they found 
Christian brethren, with whom they tarried seven days : “ and so went to- 
ward Rome,” being met by brethren from that city at u Appii Forum and 
the Three Taverns .” .Acts xxviii, 11-15. Spring, A. D. 61. (12) At Rome. 

Upon his arrival in Rome the apostle was delivered to the prefect of the 
guard, (Praetorian,) but was allowed to dwell in his own hired house (under 
the care of a soldier) and to receive visitors. Chap, xxviii, 16, 30. After 
three days he invited the chief men among the Jews to come to him, and 
explained his position. He had committed no offense against the holy na- 
tion ; he came to Rome, not to accuse his countrymen, but compelled to ap- 


420 


PAtrii. 


peal to Caesar by their conduct. “ For the hope of Israel'' 1 he concluded, u 1 
am hound with this chain." They replied that they had received no letters 
concerning him, and that none of the brethren coming from Jerusalem had 
spoken evil of him. They expressed, also, a desire to hear further concern- 
ing his religious sentiments. The day for the hearing was set. They 
came in large numbers, and to them “ he expounded and testified the king- 
dom of God,” endeavoring to persuade them by arguments from their own 
Scriptures, “ from morning till evening.” Some believed, and others did not, 
and, separating, they “ had great reasoning among themselves.” Acts xxviii, 
17—29. He remained in liis own hired house, under military custody, and 
yet receiving every indulgence which it was in the power of the prefect to 
grant. He was permitted to preach “ the kingdom of God,” and teach “ those 
things concerning the Lord Jesus.” Yer. 31. This imprisonment lasted two 
years, (ver. 30,) from A. D. 61, spring, to A. D. 63, spring. Here closes the ac- 
count as given in the Book of Acts, but we gather from his epistles that during 
this time he wrote those to Philemon , Colossians , Ephesians , and Philippians. 
(13) Release and Subsequent Labors. At the end of the two years it is 
the general opinion that Paul was granted a trial before Nero which 
resulted in his acquittal and liberation. He then probably fulfilled his in- 
tention, lately expressed, (Philem. 22, and Phil, ii, 24,) of traveling east- 
ward through Macedonia and on to Ephesus, and thence to Colossae and 
Laodicea. From Asia Minor he went to Spain, (disputed by many,) where 
he remained two years. A. D. 64-66. Returning to Asia Minor and 
Macedonia, he wrote the First Epistle to Timothy ; to Crete, Epistle to Titus; 
winters at Nicopolis ; arrested there and forwarded to Rome for trial. This 
is the scheme as given by Conybeare and Howson. Lewin {Life of St. 
Paul ) gives the following scheme : St. Paul sails for Jerusalem, and goes 
thence by Antioch and Asia Minor, visiting Colossae, to Ephesus — to Crete 
— to Macedonia and Corinth, wintering at Nicopolis — traditional journey to 
Spain — probably arrested at Ephesus and taken to Rome. (14) Second 
Imprisonment and Death. This imprisonment was evidently more severe 
than the first one had been. Now he is not only chained, but treated as 
a malefactor.” 2 Tim. ii, 9. Most of his friends left him, many, perhaps, 
like Demas, “ having loved this present world,” (2 Tim. iv, 10,) others from 
necessity, and we hear the lonely cry, “ Only Luke is with me.” Chap, iv, 
11. So perilous was it to show any public sympathy with him that no 
Christian ventured to stand by him in the court of justice. As the final 
stage of his trial approaches he looks forward to death as his final sentence. 
Chap, iv, 6-8. Probably no long time elapsed after Paul’s arrival before 
his case came on for hearing. He seems to have successfully defended 
himself from the first (chap, iv, 17) of the charges brought against him, and 
to have been delivered from immediate peril and from a painful death. He 
was now remanded to prison to wait for the second stage of the trial. He 
probably thought that this would not come on, or at least the final decision 
would not be given, until the following winter, (chap, iv, 21,) whereas it 
actually took place about midsummer. “We are not left to conjecture the 
feelings with which he awaited this consummation ; for he has himself ex- 
pressed them in that sublime strain of triumphant hope which is familiar 
to the memory of every Christian, and which has nerved the heart of a 
thousand martyrs : “ I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, 
I have kept the faith : henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of right- 


PAUL. 


421 


eousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day.” 
The presence of Luke still consoled him, and Onesiphorus sought him out 
and visited him in his prison, undeterred by the fear of danger or of shame. 
Chap, i, 16. He longed, however, for the presence of Timothy, to whom 
he wrote the Second Epistle , urging him “ to come before winter.” Chap, 
iv, 21. We know not if Timothy was able to fulfill these last requests ; it is 
doubtful whether he reached Rome in time to receive his parting commands 
and cheer his latest sufferings. The only intimation which seems to throw 
any light upon the question is the statement in the Epistle to the Hebrews 
(chap, xiii, 23) that Timothy had been liberated from imprisonment in Italy. 
We have no record of the final stage of the apostle’s trial, and only know 
that it ended in martyrdom. A. D., summer, 68. He died by decapitation, 
according to universal tradition, and “ weeping friends took up his corpse 
and carried it for burial to those subterranean labyrinths (Clem., Rom., i, 5) 
where, through many ages of oppression, the persecuted Church found ref- 
uge for the living, and sepulchers for the dead.” 

3. Character. While we learn much concerning the character of Paul 
from his life and labors, his burning zeal, untiring industry, singleness 
of aim, patient suffering, sublime courage, it is in his letters that we must 
study his true life, for in them we learn “ what is told of Paul by Paul 
himself.” (Gregory Nazianzen.) “ It is not only that we there find models 
of the sublimest eloquence, when he is kindled by the visions of the glories 
to come, the perfect triumph of good over evil, the manifestation of the sons 
of God, and the transformation into God’s likeness ; but in his letters, be- 
sides all this which is divine, we trace every shade, even to the faintest, of 
his human character also. Here we see that fearless independence with 
which he ‘ withstood Peter to the face, because he was to be blamed,’ (Gal. 
ii, 11;) that impetuosity which breaks out in his apostrophe to the ‘fool- 
ish Galatians,’ (Gal. iii, 1 ;) that earnest indignation which bids his converts 
‘beware of dogs, beware of the concision,’ (Phil, iii, 2,) and pours itself forth 
in the emphatic 4 God forbid,’ (Rom. vi, 2 ; 1 Cor. vi, 15,) which meets every 
Antinomian suggestion ; that fervid patriotism which makes him ‘ wish that 
he were himself accursed from Christ for his brethren, . . . who are Isra- 
elites,’ (Rom. ix, 3 ;) that generosity which looked for no other reward than 
‘to preach the glad tidings of Christ without charge,’ (1 Cor. ix, 18, 25,) 
and made him feel that he would rather ‘die than that any man should 
make this glorifying void ; ’ that dread of officious interference which led 
him to shrink from ‘building on another man’s foundation,’ (Rom. xv, 20;) 
that delicacy which shows itself in his appeal to Philemon, whom he might 
have commanded, ‘ yet for love’s sake rather beseeching him.’ . . . (Philem. 
9 ;) that scrupulous fear of evil appearance which ‘ would not eat any man’s 
bread for naught, but wrought with labor and travail night and day, that he 
might not be chargeable to any of them,’ (1 Thess. ii, 9;) that refined court- 
esy which cannot bring itself to blame till it has first praised, (compare 
1 Cor. i, 5-7 ; 2 Cor. i, 6, 7, with latter part of these epistles,) and which 
makes him deem it needful almost to apologize for the freedom of giving 
advice to those who were not personally known to him, (Rom. xv, 14, 15 ;) 
that self-denying love which ‘ will eat no flesh while the world standeth, 
lest he make his brother to offend,’ (1 Cor. viii, 13 ;) that impatience of ex- 
clusive formalism with which he overwhelms the Judaizers of Galatia, 
joined with a forbearance so gentle for the innocent weakness of scrupq- 


422 


PAUL. 


lous consciences, (1 Cor. viii, 12; Rom. xiv, 21;) that grief for the sins of 
others which moved him to tears when he spoke of the enemies of the cross 
of Christ, ‘of whom I tell you even weeping,’ (Phil, iii, 18 ;) that noble free- 
dom from jealousy with which he speaks of those who, out of rivalry to 
himself, preach Christ even of envy and strife, supposing to add affliction 
to his bonds, ‘ What then ? notwithstanding every way, whether in pre- 
tense or in truth, Christ is preached ; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will 
rejoice,’ (Phil, i, 18;) that tender friendship which watches over the health 
of Timothy, even with a mother’s care, (1 Tim. v, 23;) that intense sympa- 
th} r in the joys and sorrows of his converts which could say, even to the 
rebellious Corinthians, ‘Ye are in our hearts, to die and live with you,’ 
(2 Cor. vii, 3 ;) that longing desire for the intercourse of affection, and that 
sense of loneliness when it was withheld, which perhaps is the most touch- 
ing feature of all, because it approaches most nearly to a weakness.” — 
Conybeare and Howson. 

Difficulties.— P aul’s citizenship. It is a mistake to suppose that Paul’s citi- 
zenship, which belonged to the members of the family, came from their being 
natives of Tarsus. Although it was a “free city,” ( urbs libera ,) enjoying the 
privilege of being governed by its own magistrates, and was exempted from the 
occupation of a Roman garrison, yet its citizens did not necessarily possess the 
civitas of Rome. The tribune, (Acts xxi, 39 ; xxii, 24,) as Dr. Bloomfield remarks, 
(on chap, xvi, 37,) knew that St. Paul was a Tarsian, without being aware that he 
was a citizen. This privilege had been granted, or descended to his father, as an 
individual right, perhaps for some services rendered to Caesar during the civil wars. 
(Conybeare and Howson ; Bloomfield, New Testament.) Member of the Sanhedrin. 
“ There are strong grounds for believing that, if Paul was not a member of the 
Sanhedrin at the time of Stephen’s death, he was elected into that powerful senate 
soon after ; possibly as a reward for the zeal he had shown against the heretic. 
He himself says that in Jerusalem he not only exercised the power of imprison- 
ment by commission from the high-priests, but also, when the Christians were put 
to death, gave his vote against them. Acts xxvi, 10. From this expression it is 
natural to infer that he was a member of that supreme court of judicature. If 
this inference is well founded, and the qualification for a member of the Sanhe- 
drin was that they should be the fathers of children, Saul lpust have been a 
married man, and the father of a family. If so, it is probable that his wife and 
children did not long survive ; for otherwise some notice of them would have oc- 
curred in the subsequent narrative, or some allusion to them in the epistles.” — 
Conybeare and Howson. Conversion. Some regard the circumstances of the 
case as by no means miraculous, but as produced solely by certain terrific natural 
phenomena, which they suppose had such an effect on the high-wrought imagina- 
tion, and so struck the alarmed conscience of Saul, as to make him regard as re- 
ality what was merely produced by fancy. “ Paul, however ardent might be his 
temperament and vivid his imagination, could not so far deceive himself as to sup- 
pose that the conversation really took place if there had been no more than these 
commentators tell us. . . . Besides, he is so minute in his description as to say it 
was in the Hebrew language.”— Bloomfield, New Testament. The discrepancies 
found in the several accounts (Acts ix, xxii, xxvi) have been differently explained. 
“ The Greek 1 akouo,’ like our word * hear,’ has two distinct meanings,' to perceive 
sound and to understand. The men who were with Saul heard the sound, but 
did not understand what was said to him. As to the fact that one passage repre- 
sents them as 1 standing,’ the other as having ‘ fallen to the earth,’ the word ren- 
dered ‘ stood ’ also means to be fixed , rooted to the spot. Hence the sense may be, 
not that they stood erect, but that they were rendered motionless, or fixed to the 
spot, by overpowering fear. Or, perhaps, when the lieht with such exceeding 
brilliancy burst upon them, they all ‘fell to the earth,’ but afterward rose and 
‘stood’ upon their feet.”— Haley, Discrepancies of the Bible. “Saul, who is 
also Paul,” (Acts xiii, 9.) “The invariable use in the Acts of Said up to this 
point, and Paul afterward, and the distinct mention by St. Luke himself of the 
transition, is accounted for by the desire to mark the turning-point between Saul’s 
activity among his own countrymen and his new labors as the Apostle of the 
Gentiles.”— Sm ith. “ We are inclined to adopt the opinion that the Cilician apos- 
tle had this Roman name, as well as his other Hebrew name, in his earlier days, 


PAUL. 


423 


and even before he was a Christian, ... yet we cannot believe it accidental that 
the words which have led to this discussion occur at this particular point of the 
inspired narrative. The heathen name rises to the surface at the moment when 
St. Paul visibly enters on his office as the apostle to the heathen.”— Conybeare and 
Howson, vol. i, pp. 152, 153. Journeys to Jerusalem. In the Book of Acts we 
are informed of live distinct journeys made by the apostle to Jerusalem after the 
time of his conversion. In the Epistles to the Galatians St. Paul speaks of two 
journeys to Jerusalem— the first being “three years” after his conversion, the 
second “ fourteen years” later. Gal. i, 18; ii, 1. The question arises whether the 
second journey of the epistle must be identified with the second, third, or fourth 
of the Acts; or whether it is a separate journey, distinct from any of them. It is 
agreed by all that the fifth cannot possibly be intended. Paley and Schrader have 
resorted to the hypothesis that the Galatian visit is some supposed journey not re- 
corded in the Acts at all. Conybeare and Howson ( Life and Epistles of St. Paul) 
identify it with the third journey of Acts. Chap.xv. “ Ye are too superstitious,” 
(Acts xvii, 22.) This translation (from the Vulgate superstitiosiores) cannot by 
any means be defended. Conybeare renders, “ All things which I behold bear 
witness to your carefulness in religion,” and adds, “The mistranslation of this 
verse in the Authorized Version is much to be regretted, because it entirely de- 
stroys the graceful courtesy of St. Paul’s opening address, and represents him as 
beginning his speech by offending his audience.” ( Life and Epistles, vol. i, p. 
378.) Bloomfield ( New Testament ) translates “very religious,” that is, attentive 
to religion, (as far as they understood it.) Vow at Cenchrea, (Acts xviii, 18.) 
The impression on the reader’s mind is that Paul himself shaved his head at Cen- 
chrea, because he had a vow. Eminent commentators hold the view that the 
ceremony was performed by Aquila ; also that the vow was not one of Nazarite, 
but a votum civile, such as was taken during or after recovery from sickness, or 
deliverance from any peril, or on obtaining any unexpected good. In case of 
a Nazarite vow the cutting of the hair, which denoted that the legal time had 
expired, could only take place in the temple in Jerusalem, or at least in Judea. 
(Conybeare and Howson; Bloomfield, New Testament.) Reply to Ananias, 
(Acts xxiii, 3-5.) “ God shall smite thee,” etc. Some consider these words as an 
outburst of natural indignation, and excuse it on the ground of the provocation, as 
a righteous denouncing of an unjust ruler. Others think them a prophetic denun- 
ciation, terribly fulfilled when Ananias was murdered in the Jewish war. (Jose- 
phus, Wars, xi, 17, 9.) “I wist not, brethren, that he was the high-priest.” 
These words are variously explained. “ Some think that St. Paul meant to confess 
that he had been guilty of a want of due reflection ; others, that he spoke iron- 
ically, as refusing to recognize a man like Ananias as high-priest ; others have 
even thought that there was in the words an inspired reference to the abolition of 
the sacerdotal system of the Jews and the sole priesthood of Christ. Another class 
of interpreters regard St. Paul as ignorant of the fact that Ananias was high-priest, 
or argue that Ananias was not really installed in office. And we know from Jo- 
sephus that there was the greatest irregularity in the appointments about this 
time. Lastly, it has been suggested that the imperfection of St. Paul’s vision was 
the cause of his mistake. (Conybeare and Howson.) Charge against St. Paul 
before Felix, (Acts xxiv, 5, 6.) St. Paul was accused of a threefold crime: first, 
with causing factious disturbances among all the Jews throughout the empire, 
(which was an offense against the Roman government, and amounted to Majestas, 
or treason against the emperor ;) secondly, with being a ringleader of the sect of 
the Nazarenes, (which involved heresy against the law of Moses ;) and thirdly, with 
an attempt to profane the temple at Jerusalem, (an offense not only against the 
Jewish, but also against the Roman law, which protected the Jews in the exercise 
of their worship. (Conybeare and Howson, vol. ii, p. 282.) Thorn in the flesh, 
(2Cor. xii, 7.) “The best commentators are, with reason, agreed that the word 
GKo fanp, thorn, must be taken in the natural sense, as denoting some very pain- 
ful disorder or mortifying infirmity ; grievous afflictions being, in all languages, 
expressed by metaphors taken from the piercing of the flesh by thorns or splin- 
ters. Various acute disorders have been supposed to be meant, as the headache, 
(Jerome, Tertullian,) earache, impediment in speech, (chap, x, 10,) malady affect- 
ing the eye-sight. “ But it should rather seem that some chronical distemper or 
infirmity is meant, and probably such as was exceedingly mortifying as well as 
painful ; otherwise the apostle would scarcely have felt such anxiety to have it 
removed. The most probable conjecture is that it was a paralytic and hypochon- 
driac affection, which occasioned a distortion of countenance, and many other dis- 
tressing effects, which would much tend to impede his usefulness.”— Bloomfield, 
New Testament. 


424 


PEDAH EL — PEKAH. 


FED'AHEL, (Heb. PedaheV, f>NPn3, whom God delivers,) the son of 

Ammihud, and prince of the tribe of Naphtali. He was appointed by Moses 
one of the commissioners to divide Palestine. Num. xxxiv, 28. B. C. 
1452. 

PEDAH'ZUR, (Heb. Pedahtsur TfiftTlB, whom the Rock preserves ,) the 

father of Gamaliel, a prince of Manasseh, and appointed with others to as- 
sist Moses in numbering the people. Num.' i, 10 ; ii, 20; vii, 54, 59 ; x, 23. 
B. C. 1490. 

PEDATAH, or FEDAFAH, (Heb. Pedayah ppHB, preserved of Je- 
hovah.) 

1. The father of Zebudah, who was the wife of Josiah and mother of 
Jehoiakim. 2 Kings xxiii, 36. B. C. before 646. 

2. The father of Zerubbabel, (q. v.,) by the widow of his brother Sal- 
athiel, (1 Chron. iii, 18,) in accordance with the Levirate law. B. C. before 
536. 

3. The father of Joel, which latter was the “ ruler ” of the western half- 
tribe of Manasseh. 1 Chron. xxvii, 20. B. 0. about 1015. 

4. An Israelite, of the family of Parosh, who assisted in rebuilding the 
walls of Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 25. B. C. 445. 

5. Mentioned only in the genealogy of Sallu, as the son of Kolaiah and 
father of Joed, of the tribe of Benjamin. Neh. xi, 7. B. C. before 445. 

6. A Levite whom Nehemiah appointed one of the treasurers, whose 
“ office was to distribute unto their brethren,” (Neh. xiii, 13 ;) and probably 
one of those who stood on Ezra’s left hand when he read the law. Neh. 
viii, 4. B. C. 445. 

PE'KAH, (Heb. Pe'kach, nj5B, open-eyed ,) the eighteenth king of Israel. 

He is introduced into Scripture history as the son of Remaliah, and cap- 
tain of King Pekaiah, whom he murdered and succeeded to the throne. 
2 Kings xv, 25. B. C. 759. From the fact that fifty Gileadites were with 
him in the conspiracy it has been conjectured that he was a native of Gil- 
ead. “ Under his predecessors Israel had been much weakened through 
the payment of enormous tribute to the Assyrians (see especially 2 Kings 
xv, 20) and by internal wars and conspiracies. Pekah steadily applied him- 
self to the restoration of its power. For this purpose he sought for the 
support of a foreign alliance, and fixed his mind on the plunder of the sis- 
ter kingdom of Judah. He must have made the treaty by which he pro- 
posed to share its spoil with Rezin, king of Damascus, when Jotham was 
still on the throne of Jerusalem, (2 Kings xv, 37 ;) but its execution was 
long delayed, probably in consequence of that prince’s righteous and vigor- 
ous administration. 2 Chron. xxvii. When, however, his weak son Ahaz 
succeeded to the crown of David, the allies no longer hesitated, and formed 
the siege of Jerusalem. The history of the war is found in 2 Kings xvi 
and 2 Chron. xxviii. It is famous as the occasion of the great prophecies 
in Isaiah vii-ix.” — Smith, Dictionary , s. v. Pekah was despoiled of at least 
half of his kingdom, and fell into the position of an Assyrian vassal. 2 Kings 
xv, 29. B. C. 740. About a year later Hoshea conspired against him and 
put him to death. Yer. 30. Of his character and reign it is recorded, 
“ He did that which was evil in the sight of the Dord,” 


PEKAHIAH— PENINNAH. 


425 


PEKAHI'AH, (Heb. Pekachyah ', opening [of the eyes] by Jeho- 

vah,) the seventeenth king of Israel, being the son and successor of Men- 
ahem. After a brief reign of scarcely two years a conspiracy was organ- 
ized against him by Pekah, who, at the head of fifty Gileadites, attacked 
him in his palace, murdered him and his friends Argob and Arieli, and 
seized the throne. 2 Kings xv, 23-26. B. C. 761-759. His reign was an 
idolatrous one, he following in the sinful practices of Jeroboam. 

PE LAP AH, (Heb. Pelayah ', rpfc6s, distinguished by Jehovah.) 

1. A son of Elioenai, of the royal line of Judah. 1 Chron. iii, 24. B. C. 
after 400. 

2. One of the Levites who assisted Ezra in expounding the law. Neh. 
viii, 7. B. C. 445. He afterward sealed the covenant with Nehemiah. 
Neh. x, 10. 

PELALFAH, (Heb. Pelalyah', rpf^E), whom Jehovah judges,) a priest, the 
son of Amzi and father of Jeroham. Neh. xi, 12. B. C. before 445. 

PELATFAH, (Heb. Pelatyah', and whom Jehovah de- 
livers.) T : ~ 8 T : : 

1. A son of Hananiah, the descendant of Salathiel, of the family of Da- 
vid. 1 Chron. iii, 21. B. C. after 536. 

2. A son of Ishi, and captain of one of the marauding bands of Simeon- 
ites who, in the reign of Hezekiah, made an expedition to Mount Seir and 
smote the Amalekites. 1 Chron. iv, 42. B. C. about 715. 

3. One of the chief of the people who signed the covenant with Nehe- 
miah. Neh. x, 22. B. C. 445. 

4. Son of Benaiah, and one of the princes against whom Ezekiel was 
commanded to prophecy. The prophet saw him in a vision standing at the 
east gate of the temple ; and the same vision revealed to him Pelatiah’s 
sudden death. Ezek. xi, 1, 13! B. C. about 594. 

PE'LEG, (Heb. same, division,) the son of Eber, and fourth in de- 
scent from Shem. His brother’s name was Joktan, and his son’s Reu. 
Gen. x, 25 ; xi, 16-19 ; 1 Chron. i, 25. His name is said to have been 
given him because “ in his days was the earth divided.” Gen. x, 25 ; 1 Chron. 
i, 19. B. C. 2247-2008. 

PE'LET, (Heb. same, deliverance.) 

1. A son of Jahdai, who seems to have been of the family of Caleb the 
Hezronite. 1 Chron. ii, 47. B. C. after 1451. 

2. One of the sons of Azmaveth, one of David’s Benjamite captains at 
Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 3. B. C about 1058. 

PE'LETH, (Heb. same, swiftness.) 

1. A Reubenite, and father of On, who joined in the conspiracy of Ko- 
rah, Dathan, and Abiram. Num. xvi, 1. B. C. 1490. 

2. Son of Jonathan, and a descendant of Jerahmeel through Onan. 
1 Chron. ii, 33. B. C. perhaps 1451. 

PENIN'NAH, (Heb. Peninnah', H3JS), coral,) one of the wives of Elka- 
nah, the father of Samuel. No mention is made of her save that she bore 
27 


426 


PENUEL — PETEB. 


children and behaved provokingly toward Hannah, the other wife. 1 Sam. 
i, 2—1. B. C. about 1171. 

PENU'EL, (Heb. Penuel', ^3B,/oce of God.) 

1. A son of Hur, and grandson of Judah, and father (that is, founder) of 
Gedor. 1 Chron. iv, 4. B. C. after 1706. 

2. The last-named of the eleven sons of Shashak, a chief man resident 
in Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 25. B. C. perhaps about 1400. 

PE'RESH, (Heb. same, KHQ, excrement,) a son of Machir, the Manassite, 
by his wife Maachah. 1 Chron. vii, 16. B. C. about 1491. 

FE'REZ, (1 Chron. xxvii, 3 ; Neh. xi, 4.) See Pharez. 

PERFDA, (Neh. vii, 57.) See Peruda. 

PER'SIS, (Gr. Uepoig, Persian ,) a Christian woman at Rome to whom 
Paul sent salutations. Rom. xvi, 12. A. D. 60, (55.) 

PERU'DA, (Heb. Peruda', kernel; in Neh. vii, 57, the name is 

written Perida ', KTHQ.) the name of one of “ Solomon’s servants,” whose 

descendants returned with Zerubbabel from Babylon. Ezra ii, 55. B. C. 
before 536. 

FE'TER. 1. Name and Family. (Gr. n erpog, a rock.) Formerly 
Simon. Peter was the son of Jonas, (Matt, xvi, 17 ; John i, 42 ; xxi, 15, 16,) 
and probably a native of Bethsaida in Galilee. John i, 44. 

2. Personal History. (1) Occupation. Peter and his brother Andrew 
were fishermen on the Sea of Tiberias, (Matt, iv, 18 ; Mark i, 16,) and part- 
ners of James and John. Luke v, 10. Although his occupation was a hum- 
ble one, yet it was not incompatible with some degree of mental culture, 
and seems to have been quite remunerative. (2.) Meets Jesus. With his 
brother Andrew, Peter was a disciple of John the Baptist; and when their 
teacher pointed out Jesus to Andrew as the Lamb of God, Andrew went to 
him and told him, “ We have found the Messias.” He brought him to Je- 
sus, who looked upon him and said, “Thou art Simon the son of Jonas; 
thou shalt be called Cephas .” John i, 36-42. This interview resulted in 
no immediate change in Peter’s external position. He returned to Caper- 
naum and continued his usual avocation, waiting further instruction. (3) Call. 
This was received on the Sea of Galilee, where the four partners were en- 
gaged in fishing. The people were pressing upon Jesus to hear the word, 
and entering into Peter’s boat, which at his request was thrust out a little 
from the land, he discoursed to ilie multitude. After this he wrought the 
miracle of the great draught of fishes, foreshadowing the success of the 
apostles as fishers of men. Peter and Andrew immediately accepted the 
call, and, leaving all, were soon after joined by James and John, who also 
received a call to follow the Master. Matt, iv, 18-22 ; Mark i, 16-20 ; Luke 
v, 1-11. A. D. 30, (27.) Immediately after this Jesus wrought the miracle 
of healing on Peter’s wife’s mother, (Matt, viii, 14, 15; Mark i, 29-31: 
Luke iv, 38-40,) and Peter for some time attended upon our Lord’s ministry 
in Galilee, Decapolis, Petrsea, and Judea, returning at intervals to his own 
city. During this period he was selected as one of the witnesses of the 
raising of Jairus’s daughter. Mark v, 22, 37 ; Luke viii, 41, 51. (4) Apostle. 

“ The special designation of Peter and his eleven fellow-disciples took place 


PETER. 


427 


some time afterward, when they were set apart as our Lord’s immediate 
attendants. See Matt, x, 2-4; Mark iii, 13-19, the most detailed account; 
Luke vi, 13. They appear then first to have received formally the name 
of apostles, and from that time Simon bore publicly, and as it would seem 
almost exclusively, the name Peter, which had hitherto been used rather 
as a characteristic appellation than as a proper name.” The following facts 
are recorded of Peter in the Gospels : 1. Walks on the sea. On one occa- 
sion the vessel, in which were a number of the disciples, was in the midst 
of the sea, tossed with waves. Jesus appeared walking on the sea, much 
to the alarm of the disciples, who said, “ It is a spirit.” Hearing his words 
of encouragement, Peter put the Master to the test by saying, “ Lord, if it 
be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.” Jesus replied, “Come,” 
and Peter, obeying, walked for a while on the surface of the sea, but losing 
his confidence because of the tempest, began to sink, and uttered the cry, 
“ Lord, save me.” The Master took him by the hand, and accompanied 
him to the ship. When safe in the vessel Peter fell down at his feet and 
declared, “ Of a truth thou art the Son of God.” Matt, xiv, 25-33. 2. We 

find him asking the meaning of our Lord’s parable of the blind leading the 
blind. Matt, xv, 15. 3. Confession. In a conversation with his disciples as 

to men’s declarations concerning himself, Jesus asks, “But whom say ye 
that I am ? ” Peter promptly replied, “ Thou art the Christ, the Son of the 
living God.” In his reply the Master made the declaration, so often com- 
mented upon, “ Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church,” 
etc. Matt, xvi, 13-19; Mark viii, 27-29; Luke ix, 18-20. See Difficul- 
ties. 4. Rebukes Jesus. Our Lord on one occasion began to inform his 
disciples. of his coming sufferings and death, when “Peter took him and 
began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord.” But Jesus turned 
and said unto Peter, “Get thee behind me Satan,” etc. Matt, xvi, 21-23; 
Mark viii, 31-33. “ Our Lord seems to call Peter Satan. Not quite so. 

But he recognizes a Satan speaking in the words that Peter utters.” — Whe- 
don, Commentary , in loco. 5. Mount of Transfiguration. Peter, with James 
and John, was a witness of our Lord’s transfiguration, and in the ecstasy of 
the hour exclaimed, “Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us 
make here three tabernacles ; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for 
Elias.” Matt, xvii, 1, sq. ; Mark ix, 2, sq. ; Luke ix, 28, sq. 6. Mention is 
made of Peter’s inquiry as to forgiveness, (Matt, xviii, 21 ;) declaration of 
having left all for Jesus’ sake, (Matt, xix, 27 ; Mark x, 28 ; Luke xviii, 28 ;) 
asking the meauing of the parable of the overturning of the temple (Mark 
xiii, 3) and of the servant watching for his lord, (Luke xii, 41 ;) and call- 
ing the Master’s attention to the withered fig-tree. Mark xi, 21. 7. The 

last supper. When Jesus would keep the passover he commissioned Peter 
and John to make proper preparation. Luke xxii, 8. All being ready 
for the supper, Jesus began to wash the disciples’ feet; but when he 
came to Peter, he, in his presumptuous humility, declared, “ Thou shalt 
never wash my feet,” but upon the Master replying, “ If I wash thee not, 
thou hast no part with me,” Peter consented with the request that the wash- 
ing might include both hands and head. John xiii. 2, sq. When our Lord 
declared that one of them would betray him, Peter beckoned to John that 
he should ask of whom he spake. John xiii, 24. Still later he stoutly as- 
serted that under no circumstances would he ever leave his Master, to 
which Jesus replied by saying, “ Simon, Simon, behold Satan hath desired 


428 


PETER. 


you, that he may sift you as wheat,” and told him of his speedy denial. 
Matt, xxvi, 33; Mark xiv, 29; Luke xxii, 31; John xiii, 36. 8. At Geth- 

semane. Peter and the two sons of Zebedee accompanied Jesus to Geth- 
semane, (Matt, xxvi, 37, sq. ; Mark xiv, 32,) and when Judas came, with his 
company, to apprehend the Lord, Peter drew his sword and cut off the right 
ear of Malchus, a servant of the high-priest, for which he was promptly 
rebuked. Matt, xxvi, 51 ; John xviii, 10. 9. Denial. When Jesus was ap- 

prehended Peter followed him at a distance to the palace of Caiaphas, “ and 
went in, (John speaking to the portress in his behalf,) and sat with the 
servants to see the end.” While in the court “ a damsel (the portress) came 
unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee.” Peter “ denied 
before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest.” Matt, xxvi, 58, 69, 
70; Mark xiv, 66-68; Luke xxii, 55-57 ; John xviii, 15-17. Peter’s second 
denial occurred in the porch, to which he had withdrawn. Another maid 
declared to those who were standing about, “ This fellow was also with Je- 
sus of Nazareth.” Peter, with an oath, denied even an acquaintance with 
Jesus. Matt, xxvi, 71, 72 ; Mark xiv, 69, 70; Luke xxii, 58, (where the ac- 
cuser was a man ;) John xviii, 25. His third denial was uttered after a 
while, Luke says an hour , and was in reply to some who charged him with 
being one of the disciples of Jesus, saying, “ Thy speech betrayeth thee,” 
Peter probably having made some remark in his Galilean dialect. He 
cursed and swore, and declared, “ I know not the man.” The crowing of 
the cock and the look of our Lord awakened Peter to a sense of his guilt, 
and he “ went out and wept bitterly.” Matt, xxvi, 73-75 ; Mark xiv, 70-72 ; 
Luke xxii, 59-62 ; John xviii, 26, 27. 10. At the sepulcher. On the morn- 

ing of the resurrection the women, finding the stone removed from the 
door of the sepulcher, hastened to tell the disciples. Mary Magdalene out- 
stripped the rest, and told Peter and John, who immediately ran toward 
the spot. John outran Peter, but did not enter the sepulcher. Peter, when 
he came up, went in and saw the linen clothes and the napkin laid carefulty 
away, showing that there had been no violence or pillage. John now en- 
tered and believed that his Lord had risen, but Peter departed “ wondering 
in himself at that which had come to pass.” Luke xxiv, 10-12 ; John xx, 
1-8. 11. Restoration. “We are told by Luke (chap, xxiv, 34) and by Paul 

that Christ appeared to him first among the apostles. It is observable, 
however, that on that occasion he is called by his original name, Simon, not 
Peter : the higher designation was not restored until he had been publicly 
reinstituted, so to speak, by his Master. That reinstitution took place at 
the Sea of Galilee, (John xxi.) an event of the very highest import. Slower 
than John to recognize their Lord, Peter was the first to reach him: he 
brought the net to land. The thrice repeated question of Christ, referring 
doubtless to the three protestations and denials, was thrice met by answers 
full of love and faith. He then received the formal commission to feed 
Christ’s sheep, rather as one who had forfeited his place, and could not 
resume it without such an authorization. Then followed the prediction of 
his martyrdom, in which he was to find the fulfillment of his request to be 
permitted to follow the Lord. With this event closes the first part of Pe- 
ter’s history.” — Smith, Dictionary. (5) Subsequent History. After this 
Peter stands forth as the recognized leader of the apostles, although it is 
clear that he does not exercise or claim any authority apart from them, 
much less over them. It is he who points out to the disciples the neces- 


PETER. 


429 


sity of filling the place of Judas and the qualifications of an apostle. Acts 
i, 15, sq. 1. Pentecost On the day of Pentecost Peter, as the spokesman 
of the apostles, preached that remarkable sermon which resulted in the con- 
version of about 3,000 souls. Acts ii, 14, sq. 2. First miracle. Peter and 
John went up to the temple to pray, and as they were about to enter, a lame 
man, who was lying at the entrance of the gate called Beautiful, accosted 
them, asking alms. Peter said to him, “ Look on us. . . . Silver and gold 
have I none : but such as I have give I thee : in the name of Jesus Christ 
of Nazareth rise up and walk.” When the people ran together to Solomon’s 
porch, Peter preached Jesus to them. For this the apostles were impris- 
oned, and the next day were brought before the Sanhedrin to answer the 
question “ by what power or by what name they had done this? ” Peter re- 
plied with boldness, and they were dismissed. Acts iii-iv, 23. 3. Ananias 

and Sapphira. In this miracle of judgment “ Peter acted simply as an in- 
strument, not pronouncing the sentence, but denouncing the sin, and that 
in the name of his fellow-apostles and of the Holy Ghost.” Acts v, 1-11. 
4. In prison. Many miracles of healing being performed by the apostles, 
they were thrust into prison ; “ but the angel of the Lord by night openecf 
the prison doors,” and commanded them to go to the temple and preach the 
words of life. They were brought before the liigh-priest and rebuked for 
their preaching, but Peter declared it to be their purpose “to obey God 
rather than men, ? ’ and charged the rulers of the people with being guilty 
of the murder of Jesus. Angered at his words, they sought to slay the 
apostle, but were restrained by the wise counsel of Gamaliel. Acts v, 14, 
sq. 5. In Samaria. After Philip had preached a while in Samaria, Peter 
and John were sent down to confirm the converts ; and while there Peter 
rebuked Simon the sorcerer, and showed him that, though professedly a be- 
liever, he was still “ in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.” 
Acts viii, 14-24. 6. Meets Paul , etc. About three years later (compare Acts 

ix, 26, and Gal. i, 17, 18) we have two accounts of the first meeting of 
Peter and Paul. This. interview was followed by other events marking 
Peter’s position — a general apostolical tour of visitation to the churches 
hitherto established, (Acts ix, 32,) in the course of which two great mira- 
cles were wrought on Eneas and Tabitha, and in connection with which the 
most signal transaction after the day of Pentecost is recorded, the baptism 
of Cornelius. Acts x, 1-48. His conduct gave great offense to his country- 
men, (Acts xi, 2,) and it needed all his authority, corroborated by a special 
manifestation of the Holy Ghost, to 
induce his fellow-apostles to recog- 
nize the propriety of this great act. 

7. Miraculous deliverance. A few years 
later, (A. D. 44,) Herod, having found 
that the murder of James pleased the 
Jews, arrested Peter and put him in 
prison. He was kept under the care 
of four quaternions, (bands of four 
soldiers,) who relieved one another on 
the watch. Two were stationed at 
the gate, while the other two were 
attached to Peter by chains. Notwithstanding these precautions, an 
angel delivered the apostle, who reported himself at the house of Mary, 



ROMAN PRISONER CHAINED. 



430 


PETER. 


the mother of John Mark, where many of the Church were gathered pray- 
ing for his safety. Acts xii, 2-17. His miraculous deliverance marks the 
close of this second great period of his ministry. The special work assigned 
to him was completed. From that time we have no continuous history of 
him. It is quite clear that he retained his rank as the chief apostle ; 
equally so, that he neither exercised nor claimed any right to control their 
proceedings. He left Jerusalem, but it is not said where he went. Cer- 
tainly not to Rome, where there are no traces of his presence before the 
latter part of his life. Some years later (A. D. 51) we find him in Jerusa- 
lem at the convention of apostles and elders, convened to consider the 
question whether converts should be circumcised. Peter took the lead in 
the discussion, contending that salvation came through grace, which was 
received through faith; and that all distinctions between believers were 
thereby removed. Chap, xv, 7, sq. His argument was enforced by James, 
and the question was at once and finally settled. A painful collision oc- 
curred between Peter and Paul at Antioch. Peter had there eaten with 
Gentiles ; but when certain from Jerusalem, sent by James, came, fearful of 
offending them, (representing as they did the circumcision,) he withdrew 
from all social intercourse with the Gentiles. Paul, apprehensive of disas- 
trous consequences, and believing that Peter was infringing upon a great 
principle, says that he “ withstood Peter to the face, because he was to be 
blamed.” Gal. ii, 11-14. This controversy did not destroy their brotherly 
communion, which continued to the end of Peter’s life. 2 Pet. iii, 15, 16. 
(6) Close of History. Peter was probably employed for the most part in 
building up and completing the organization of Christian communities in 
Palestine and the adjoining districts. There is, however, strong reason to 
believe that he visited Corinth at an early period. The name of Peter as 
founder, or joint founder, is not associated with any local church save those 
of Corinth, Antioch, or Rome, by early ecclesiastical tradition. From 
1 Pet. v, 13, 14, it is probable that Peter either visited or resided for some 
time at Babylon, and that Mark was with him there when he wrote that 
epistle. “ It may be considered as a settled point that he did not visit 
Rome before the last year of his life. The evidence for his martyrdom 
there is complete, while there is a total absence of any contrary statement 
in the writings of the early fathers. Clement of Rome, writing before the 
end of the first century, speaks of it, but does not mention the place , that 
being, of course, well known to his readers. Ignatius, in the undoubtedly 
genuine epistle to the Romans, (chap, iv,) speaks of Peter in terms which 
imply a special connection with their church. In the second century 
Dionysius of Corinth, in the Epistle to Soter, bishop of Rome, (ap. Euseb., 
II. E., ii, 25,) states, as a fact universally known and accounting for the in- 
timate relations between Corinth and Rome, that Peter and Paul both taught 
in Italy, and suffered martyrdom about the same time. In short, the 
churches most nearly connected with Rome, and those least affected by its 
influence, which was as yet but inconsiderable in the East, concur in the 
statement that Peter was a joint founder of that church, and suffered death 
in that city. The time and manner of the apostle’s martyrdom are less cer- 
tain. The early writers imply, or distinctly state, that he suffered at or 
about the same time with Paul, and in the Neronian persecution. All agree 
that he was crucified. Origen says that at his own request he was cruci- 
fied with his head downward.” — Smith, Dictionary, s. v. 


PETHAHIAH — PEULTHAI. 


4S1 


3. Character. Among the leading characteristics of Peter were : “ De- 
votion to his Master’s person, (John xiii, 37 ;) even leading him into extrav- 
agance, (John xiii, 9 ;) and an energetic disposition, which showed itself 
sometimes as boldness (Matt, xiv, 29) and temper. John xviii, 10. His tem- 
perament was choleric, and he easily passed from one extreme to another. 
John xiii, 8, 9.” — (M’Clintock and Strong, Cyclopcedia , s. v. “The contrast 
between the Peter of the gospels — impulsive, unsteadfast, slow of heart to 
understand the mysteries of the kingdom — and the same apostle as he meets 
us in the Acts, firm and courageous, ready to go to prison and to death, the 
preacher of the faith, the interpreter of Scripture, is one of the most con- 
vincing proofs of the power of Christ’s resurrection and the mighty working 
of the pentecostal gift.” — E. H. Plumptre, Bible Educator , vol. iv, p. 129. 

Difficulties— ( 1) Peter’s prominence as an Apostle. By consulting Matt, 
xvii, 1 ; Mark ix, 1 ; xiv, 33, we learn that Peter was among the most beloved of 
Christ’s disciples. Sometimes he speaks in the name of the twelve, (Matt, xix, 27 ; 
Luke xii, 41 ;) sometimes he answers when questions are addressed to them all, 
(Matt, xvi, 16 ; Mark viii, 29 ;) sometimes Jesus addresses him in place of them all. 
Matt, xxvi, 40. His eminence among the apostles depended partly on the fact that 
he was chosen among the first, and partly on his own peculiar traits. This position 
became more decided after the ascension of Jesus, and perhaps in consequence of 
the saying in John xxi, 15, sq. The early Church regarded him as the representa- 
tive of the apostolic body— a very distinct theory from that which makes him their 
head or governor in Christ’s stead. Primus inter pares, Peter held no distinct of- 
fice, and certainly never claimed any powers which did not belong equally to all 
of his fellow-apostles. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopcedia , s. v.) (2) The rock. 
“ Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church,” etc. “ The expres- 
sion, this rock upon which I will build my church, has received very different 
interpretations ... in various ages. The first is the construction given by the 
Church of Rome. ... It affirms that the rock is Peter individually, that the com- 
mission constituted him supreme apostle, with authority, inherited from him by 
the bishops of Rome. But, 1. As may be shown, not Peter alone, but each apostle, 
was a rock and a recipient of tbe keys, and all were coequal in powers. 2. Were 
the authority conveyed to Peter alone and personally, it must still be shown that 
this personal prerogative wa3 among the successional attributes conferred upon 
him. 3. That Peter was ever bishop of Rome is without historical foundation ; 
and the pretense of a succession from him by tbe Romish bishop is a fable. ... I 
understand that it is the apostle himself who is the rock ; yet not as a man, nor 
as a private confessor of the Saviour’s Messiahship, nor as Lord of the apostolic 
twelve, but as a specimen and representative of what all the twelve were.” 
— Whedon. 

PETHAHI'AH, (Heb. Pethachyah ', HTtriS), freed by Jehovah.) 

1. A priest, head of the nineteenth course in the reign of David. 1 Chron. 
xxiv, 16. B. C. about 1015. 

2. A Levite in the time of Ezra, who had married a foreign wife. Ezra 
x, 23. He is probably the same who is mentioned in -Neh. ix, 5. B. C. 
about 445. 

3. The son of Meshezabeel, and descendant of Zerah, who was counsel- 
or of King Artaxerxes in matters relating to the Jews. Nell, xi, 24. B. 0. 
445. 

PETHU'EL, (Heb. Pethuel ', man [or engraving ] of God,) the 

father of the prophet Joel. Joel i, 1. B. C. before 800. 

PEUI/THAI, (Heb. Peullethay ', my wages,) the eighth-named sou 

of Obed-edom, a Levite, and one of the porters of the tabernacle in the 
reign of David. 1 Chron. xxvi, 5. B. C. about 1015. 


432 


PHALEC— PHARAOH 


PHA'LEC, (Gr. «J>a/U/c,) a Grecized form (Luke iii, 35) of the name of 
Peleg, (q. v.) 

PHAI/LU, (Gen. xlvi, 9.) See Pallu. 

FHAI/TI, (Heb. Palti ', my deliverance ,) the son of Laish of Gal- 

lim, to whom Saul gave Michal in marriage after he had driven away David. 
1 Sam. xxv, 44. B. C. about 1060. The only other reference to him is 
when Michal was restored to David, “And her husband went with her 
along weeping behind her to Bahurim. Then said Abner unto him, Go re- 
turn. And he returned.” 2 Sam. iii, 15, 16, where he is called Phaltiel. 
B. C. about 1048. 

PHAI/TIEL, (Heb. PaltieV, deliverance of God,) the son-in-law 

of Saul, (2 Sam. iii, 15 ;) elsewhere called Phalti, (q. v.) 

PHANU'EL, (Gr. $avovr]\ probably for Penuel, face of God,) an Asher- 
ite, and father of Anna the prophetess. Luke ii, 36. B. C. about 80. 

FHA'RAOH, the common title of the kings of Egypt in the Bible. The 
name (Heb. Paroh', njns) is derived from the Egyptian word Pire, or 

Phre, the sun. It “was probably given in the earliest times to the Egyp- 
tian kings as being the chief on earth, as the sun was the chief among the 
heavenly bodies, and afterward, when this luminary became the object of 
idolatrous worship, as the representation or incarnation of their sun-god Plira 
or RA” — Wilkinson, Ancient Egypt , iv, 267. “ ‘ Son of the sun ’ was the 
title of every Pharaoh, and the usual comparison made by the priesthood of 
their monarchs when returning from a successful war was that his power 
was exalted in the world as the sun was in the heavens.” — Wilkinson, i, 
400 ; iv, 288. Of these Pharaohs there are several mentioned in the Bible. 

1. The Pharaoh of Abraham. 1. Identification. By Smith ( Dictionary , s. v.) 
this Pharaoh is identified with Salatis, the head of the fifteenth dynasty, and 
by Dr. Strong (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia , s. v.) with Binothris of 
the second (Thinitic) dynasty. 2. History. The first Pharaoh of Scripture 
is mentioned in connection with Abraham’s visit to Egypt. The beauty of 
Sarai, Abraham’s wife, was reported to Pharaoh, and he, believing the state- 
ment of the patriarch that she was his sister, took her to his house. “ He 
entreated Abraham well for her sake,” presenting him with cattle and slaves. 
God interfered and smote Pharaoh and his house with great plagues, which 
were accepted as punishment from Jehovah. The king restored Sarai to 
Abraham untouched, chided him for his untruth, and told him to depart, 
appointing an escort to conduct him out of the land, with his wife and pos- 
sessions. Gen. xii, 15-20. B. C. about 1920, (2081.) 

2. The Pharaoh of Joseph. 1. Identification. There is great difficulty in 
determining who this Pharaoh was. He is identified by Wilkinson with 
Isirtesen I., one of the kings of his sixteenth dynasty of Tanites, and is de- 
cidedly of the opinion that he was not a shepherd king. {Egypt, i, 42, 43.) 
Bunsen prefers to identify him with Osirtesen III, of the seventeenth dy- 
nasty of Memphites, and declares him to be the Sesostris of classical writers. 
Josephus says that he was a shepherd. Smith ( Dictionary , s. v.) accepts 
the statement of Eusebius that the Pharaoh to whom Jacob went was the 
Shepherd Apophis, of the fifteenth dynasty, who, he says, appears to have 
ruled from the time of Joseph’s appointment (or perhaps somewhat earlier) 


PHARAOH. 


43 $ 


Until Jacob’s death. Strong (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia , s. v.) does 
not think that this Pharaoli was one of the shepherd kings, and is inclined 
to identify him with one of the eighth (Mempliitic) dynasty, whose names are 
unrecorded. 2. Rule, etc. The state of religion during the reign of this 
Pharaoh seems to have been less corrupt than at the time of Moses. Jeho- 
vah seems to have been recognized as God, although symbolic worship had 
been introduced. His government was doubtless absolute, (Gen. xli, 40-43,) 
and yet he seems to have been a wise and prudent monarch, anxious for the 
welfare of his people. His capital was near Goshen, (Gen. xlv, 10,) and the 
civilization and prosperity of Egypt during his reign was very great. (Wil- 
kinson, i, 43.) 

3. The Pharaoh of the persecution. 1 . Identification. Wilkinson supposes 
him to have been Amosis, (or Ames,) the first of the eighteenth dynasty of 
Theban (or Diospolitan) kings. Lord Prudlioe argues that he was Rame- 
sis I. : while according to Manetho the new king was Tethmosis , (Thothmes.) 
But all is now matter of conjecture. 2. Reign. During his reign the Is- 
raelites were sorely oppressed, the king fearing, doubtless, that in case of 
war they would make common cause with his enemies, and then remove 
from Egypt. The first measure adopted against them (Exod. i, 11) was to 
appoint task-masters over them, and by hard labor to break down their 
physical strength and prevent their increase. As this plan did not accom- 
plish his purpose, Pharaoh proceeded to a bloody act of cruel despotism, 
namely, the destruction at birth of all the male children of the Israelites. 
This second plan proving a failure, the king commanded that every Hebrew 
boy that was born should be thrown into the river Nile. Exod. i, 15-22. It 
was his daughter who found and adopted Moses. Exod. ii, 5-10. . 

4. The Pharaoh of Moses’s exile. This Pharaoh was probably another 
person than the preceding, as otherwise he must have reigned over forty 
years, which is an unusual length. When Moses was forty years of age 
he slew an Egyptian whom he saw beating a Hebrew, and when Pharaoh 
heard of it he sought to slay Moses. Exod. ii, 11-15. That this was not 
the same person is confirmed by intimation in Exod. iv, 19, which seems to 
tell us that the Pharaoh who sought Moses’s life lived nearly to the time of 
his return to Egypt, which would make his reign over eighty years. 

5. The Pharaoh of the Exodus. 1 Identification. It is impossible to 
identify this Pharaoh, and, therefore, nothing more can be done than to give 
the various opinions. Wilkinson supposes him to have been Thothmes III, 
the fourth or fifth monarch of the eighteenth dynasty of the Theban or Di- 
ospolitan kings ; Manetho, according to Africanus, makes him to have been 
Amos, the first of that line of kings ; while Lord Prudhoe identifies him 
with Pthamen , the last of that dynast}'. 2. History. When Moses and 
Aaron appeared before Pharaoh, asking him to let the Hebrews go into the 
desert and sacrifice unto Jehovah, he refused, and commanded his task- 
masters to exact the tale of bricks as before, and oblige the people to fur- 
nish their own straw. He hardened his heart to all the evidence, furnished 
by the plagues, of God’s power and purpose to deliver Israel ; and followed 
up his reluctant consent to their departure by an effort to bring them back 
by force of arms. Exod. v-xiv. His acts prove him to have been a man 
at once impious and superstitious, alternately rebelling and submitting. 
Whether he was drowned with his army in the Red Sea is not stated in the 
narrative, although another passage (Psa. cxxxvi, 15) appears to confirm it. 


434 


PHARAOH. 


6. The father-in-law of Hadad. 1 . Identification. Although we have 
chronological indications, and the name of this Pharaoh’s wife, to aid in 
identifying him, yet unfortunately the history of Egypt at this time is so 
obscure that we have not clear information as to its kings. The probability 
is that the Pharaohs of the time of David and Solomon were Tanites ; and, 
if we take the numbers of Eusebius, Osochor is probably the Pharaoh in 
question, while according to Africanus he would be Psusennes I. 2. Script- 
ure notice. Some time during the reign of David, Hadad the Edomite, and 
David’s bitter enemy, fled to Egypt, where he was received with distinction 
by Pharaoh, who gave him for wife the sister of Tahpenes, the queen. 

1 Kings xi, 14-19. B. C. before 1015. He is probably different from 

7. The father-in-law of Solomon. The daughter of this Pharaoh was 
married to Solomon not later than the eleventh year of his reign, when the 
temple was finished, having been commenced in the fourth year. 1 Kings 
vi, 1, 37, 38. Mention is made (1 Kings ix, 16) of an expedition led by him 
against the city of Gezer, which he gave to his daughter, the wife of Solo- 
mon. It is probable that she was a convert to the faith of Solomon, as at 
this period of his life he would hardly have married an idolatress. 

8. The father-in-law of Mered. In 1 Chron. iv, 18, mention is made of a 
Pharaoh whose daughter Bithiah was married to Mered, an Israelite. The 
date of this marriage is uncertain, being fixed by some at the time of the 
exode, while others bring down this event to the times of or near those of 
David. “ The most interesting feature connected with this transaction is 
the name, Bithiah, (daughter of Jehovah,) given to the daughter of Pha- 
raoh. It exhibits the true faith of Israel as exerting its influence abroad, 
and gathering proselytes even in the royal house of idolatrous Egypt.” 

9. Pharaoh, the opponent of Sennacherib. This Pharaoh can only be the 
Sethos mentioned by Herodotus as the opponent of Sennacherib, and may be 
reasonably supposed to be the Zet of Manetho, the last king of the twenty- 
third dynasty. He reigned in the fourteenth year of Hezekiah, B. C. about 
713, and was the contemporary of Tirhakah, king of Ethiopia, and of Sen- 
nacherib, king of Assyria. Isa. xxxvi, 6. 

10. Pharaoh-Necho, (Heb. Neko', 123 , and Nek' oh, H33.) 1. Identification. 

This Pharaoh was of the Saite twenty-sixth dynasty, of which Manetho 
makes him either the fifth ruler (Africanus) or the sixth, (Eusebius.) He- 
rodotus calls him Nekos, and assigns to him a reign of sixteen years, which 
is confirmed by the monuments. 2. History. Pharaoh-Necho was king of 
Egypt during the reigns of Josiah, Jehoahaz, and Jehoiakim, kings of Ju- 
dah. 2 Kings xxiii, 29-34. B. C. 600-607, and probably for some time after. 

2 Kings xxiv, 7. “ He seems to have been an enterprising king, as he is re- 

lated to have attempted to complete the canal connecting the Red Sea with 
the Nile, and to have sent an expedition of Phenicians to circumnavigate 
Africa, which was successfully accomplished. At the commencement of his 
reign (B. C. 610) he made war against the king of Assyria, and. being en- 
countered on his way by Josiah, defeated and slew the king of Judah at 
Megiddo. 2 Kings xxiii, 29, 30 ; 2 Chron. xxxv, 20-24. Necho seems to 
have soon returned to Egypt ; perhaps he was on his way thither when he 
deposed Jehoahaz. The army was probably posted at Carchemish, and was 
there defeated by Nebuchadnezzar in the fourth year of Necho, (B. C. 607,) 
that king not being, as it seems, then at its head. Jer. xlvi, 1, 2, 6, 10. This 


SHARES — PHILETtiS. 435 

battle led to the loss of all the Asiatic dominions of Egypt. 2 Kings xxiv, 7.” 
— Smith, Dictionary , s. v. 

11. Pharaoh-Hophra. 1. Identification. This Pharaoh is generally thought 
to be the Apries mentioned by Herodotus, and called Vaphres by Manetho. 
2. History. The Scriptures introduce him as in intimate alliance with Zed- 
ekiah, whom he aided against Nebuchadnezzar. Jer. xliv, 30. Josephus 
(Ant.,' x, 7, 3) states that Nebuchadnezzar, on hearing of the march of the 
Egyptians, broke up from before Jerusalem, met the Egyptians, conquered 
them in battle, drove them out of Syria, and then returned to the siege of 
Jerusalem. It is certain that Nebuchadnezzar laid siege to Jerusalem in 
the ninth year of Zedekiah, and took it in the eleventh year. Jer. xxxix, 1. 
It is probable (Jer. xxxvii, 7) that on hearing of Nebuchadnezzar’s approach 
with his entire army, Pharaoh retired from the contest, and left Jerusa- 
lem to its fate. His overthrow was predicted by Jeremiah. Jer. xxxiii, 10 ; 
xliv, 30. No subsequent Pharaoh is mentioned in Scripture, but there are 
predictions doubtless referring to the misfortunes of later princes until the 
second Persian conquest, when the prophecy “ There shall be no more a 
prince of the land of Egypt ” (Exod. xxx, 13) was fulfilled. 

PHA'RES, (Matt, i, 3 ; Luke iii, 33.) See Pharez. 

PHA'REZ, (Heb. Pe'retz, JH5), breach ,) a twin son (with Zarah) of Ju- 
dah by Tamar, his daughter-in-law. Gen. xxxviii, 29 ; 1 Chron. ii, 4. B. 0. 
about 1727. Little is known of his personal history, although his family is 
often mentioned. He and his brethren were numbered among the sons of 
Judah, (Gen. xlvi, 12,) and after the death of Er and Onan he is named as 
the second son. Num. xxvi, 20. His family was very numerous, as is shown 
in Ruth iv, 12 : “ Let thy house be like the house of Pharez, whom Tamar 
bare unto Judah.” His descendants were notable in the time of David 
(1 Chron. xi, 11, etc.; xxvii, 2, 3) and after the captivity. 1 Chron. ix, 4; 
Nell, xi, 4-6. In several of these passages he is called Perez. 

PHE'BE, (Gr. radiant ,) a deaconess of the Church at Cenchrea 

commended by Paul to the Church of Rome, who had been a recipient of 
her kindness. Rom. xvi, 1, 2. A. D. 60, (55.) She seems to have been on 
the eve of setting out for Rome on some important business, the nature of 
which is unknown. 

PHFCOL, (Heb. Pikol', mouth of all , or strength ,) chief captain of 

the army of Abimelech, the Philistine king of Gerar. Gen. xxi, 22, 32 ; 
xxvi, 26. B. C. about 1892. 

PHILE'MON, (Gr. $ihr}(iuv, affectionate ,) a member of the Church of 
Colossse, who owed his conversion to the apostle Paul, for such is the in- 
terpretation generally assigned to the words aeavrov poi npoaotyEiXeic. Phile- 
mon 19. To him Paul addressed his epistle in behalf of Onesimus. His char- 
acter, as given in that letter, was one of great nobility. The apostle com- 
mends his faith and love, his benevolence and hospitality, his docile, sym- 
pathizing, and forgiving spirit. His house at Colossae was shown in the 
time of Theodoret, and tradition represents him as bishop of that city, and 
as having suffered martyrdom. 

FHILE'TUS, (4>a?7rof, beloved ,) an apostate Christian named in connec- 
tion with Hymemeus (2 Tim. ii, 17) as holding false views regarding the 


436 


PHILIP. 


resurrection. The apostle does not state their opinions, concerning which 
there have been many dissertations. Dean Ellicott ( Commentary , in loco ) 
says : “ The false asceticism which is so often tacitly alluded to and con- 
demned in these ep stles, led very probably to an undue contempt for the 
body, to false views of the nature of death, and thence to equally false 
views of the resurrection: death and resurrection were terms which had 
with these false teachers only a spiritual meaning and application ; tliey al- 
legorized the doctrine, arid turned all into figure and metaphor.” The names 
of Philetus and Hymenaeus occur separately among those of Caasar’s house- 
hold whose relics have been found in the Columbaria at Rome. 

PHIL/IP. 1. 1. Name and Family. (Gr. QIIutckoc, lover of horses.) 
Philip was, we are told, of the city of Bethsaida, (John i, 44; xii, 21,) but 
of his family we have no information. 

2. Personal History. Little is recorded of Philip in the Scriptures. 

(1) Call. He had probably gone with Andrew and Peter to hear the preach- 
ing of John the Baptist. They had, without doubt, spoken to him of Jesus 
as the long-expected Saviour, for on the next day after Andrew brought 
his brother Simon to Jesus, Philip unhesitatingly complied with the Master's 
request to follow him. John i, 41-43. He was thus the fourth of the apos- 
tles who attached themselves to the person of Jesus. (2) Invites Nathan- 
ael. The first act of Philip was to invite Nathanael to “ come and see ” 
Jesus, saying, “ We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the 
prophets, aid write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Chap, i, 45-47. 
(3) Ordained Apostle. When the twelve were specially set apart for their 
office, Philip was numbered among them. Matt, x, 3 ; Mark iii, 18 ; Luke 
vi, 14. (4) Other Incidents. When Jesus was about to feed the five thou- 

sand he asked Philip, “ Whence shall we buy bread that these may eat? ” 
And it is added, “ This he said to prove him.” John vi, 5-7. Bengel and 
others suppose that this was because the charge of providing food had 
been committed to Philip, while Chrysostom and Theodore of Mopsuestia 
rather suppose it was because this apostle was weak in faith. The answer 
of Philip agreed well enough with either supposition. (Kitto.) Certain 
Greeks, desiring to see Jesus, made application to Philip for an introduction. 
Philip, uncertain at first whether to comply with their request or not, con- 
sulted with Andrew, who went with him, and mentioned the circumstance 
to Jesus. John xii, 21, 22. The sacred history adds only the remark of 
Philip, “ Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us,” (John xiv, 8,) and 
refers to his presence at Jerusalem with the Church after the ascension. 
Acts i, 13. The later traditions concerning this apostle are vague and un- 
certain ; but there is nothing improbable in the statement that he preached 
the Gospel in Phrygia, and that he met his death at Hieropolis in Syria. 
(Kitto.) 

3. Character. Philip seems to have been of a cool, calm, deliberative 
nature; not acting from impulse, but judgment, (John xii, 21;) to have 
been slow of faith, and not readily apprehending spiritual things. Chap, 
xiv, 8. 

2. The evangelist. Of his family antecedents nothing is known. Per- 
sonal History. (1) As Deacon. We first hear of Philip in his appoint- 
ment as one of the seven deacons, his name following Stephen in the list. 
Acts vi, 5. They were appointed to superintend the daily ministration of 
food and alms, and so remove all suspicion of partiality. The persecution 


PHILIP — PHINEHAS. 


437 


that followed the death of Stephen stopped the “ daily ministrations ” of the 
Church. The teachers who had been most prominent were compelled to 
take flight, and Philip was among them. (2) Encounters Simon Magus. 
Philip found his way to the city of Samaria, where Simon Magus practiced 
sorcery. The latter was held in great reverence because of the wonders he 
wrought. Philip performed many substantial miracles, and thus drew away 
from the sorcerer the attention of the people, who listened gladly to the 
preaching of the Gospel. Simon himself seems to have regarded Philip as 
in league with some superhuman being, and looking upon baptism as the in- 
itiatory rite through which he might obtain the same powers; he solicited and 
obtained baptism from the evangelist. Acts viii, 5-13. (3) Teaches the Eunuch. 
After Peter and John had come to Samaria to complete the work begun by 
Philip, he was directed by the angel of the Lord to proceed to Gaza. On the 
way he met the treasurer of Candace, queen of Ethiopia, who had come to Je- 
rusalem to worship. The eunuch was reading Isa. liii, when Philip drew near 
to his chariot and asked him if lie understood that which he read. Upon 
invitation Philip took a seat and expounded the Scripture, preaching Jesus, 
the result of which was the conversion and baptism of the eunuch. Upon 
the return from the water in which the baptism occurred “ the Spirit of the 
Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more.” Philip con- 
tinued his work as a preacher at Azotus, (Ashdod,) and among the other 
cities that had formerly belonged to the Philistines, and, following the coast 
line, came to Cesarea. Acts viii, 26-40. (4) Later Incidents. For a num- 

ber of years (estimated from fifteen to nineteen) we lose sight of the evan- 
gelist. The last glimpse we have of him in the New Testament is in the 
account of St. Paul’s journey to Jerusalem. At his house the great apostle 
and his companions tarry for many days. The four daughters of Philip, 
“ virgins which did prophesy,” and Agabus, who prophesied of Paul’s dan- 
ger from the Jews, are mentioned in the narrative. Acts xxi, 8, sq. The 
traditions concerning Philip are conflicting and uncertain. The Greek 
martyrologies make him to have been bishop of Tralles, in Lydia; but the 
Latins make him end his days in Cesarea. (Kitto, Smith.) 

PHII/IP, Herod, (Matt, xiv, 3, etc.) See Herod, No. 3. 

PHII/IP, the tetrarch, (Luke iii, 1.) See Herod, No. 4. 

PHILOI/OGUS, (Gr. 4uAoAoyof, fond of talk,) a Christian at Home to 
whom St. Paul sends his salutation. Rom. xvi, 15. Pseudo Hippolytus 
makes him one of the seventy disciples, and bishop of Sinope. His name is 
found in the Columbarium “ of the freedmen of Livia Augusta” at Rome, 
which shows that there was a Philologus connected with the imperial house- 
hold at the time when it included many Julias. 

PHIN'EHAS, (Heb. Pinechas', Dn^Q, mouth of brass.) 

1. A grandson of Aaron, and son of Eleazar by his wife, “ one of the 
daughters of Putiel.” Exod. vi, 25. B. C. about 1530. He first appears in 
Scripture history at the time of the licentious idolatry, where his zeal and 
action secured the cessation of the plague that was destroying the nation. 
Num. xxv, 7-11. B. C. 1452. For this he was rewarded by the special 
approbation of Jehovah, and by a promise that the priesthood should remain 
in his family forever. Vers. 10-13. He was appointed to accompany as 
priest the expedition by which the Midianites were destroyed. Chap, xxxi, 6. 


438 


PHLEGON — PILATE. 


Seven years later he also headed the party who were dispatched from Shi- 
loh to remonstrate against the altar which the trans-Jordanic tribes were 
reported to have built near Jordan. Josh, xxii, 13-32. In the partition of 
the country he received an allotment of his own — a hill on Mount Ephraim 
whicn bore his name — Gibeath-Pinechas. Here his father was buried. Josh, 
xxiv, 33. Phinehas appears to have been the chief of the Korahites, (or 
Korhites.) 1 Chron. ix, 20. After the death of Eleazar he became high- 
priest, (the third of the series,) in which capacity he is introduced as giving 
the oracle to the Dation during the whole struggle with the Benjamites on 
the matter of Gibeah. Judg. xx, 28. The verse which closes the Book of 
Joshua is ascribed to Phinehas, as the description of the death of Moses at 
the end of Deuteronomy is to Joshua. The tomb of Phinehas, a place of 
great resort to both Jews and Samaritans, is shown at Aweriah, four miles 
south-east of Nablus. 

Character. The narrative of the Pentateuch presents Phinehas as an 
ardent and devoted priest, while in one of the Psalms (cvi, 30, 31) he is 
commemorated in the identical phrase which is consecrated forever by its 
use in reference to the great act of faith of Abraham — “ that was counted to 
him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore.” Compare Gen. 
xv, 6 ; Rom. iv, 3. 

2. Second sou of Eli. 1 Sam. i, 3 ; ii, 34; iv, 4, 11, 17, 19 ; xiv, 3. Phin- 
ehas was killed with his brother by the Philistines when the ark was cap- 
tured. B. C. 1171-1 141. 

3. A Levite of Ezra’s time, (Ezra viii, 33,) unless the meaning be that 
Eleazar was of the family of the great Phinehas. 

PHLE'GON, (Gr. burning ,) a Christian at Rome to whom Paul 

sent salutations. Rom. xvi, 14. A. D. 60, (55.) Pseudo-Hippolytus states 
that he was one of the seventy disciples and bishop of Marathon. 

PHCEBE. See Phebe. 

FHU'RAH, (Heb. Pur ah', n"lQ, bough,) the servant of Gideon, who went 

with him by night when he visited the camp of the Midianites. Judg. vii, 
10, 11. B. C. 1249. 

FHU'VAH, (Heb. Puvvah', ma, mouth,) one of the sons of Issachar. Gen. 

xlvi, 13. B. C. about 17 06. The name is given as “ Pua ” (Num. xxvi, 23) and 
“ Puah.” 1 Chron. vii, 1. His descendants were called Punites. Num. xxvi, 23. 

PHYGEL'LUS, (Gr. perhaps a fugitive ,) (2 Tim. i, 15,) a 

Christian connected with those in Asia of whom St. Paul speaks as turned 
away from himself. It is open to question whether their repudiation of 
the apostle was joined with a declension from the faith, and whether the 
open display of the feeling of Asia took place — at least so far as Phygellus 
and Hermogenes were concerned — at Rome. Phygellus may have forsaken 
(see 2 Tim. iv, 16) the apostle at some* critical time when his support was 
expected ; or he may have been a leader of some party of nominal Chris- 
tians at Rome, such as the apostle describes at an earlier period (Phil, i, 
15, 16) opposing him there. (Smith, Dictionary, s. v.) 

PI'LATE, Pontius, the Roman procurator of Judea. 

1. Name. Pilate’s family name, Pontius , indicates that he was connected, 
by descent or adoption, with the gens of Pontii. His cognomen Pilatus may 


PILATE. 439 

have been derived from pilatus , armed with pilum, (or javelin,) or pileatus , 
the pileus (or cap) being the badge of manumitted slaves. 

2. Personal History. (1) Early History. The early history of Pilate 
is unknown, save some unreliable traditions. A German legend relates that 
he was an illegitimate son of Tyrus, king of Mayence, who sent him to 
Rome as a hostage. There he committed a murder and was sent to Pontus, 
where he subdued the barbarous tribes, receiving in consequence the name 
of Pontius, and was sent to Judea. (2) Procurator. Pilate was appointed 
governor of Judea by Tiberius, (A. D. 26,) and immediately offended the 
Jews by removing the head-quarters of his army from Cesarea to Jerusa- 
lem. The soldiers, of course, took with them their standards, bearing the 
image of the emperor, into the holy city. The sight of these standards 
planted within sight of the temple greatly enraged the people, who de- 
clared themselves ready rather to submit to death than to this idolatrous 
innovation. Pilate yielded to their demauds, and ordered the standards to 
be returned to Cesarea. (Josephus, Ant., xviii, 3, 12 ; War, ii, 9, 2-4.) On 
two other occasions Pilate nearly drove the Jews to insurrection : the first, 
when he hung up golden shields, in his palace on Mount Zion, inscribed 
with the names of deities. These were only removed by an order from the 
emperor. The second, when he appropriated the revenue of the temple, 
arising from the redemption of vows, to the building of an aqueduct. To 
these acts must be added the slaughter of certain Galileans. Luke xiii, 1. 
(3) His Connection with Jesus. It was the custom for the procurators to 
reside at Jerusalem during the great feasts, to preserve order, and accord- 
ingly, at the time of our Lord’s last passover, Pilate was occupying his of- 
ficial residence in Herod’s palace ; and to the gates of this palace Jesus, 
condemned on the charge of blasphemy, was brought early in the morning 
by the chief priests and officers of the Sanhedrin, who were unable to enter 
the residence of a Gentile, lest they should be defiled and unfit to eat the 
passover. John xviii, 28. Pilate therefore came out to learn their purpose, 
and demanded the nature of the charge. At first they seem to have ex- 
pected that he would have carried out their wishes without further inquiry, 
and therefore merely described our Lord as a disturber of the public peace ; 
but as a Roman procurator had too much respect for justice, or at least un- 
derstood his business too well to consent to such a condemnation, they were 
obliged to devise a new charge, and therefore interpreted our Lord’s claims 
in a political sense, accusing. him of assuming the royal title, perverting the 
nation, and forbidding the payment of tribute to Rome. Luke xxiii, 3 — an 
account plainly presupposed in John xviii, 33. It is plain that from this 
moment Pilate was distracted between two conflicting feelings : a fear of 
offending the Jews, and a conscious conviction that Jesus was innocent. 
Moreover, this last feeling was strengthened by his own hatred of the Jews, 
whose religious scruples had caused him frequent trouble, and by a grow- 
ing respect for the calm dignity and meekness of the sufferer. First he 
examined our Lord privately, and asked him whether he was a king. At 
the close of the interview he came out to the Jews and declared the pris- 
oner innocent. To this they replied that his teaching had stirred up all 
the people from Galilee to Jerusalem. The mention of Galilee suggested to 
Pilate a new way of escaping from his dilemma, by sending on the case to 
Herod Autipas; but Herod, though propitiated by this act of courtesy, 
declined to enter into the matter. So Pilate was compelled to come to a 


440 


PILATE. 


decision, and first having assembled the chief priests and also the people, he 
announced to them that the accused had done nothing worthy of death ; but 
at the same time, in hopes of pacifying the Sanhedrin, he proposed to 
scourge him before lie released him. But as the accusers were resolved to 
have his blood, they rejected this concession, and therefore Pilate had re- 
course to a fresh expedient. It was the custom for the Roman governor to 
grant every year, in honor of the passover, pardon to one condemned crim- 
inal. Pilate therefore offered the people their choice between two, the mur- 
derer Barabbas, and the prophet whom a few days before they had hailed as 
the Messiah. To receive their decision he ascended the /%/a, ( Bema ,) a port- 
able tribunal placed on the Gabbatha , a tessellated pavement in front of the 
palace. As soon as he was seated he received a message from his wife, who 
had “suffered many things in a dream,” urging him not to condemn the Just 
One. But he had no alternative, as the rabble, urged by the priests, chose 
Barabbas for pardon, and clamored for the death of Jesus ; insurrection 
seemed imminent, and Pilate yielded. Before issuing the fatal order he 
washed his hands before the multitude, as a sign that he was innocent of 
the crime, in imitation probably of the ceremony enjoined in Deut. xxi. As 
it produced no effect, Pilate ordered his soldiers to inflict the scourging 
preparatory to execution; but the sight of unjust suffering so patiently 
borne seems again to have troubled his conscience, and prompted a new 
effort in favor of the victim. But the priests only renewed their clamors 
for his death, and, fearing that the political charge of treason might be con- 
sidered insufficient, returned to their first accusation of blasphemy, and, 
quoting the law of Moses, (Lev. xxiv,16,) which punished blasphemy with 
stoning, declared that lie must die “ because he made himself the Son of 
God.” But this title augmented Pilate’s superstitious fears, already aroused 
by his wife’s dream, (John xix, 7 ;) he feared that Jesus might be one of 
the heroes or demigods of his own mythology ; he took him again into the 
palace and inquired anxiously into his descent (“ Whence art thou ? ”) and 
his claims. The result of this interview was one last effort to save Jesus 
by a fresh appeal to the multitude ; but now arose the formidable cry, “ If 
thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar’s friend and Pilate, to whom 
political success was as the breath of life, again ascended the tribunal, and 
finally pronounced the desired condemnation. So ended Pilate’s share in 
the greatest crime which has been committed since the world began. 
(4) Later History. Scripture gives us no further information concerniug 
Pilate, but we learn from Josephus that his anxiety to avoid giving offense 
to Caesar did not save him from political disaster. The Samaritans were 
unquiet and rebellious. Pilate led his troops against them, and defeated 
them easily enough. The Samaritans complained to Vitellius, now presi- 
dent of Syria, and he sent Pilate to Rome to answer their accusations be- 
fore the emperor. When he reached it he found Tiberius dead, and Caius 
(Caligula) on the throne. A. D. 36. Eusebius adds that soon afterward, 
“ wearied with misfortunes,” he kdled himself. As to the scene of his death 
there are various traditions. One is that he was banished to Vienna Allo- 
brogum, (Vienne on the Rhone,) where a singular monument — a pyramid 
on a quadrangular base, fifty-two feet high — is called Pontius Pilate’s tomb. 
Another is that he sought to hide liis sorrows on the mountain by the lake 
of Lucerne, now called Mount Pilatus ; and there, after spending years in 
its recesses, in remorse and despair rather than penitence, plunged into the 


PILDASH— PITHOX. 


441 


dismal lake which occupies its summit. We learn from Justin Martyr, 
Tertullian, Eusebius, and others, that Pilate made an official report to Ti- 
berius of our Lord’s trial and condemnation; and in a homily ascribed to 
Chrysostom, though marked as spurious by his Benedictine editors, {Horn. 
viii, in Pasch ., vol. viii, p. 968, D,) certain inroyvr/uaTa {Acta, or Commentarii 
Pilati) are spoken of as well-known documents in common circulation. The 
Acta Pilati , , now extant in Greek, and two Latin epistles from him to the 
emperor, are certainly spurious. 

3. Character. Pilate seems to have been a representative of the rich 
and corrupt Romans of his age ; a worldly-minded statesman, not insensible 
to justice and mercy, and yet who lived exclusively in the life that now is. 
His desire was, doubtless, to save our Lord, but his own security and com- 
fort would thereby have been interfered with. He. was too selfish to suffer 
personal annoyance, and “ the unrighteous condemnation of a good man 
was a trifle in comparison with the fear of the emperor’s frown and the 
loss of place and power.” Destitute of any fixed principles, and having no 
aim but office and influence, Pilate seems to have consulted only the law of 
convenience, and to have done right only when it did not interfere with his 
selfish aims and purposes. Thus he yielded to the clamor o± the Jews and 
acted contrary to his sense of justice, for fear that they would accuse him 
to the emperor of disloyalty, and thus secure his deposition. (Smith, Dic- 
tionary , s. v.) 

PIL'DASH, (Heb. Pildasli ', £^3, perhaps flame of fire,) one of the 

eight sons of Nahor, Abraham’s brother, by his wife and niece, Milcah. 
Gen. xxii, 22. B. C. about 1872. 

FII/EHA, (Heb. Pilcha f, frsTI^S, a slice,) the chief of the people who 
signed the covenant with Nehemiah. Neh. x, 24. B. C. 445. 

PIL'TAI, (Heb. Piltay ', my deliverances ,) the representative of the 

priestly house of Moadiah, or Maadiah, in the time of Joiakim, the son of 
Jeshua, and apparently one of the priests who returned with Zerubbabel to 
Jerusalem. Neh. xii, 17. B. C. 536. 

FI'NON, (Heb. Pinon’, |r3,) one of the “dukes” (that is, head or 

founder of a tribe) of Edom. Gen. xxxvi, 41 ; 1 Chron. i, 52. B. C. about 
1492. 

PFRAM, (Heb. Piram', DK“lQ, tike a wild ass , that is, fleet,) the Amor- 

ite king of Jarmuth who, with four confederate kings, made war against 
Gibeon, and were defeated by Joshua. They fled to the cave at Makkedah, 
from which they were brought at the close of the battle and pursuit and 
hanged. Their bodies were taken down and cast “ into the cave wherein 
they had been hid.” Josh, x, 3-27. B. G. 1451. 

PIS'PAH, (Heb. Pispah ', nBDQ,) the second-named of the sons of Je- 
ther, of the tribe of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 38. 

PI'THON, (Heb. Pithon', jin'Q, perhaps harmless,) the eldest son of 

Micah, the grandson of Jonathan, the son of Saul. 1 Chron. viii, 35 ; ix, 41. 
B. C. after 1050. 

£8 


442 


POCHERETH— PUBLIUS. 


FOCHE'RETH, (Heb. PoJce'reth, rvDB, ensuring.) The “ children ” of 

Pochereth were among the number of “ Solomon’s servants ” who returned 
from the captivity with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 57 ; Neh. vii. 59. B. C. before 
■536. 

PON'TIUS, (Pilate.) See Pilate. 

FOR'ATHA, (Heb. Poratha', NJTiiQ, perhaps given by lot,) one of the 

ten sons of Haman slain by the Jews in the palace at Shushan. Esth. ix, 8. 
B. C. about 509. 

POR'CIUS, (Festus.) See Festus. 

POT'IPHAR, (Heb. Potiphar', “iDLDiB, contraction of JHQ 'LDiB, Poti- 

piierah, [q. v.,]) an Egyptian and an officer (“captain of the guard”) of 
Pharaoh. When Joseph was taken to Egypt Potiphar purchased him of 
the Midianite merchants. So favorably impressed did he become of the 
ability and fidelity of Joseph, that he made him overseer over his house, and 
committed all his possessions to his care. Upon the accusation of his wife 
Potiphar cast Joseph into prison. Gen. xxxix, 1-20. B. C. 1729. After 
this we hear no more of Potiphar, unless, which is not likely, be was the 
chief of the executioners afterward mentioned. 

POTIPH'ERAH, or POTIFHE'RAH, (Heb. Poti-phe'ra , jna ^iB, 

corresponding to the Coptic Pete-phrah , belonging to the sun,) an Egyptian and 
priest of On, (Heliopolis,) whose daughter Asenath was married to Joseph. 
Gen. xli, 45, 50 ; xlvi, 20. B. C. about 1715. 

FRISIA, (2 Tim. iv, 19.) See Priscilla. 

PRISCII/LA, (Gr. Upton ilia, diminutive form Latin Prisca , ancient ,) the 
wife of Aquila, (q. v.,) in connection with whom she is always mentioned. 
Acts xviii, 2, 18, 26 ; Rom. xvi, 3 ; 1 Cor. xvi, 19. She seems to have been 
in full accord with her husband in sustaining the “ Church in their house,” 
(1 Cor. xvi, 19,) in helping the apostle Paul, (Acts xviii, 18,) and in the 
theological teaching of Apollos. Yer. 26. 

FROCH'ORUS, (Gr. Upoxopoc,) the third on the list of deacons follow- 
ing Stephen and Philip. Acts vi, 5. A. D. 33, (30.) This is the only men- 
tion made of him in the New Testament. There is a tradition that lie was 
consecrated bishop of Nicomedia by St. Peter. 

PU'A, another form (Num. xxvi, 23) of Phuvah, (q. v.) 

PIT AH, the name in the Authorized Yersion of two men and one 
woman. 

1. (Heb. Puvvah pflB, 1 Chron. vii, 1.) See Phuvah. 

2. (Heb. Pu'ah, nYlBj probably splendid,) one of the two midwives to 

whom Pharaoh gave instructions to kill the Hebrew male children at their 
birth. Exod. i, 15. B. C. 1635. The two, Sbiphrah and Puah, are supposed 
to have been the chief and representatives of their profession. 

3. (Heb. Pu'&h, nX s B, perhaps mouth,) the father of Tola, who was of 

the tribe of Issachar and a judge of Israel. Judg. x, 1. B. C. before 1206. 

PUB'LIUS, the “chief man,” and probably governor of Melita, (or 
Malta,) who received and lodged Paul and his companions after their ship- 


PUDENS — RAB-MAO. 


448 


wreck. The apostle miraculously healed the father of Publius of a fever, 
and cured others who were brought to him. Acts xxviii, 7, 8. A. D. 62, 
(55.) The Roman martyrologies assert that he was the first bishop of the 
island, and afterward succeeded Dionysius as bishop of Athens. Jerome 
records a tradition that he was crowned with martyrdom. 

PU'DENS, a Christian at Rome who united with others in sending salu- 
tations to their friend Timothy. 2 Tim. iv, 21. A. D. 66, (64.) This is the 
only mention of him in Scripture. He is commemorated in the Byzantine 
Church on April 14, and in the Roman Church on May 19. He is included 
among the seventy disciples in the list given by Pseudo-Hippolytus. Pape- 
broch, the Bollandist editor, while printing the legendary histories, distin- 
guishes between two saints of this name, both Roman senators : one the 
host of St. Peter and friend of St. Paul, martyred under Hero ; the other, 
the grandson of the former, living about A. D. 150. Earlier writers are dis- 
posed to believe in the existence of one Pudens only. Modern researches 
among the Columbaria at Rome appropriated to members of the imperial 
household have brought to light an inscription in which the name of Pudens 
occurs as that of a servant of Tiberius or Claudius. Although the identity 
of Paul’s Pudens with any legendary or heathen namesake is uot abso- 
lutely proved, yet it is probable that these facts add something to our 
knowledge of the friend of Paul and Timothy. 

PUL, (Heb. same, lofty, hence lord,) the first Assyrian king men- 
tioned in the Bible. He made an expedition against Menahem, king of 
Israel, who submitted to him, and paid 1,000 talents of silver that he 
might “ be confirmed ” in his kingdom. 2 Kings xv, 19, 20 ; 1 Chron. v, 26. 
B. C. 771. 

PU'TIEL, (Heb. Putiel ' , afflicted of God,) the father of the wife 

of Eleazar the priest, and mother of Phinehas. Exod. vi, 25. B. C. about 
1530. 

QUAR'TUS, ( a fourth ,) a Christian of Corinth whose salutations Paul 
sent to the Church at Rome. Rom. xvi, 23. A. D. 60, (about 50.) There is 
the usual tradition that he was one of the seventy disciples ; and it is also 
said that he ultimately became bishop of Berytus. 

RA'AMAH, (Heb. Ramah', nDJT), a trembling ; poetically, a horse’s mane,) 

the fourth son of Cush and grandson of Ham. Gen. x, 7 ; 1 Chron. i, 9. 
B. C. after 2347. The tribe of Raamah became afterward renowned as 
traders. Ezek. xxvii, 22. Of the settlement of Raamah on the shores of the 
Persian Gulf there are several indications. Traces of Dedan are very faint ; 
but Raamah seem to be recovered in the Regma (Teypu) of Ptol., vi, 7, and 
•P ijyfia of Steph. Byzant. 

R A AMI' AH, (Heb. Raamyah', iTESTl, thunder of Jehovah ,) one of the 

leaders of the Jews who returned from captivity with Zerubbabel. Neh. 
vii, 7. B. C. about 445. In Ezra ii, 2, he is called Reealiah. 

RAB'-MAG, (Heb. Rab-mag , JEfZTi, chief magician , or priest) a title 

ascribed (Jer. xxxix, 3, 13) to Nergal-sharezer, (q. v.,) which title he ? 


444 


RAB-SAR1S — RACHEL. 


with certain other important personages, bears in the Babylonish in- 
scriptions. 

RAB'- SARIS, (Heb. same, D'HD"!"), chief eunuch, and probably the name 
of an officer rather than of a person.) 

1. One of the chief officers whom the king of Assyria sent up against 
Jerusalem in the time of Hezekiah. 2 Kings xviii, 17. B. C. 713. 

2. The name or title of one of the princes of Babylon who was present 
at the capture of Jerusalem, (Jer. xxxix, 3,) and was one of those sent by 
Nebuchadnezzar to deliver Jeremiah out of prison. Yer. 13. B. C. 588. 

RAB-SHA'KEH, (Heb. Rabshakeh ', npKQ^I, chief cup-bearer ,) the name 

(or title) given to one of the three Assyrian generals sent against Jerusalem 
by Sennacherib. 2 Kings xviii, 17; Isa. xxxvi, 2; xxxvii, 4. B. C. 710. 
Rab-shakeh addressed himself not only to the officers of Hezekiah, but also 
to the men on the wall of the city, setting forth the hopelessness of their 
trusting to any power, human or divine, to deliver them out of the hands of 
his master, and dwelling upon the advantages of submission. 2 Kings xviii, 
19-35. Receiving no promise of submission, Rab-shakeh returned to Sen- 
nacherib, whom he found warring against Libnah. Many have supposed, from 
the familiarity of Rab-shakeh with the Hebrew language, that he was a Jew- 
ish deserter or an apostate captive of Israel. 

RA'CHAB, (Matt, i, 5.) See Rahab. 

RA'CHEL, (Heb. Rachel ', ewe , sheep,) the younger daughter of 

Laban, and one of Jacob’s wives. 

1. Personal History. (1) Meeting with Jacob. When Jacob came to 
Haran he met some shepherds, who told him, in answer to his inquiries, 
that they knew Laban, and that Rachel was already coming to the well near 
by to water her father’s sheep. He rolled the stone from the well’s mouth, 
watered the sheep, greeted her with a kiss, and told Rachel who he was. 
Rachel then hastened to her father with the tidings of what had happeued. 
Gen. xxix, 1-12. B. C. 1760. (2) Jacob’s Wife. Laban received Jacob as 
his relative, and, after a month’s service, an agreement was entered into 
between them that Jacob should serve Laban seven years for his daughter 
Rachel. The motive on the part of Jacob was, doubtless, that his relations 
with Esau made a protracted stay with Laban advisable ; while Laban was 
probably influenced by his avarice. At the expiration of the period of serv- 
ice Jacob claimed his reward, but was deceived by Laban, who led his elder 
daughter, Leah, into the bride-chamber. .Complaining of the deception, he 
was told to let Leah’s marriage week pass over and then he should have 
Rachel, which promise was fulfilled. Gen. xxix, 13-30. Mention is made 
of her jealousy toward her sister on account of Leah having children while 
she herself was childless ; of her removing and secreting the terapliim, or 
household gods, of her father. This incident indicates that she was not 
altogether free from the superstition and idolatry which prevailed in the 
land. She at length became the mother of children, Joseph (Gen. xxx, 24) 
and Benjamin, dying shortly after the latter’s birth. Chap. xxxv. 18, 19. 
B. C. 1729. She “ was buried in the way to Ephrath, which is Bethlehem.” 
The site of her tomb is about two miles south of Jerusalem, aqd one mile 
north of Bethlehem, 


RADD AI — R AGU EL. 


445 


2. Character. “ From what is related to us concerning her character 
there does not seem much to claim any high degree of admiration and es- 



RACHEL’S TOMB. 

teem. The discontent and fretful impatience shown in her grief at being 
for a time childless, moved even her fond husband to anger. Gen. xxx, 1, 2. 
She appears, moreover, to have shared all the duplicity and falsehood of 
her family. See, for instance, Rachel’s stealing her father’s images, and the 
ready dexterity and presence of mind with which she concealed her theft. 
Gen. xxxi.” In Jer. xxxi, 15, 16, the prophet refers to the exile of 
the ten tribes under Shalmaneser, king of Assyria, and the sorrow caused 
by their dispersion, (2 Kings xvii, 20,) under the symbol of Rachel, the 
maternal ancestor of the tribes of Ephraim aud Manasseh, bewailing the 
fate of her children, which lamentation was a type or symbol of that which 
was fulfilled in Bethlehem when the infants were slaughtered by order of 
Herod. Matt, ii, 16-18. 

RAD'DAI, (Heb. Radday', '•Ti, treading down,) the fifth son of Jesse, 
and brother of King David. 1 Chron. ii, 14. B. C. about 1068. 

RA'GAU, (Gr. ’Payaii,) son of Phalec, and one of the ancestors of our 
Lord. Luke iii, 35. He is the same person with Reu, son of Peleg, the dif- 
ference in the names arising from our translators having followed the 
Greek form, in which the Hebrew y was frequently expressed by y. 
RAGU'EL, (Heb. ReueV , friend of God,) the name given (Hum. 

x, 29) to Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses. It has been supposed that one 
of the names represented an official title, but which one is uncertain. 


446 RAHAB. 

RA'HAB, (Heb. Rachab', 3m, wide,) a woman of Jericho at the time 
of Israel’s entrance in Canaan. 

1. Personal History. (1) Entertains Spies. Just before crossing the 
Jordan Joshua sent two men to spy out the land of Canaan as far as Jer- 
icho. In this city dwelt Rahab, “a harlot,” in a house of her own, although 
she had a father, a mother, brothers, and sisters living in Jericho. From 
the presence of the flax upon the roof and a stock of scarlet (or crimson) 
thread in the house, it has been supposed that she was engaged in the 
manufacture of linen and the art of dyeing. She had heard of the wonderful 
progress of Israel, the passage of the Red Sea, and the overthrow of their 
enemies, and was convinced that Jehovah purposed to give the land of Ca- 
naan to the Israelites. The spies found in her one who was ready to befriend 
them. Fearful of their being discovered, she hid them among the flax stalks 
on the roof, and informed the officers sent in searcli of the spies that they had 
departed from her house before the closing of the city gates. The officers 
started in pursuit, and when it was night Rahab informed the spies of what 
had happened, and secured from them a pledge to spare her life and the 
lives of her kindred, on the condition that she should hang out a scarlet 
liue at the window from which they had escaped, and that her family 
should remain under her roof. She then assisted them to escape by letting 



them down by a cord from her window, which overlooked the city wall. 
Josh, ii, 1—21. B. C. 1451. (2) Rahab Spared. At the taking of Jericho 

the spies, under the command of Joshua, took Rahab and her relatives out 
of her house, and removed them to a place of safety outside the camp of 


RAHAM — RAM. 44 ? 

Israel, (Josh, vi, 22, 23,} and thus made good their oath. The narrator 
adds, 11 And she dwelleth in Israel unto this day,” not necessarily implying 
that she was alive at the time he wrote, but that the family of strangers 
of which she was reckoned the head continued to dwell among the children 
of Israel. As regards Rahab herself, we learn from Matt, i, 5, that she be- 
came the wife of Salmon, the son of Naasson, and the mother of Boaz, 
Jesse’s grandfather. The suspicion naturally arises that Salmon may have 
been one of the spies whose life she saved, and that gratitude for so great a 
benefit led in his case to a more tender passion, and obliterated the memory 
of any past disgrace attaching to her name. But however this may be, it 
is certain, on the authority of Matthew, that Rahab became the mother of 
the line from which sprung David, and eventually Christ ; for that the Rachab 
mentioned by Matthew is Rahab the harlot is as certain as that David in 
the genealogy is the same person as David in the books of Samuel. 

2. Character. Both Jewish and Christian writers, for very obvious rea- 
sons, have been unwilling to admit the disreputable character of Rahab 
when introduced into Scripture history, and have chosen to interpret the 
word nji? ( harlot ) “ hostess,” as if from p|f, “ to nourish.” “ Dismissing, as 

inconsistent with truth, the attempt to clear her character of stain by say- 
ing that she was only an innkeeper, and not a harlot, we may yet notice that 
it is very possible that to a woman of her country and religion such a call- 
ing may have implied a far less deviation from the standard of morality than 
it does with us, and moreover, that with a purer faith she seems to have 
entered upon a pure life. As a case of casuistry, her conduct in deceiv- 
ing the king of Jericho’s messengers with a false tale, and, above all, in tak- 
ing part against her own countrymen, has been much discussed. With re- 
gard to the first, strict truth, either in Jew or heathen, was a virtue so ut- 
terly unknown before the promulgation of the Gospel that, as far as Rahab 
is concerned, the discussion is quite superfluous. With regard to her taking 
part against her own countrymen, it can only be justified, but is fully justi- 
fied, by the circumstance that fidelity to her country would in her case have 
been infidelity to God, and that the higher duty to her Maker eclipsed the 
lower duty to her native land.” — Smith, Dictionary , s. v. Her faith is com- 
mended in the Epistle to the Hebrews (xi, 31) and by James, (ii, 25.) 

RA'HAM, (Heb. Rack' am, Qrn, belly,) among the descendants of Caleb, 

the son of Hezron, Raham is mentioned (1 Chron. ii, 44) as the son of 
Shema and father of Jorkoam. B. C. after 1471. By some Jorkoam is re- 
garded as a place of which Raham was the founder. 

RA'HEIj, a form in the Authorized Version (edition of 1611) for the 
name Rachel, but now omitted every-where excepting in Jer. xxxi, 15, where 
it is probably retained through the oversight of the editors. 

RA'KEM, (1 Chron. vii, 16.) See Rekem, Ho. 1. 

RAM, (Heb. the same, D“h high.) 

1. The son of Hezron, a descendant of Pharez of the tribe of Judah, born 
in Egypt after Jacob’s migration, as his name does not appear in Gen. xlvi, 4. 
He is mentioned first in Ruth, (iv, 19,) and appears in the genealogy in 
1 Chronicles, (ii, 9, 10.) B. C. before 1491. He is called Aram in the 
ancestral lists of the New Testament. Matt, i, 3, 4 ; Luke iii, 33. 


44S 


RAMlAH— REBEKAfl. 


2. The first-born of Jerahmeel, and nephew of the preceding. 1 Chron. Ii, 
25, 2 V. B. C. after 1706. The names of his sons were Maaz, Janim, and 
Eker. 

3. A son of Barachel the Buzite, is described as “ of the kindred of Ram.” 
Job xxxii, 2. Ewald identifies Ram with Aram, mentioned in Gen. xxii, 21, 
in connection with Huz and Buz. 

RAMI' AH, (Heb. Ramyah ', ITD”), set by Jehovah,) an Israelite of the 

sons of Parosh, who put away his Gentile wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 25. 
B. C. 456. 

RA'MOTH, (Heb. Ramoth ', niD"l, heights ,) another Israelite, of the sons 

of Bani, who divorced his Gentile wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 29. B. C. 
456. 

RA'PHA, or RA'PHAH, (Heb. Raplia ', KETl, or Raphah ', flETI, giant ) 

1. The last-named of the sons of Benjamin, son of Jacob. 1 Chron. viii, 2, 
“ Rapha.” B. C. after 1706. 

2. The son of Binea and father of Eleasali, the eighth in descent from 
Jonathan, the son of Saul. 1 Chron. viii, 37, “ Raphah.” B. C. after 1000. 
He is called Rephaiah in 1 Chron. ix, 43. 

RA'PHU, (Heb. Raphu ', tf5)£n, healed,) the father of Palti, which latter 

represented the tribe of Benjamin among those sent to spy out the promised 
land. Nura. xiii, 9. B. C. 1490. 

REAI'A, a Reubenite, son of Micah, and apparently prince of his tribe. 
1 Chron. v, 5. B. C. before 720. The name is identical with 

REAI'AH, (Heb. Reayah rPfcO> whom Jehovah cares for.) 

1. A descendant of Shubal, the son of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 2. In chap, 
ii, 52, he is called (apparently) Haroeli, (HK^ri, the seer.) 

2. The children of Reaiah were a family of Nethinim who returned from 
Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 47 ; Neh. vii, 50. B. C. before 536. 

RE'BA, (Heb. same, four,) one of the five Midianite kings slain by 

the Israelites in Moab. Num. xxxi, 8 ; Josh, xiii, 21. B. C. 1452. 

REBEC'CA, (’Pej Sinna,) the Grecized form (Rom. ix, 10) of the name 
Rebekah, (q. v.) 

REBEK'AH. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Ribkah', np3"l, a noose, 

aptly of a maiden who ensnares by her beauty.) The daughter of Betliuel, 
Abraham’s brother. Gen. xxii, 23. 

2. Personal History. (1) Marriage. In arranging for the marriage 
of his son Isaac Abraham intrusted the commission to his trusty servant, 
(generally supposed to be Eliezer,) and made him swear not to take a wife 
for him from the daughters of the Canaanites, but to bring one from his 
(Abraham’s) native country and his kindred. He went, therefore, to the city of 
Nalior, and came to a halt by the well without the city at the time when the 
women came out to draw water. He then prayed to Jehovah, fixing upon 
a sign by the occurrence of which he might decide upon the maiden whom 
Jehovah had chosen to be the wife of Isaac. Rebekah did just what had 


RECHAB— REGEM-MELECti. 


440 


been fixed upon as a token, and Abraham’s servant pressed his suit so ear- 
nestly that she and her family consented to her marriage, and she started for 
her future home the following day. Arriving in Canaan, she-^vas received 
by Isaac and became his wife. Gen. xxiv, 1-67. B. C. 1857. (2) Mother. 

For nineteen years after marriage Rebekah remained childless ; then, after 
the prayers of Isaac and her journey to inquire of the Lord, Esau and Jacob 
were born. Gen. xxv, 21-26. B. C. 1837. Jacob was the favorite of his 
mother, (Gen. xxv, 28,) while Esau was a source of grief both to her and 
Isaac. Chap, xxvi, 35. (3) In Philistia. Driven by famine into the coun- 

try of the Philistines, Isaac was fearful lest the beauty of his wife should 
be a source of danger to him, and therefore declared that she was his sis- 
ter. Before long the deception was discovered, and Abimelech, the king, 
commanded that no one should molest her, on pain of death. Gen. xxvi, 1-11. 
B. C. about 1804. (4) Suggests Deception. Some time after this, B. C. 

about 1760, Rebekah suggested the deceit that Jacob practiced upon his fa- 
ther, assisted him in carrying it out, and prevented the consequences of 
Esau’s anger by sending Jacob away to her own kindred. Chap, xxvii, 5-46. 
(5) Death and Burial. The Scriptures do not state when nor where the 
death of Rebekah took place, but it has been conjectured that it occurred 
while Jacob was absent in Padan-aram. The place of her burial, incident- 
ally mentioned by Jacob on his death-bed, (chap. xlix. 31,) was in the field 
of Machpelah. Paul (Rom. ix, 10-12) refers to Rebekah as being made ac- 
quainted with the purpose of God regarding her children before they were 
born. 

RE'CHAB, (Ileb. Rechab', 33"i, a rider.) 

1. One of the two “ sons of Rimmon the Beerothite ” who slew Ish-bosheth, 
the son of Jonathan, in the hope of obtaining favor with David. But when 
the king heard of their crime he was so filled with abhorrence thereat that 
he caused them to be put to death. 2 Sam. iv, 2-12. B. C. about 1048. 

2. The father of Jehonadab, (or Jonadab,) who assisted Jehu in destroy- 
ing the worshipers of Baal. 2 Kings x, 15-28. B. C. 884. He was the an- 
cestor of the Rechabites. Jer. xxxv, 6, 8, 14, 16, 19. 

3. The father of Malchiah, which latter was ruler of part of Beth-hac- 
cerem, and repaired the dung-gate” of Jerusalem after the captivity. Neh. 
iii, 14. B. C. 445. 

REELAI'AH, (Heb. Reelayah ', |T^n> fearer of Jehovah ,) one of the 

TT •• • 

“ children of the province ” who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. 
Ezra ii, 2. B. C. about 536. In Neh. vii, 7, his name is given as Raamiah. 

RE'GEM, (Heb. same, DJn, friend ,) the first-named of the sons of Jah- 

dai, who appears to have been of the family of Caleb. 1 Chron. ii, 47. B. C. 
after 1491. 

RE'GEM-ME’LECH, (Heb. Re' gem Me'lek , Tjta on, friend of the 

king ,) the name of a person sent with Sharezer to the house of God- to pray 
before the Lord. Zech. vii, 2. B. C. 518. It is thought, however, that the 
“ house of God ” (Bethel) should be the subject of the sentence, which 
would then read, “ Then Bethel (that is, the inhabitants of that place) sent 
Sharezer and Regem-melech and his men to entreat the face of Jehovah.” 
— Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary , in loco. 


REiJABIAH— REHOBOAM. 


450 

REHABI'AH, (Heb. Rechabydh', i*P31Vl, or Rechabya'hu, en- 

larged by Jehovah ,) the only son of Eliezer, the son of Moses. 1 Chron. 
xxiii, 17 ; xxiv, 21 ; xxvi, 25. B. C. after 1491. 

RE 'HOB, (Heb. RechoV , 3h"l, a street.) 

1. The father of Hadadezer, king of Zobah, whom David smote at the 
Euphrates. 2 Sam. viii, 3, 12. B. C. before 1040. 

2. A Levite who sealed the covenant with Nehemiah. Neh. x, 11. B. C. 445. 

REHOBO'AM, (Heb. Rechabdm , DlDrn, enlarger of the people.) 

1. Family. The son of Solomon by the Ammonite princess, Naamah. 
1 Kings xiv, 21, 31. He was born B. C. about 1015. 

2. Personal History. (1) Accession. Rehoboam selected Shechem as 

the place of his coronation, probably as an act of concession to the Ephra- 
imites, who were always dissatisfied with their inferior position in the 
confederation of the tribes. 1 Kings xii, 1; 2 Chron. x, 1. B. C. about 
975. (2) Insurrection. The people demanded a remission of the severe 

burdens imposed by Solomon, and Rehoboam promised them an answer in 
three days, during which time he consulted first his father’s counselors, and 
then the young men “ that were grown up with him, and which stood be- 
fore him.” Rejecting the advice of the elders to conciliate the people at 
the beginning of his reign, he returned as his reply the frantic bravado of 
his contemporaries. Thereupon rose the formidable song of insurrection, 
heard once before when the tribes quarreled after David’s return from the 
war with Absalom. Rehoboam sent Adoram to reduce the rebels to rea- 
son, but he was stoned to death by them ; whereupon the king and his at- 
tendants fled to Jerusalem. On Rehoboam’s return to Jerusalem he assem- 
bled an army of 180,000 men from the two faithful tribes of Judah and 
Benjamin, in the hope of reconquering Israel. The expedition, however, 
was forbidden by the prophet Shemaiah, (1 Kings xii, 1-24;) still during 
Rehoboam’s life-time peaceful relations between Israel and Judah were never 
restored. 2 Chron. xii, 15; 1 Kings xiv, 30. (3) Reign. Rehoboam now' 

occupied himself in strengthening the territories which remained to him by 
building a number of fortresses. 2 Chron. xi, 6-10. The pure worship of 
God was maintained in Judah. But Rehoboam did not check the introduc- 
tion of heathen abominations into his capital ; the lascivious worship of 
Ashtoreth was allowed to exist, “images” were set up, and the worst im- 
moralities were tolerated. 1 Kings xiv, 22-24 ; 2 Chron. xii, 1. (4) Egyp- 

tian Invasion. In the fifth year of Rehoboam’s reign the country was in- 
vaded by Egyptians and other African nations, under Shishak, numbering 
1,200 chariots, 60,000 horse, and a vast multitude of infantry. The for- 
tresses about Jerusalem and that city itself were taken, and Rehoboam pur- 
chased a peace by delivering up the temple treasures. After this great 
humiliation the moral condition of Judah seems to have improved (2 Chron. 
xii, 12) and the rest of Rehoboam’s life to have been unmarked by any 
events of importance. He died B. C. 958, after a reign of seventeen years, 
having ascended the throne B. C. 975, at the age of forty-one. 1 Kings 
xiv, 21; 2 Chron. xii, 13. He had eighteen wives, sixty concubines, 
twenty- eight sous, and sixty daughters. Of all his wives Maachah was his 
favorite, and to her son Abijah he bequeathed his kingdom. 2 Chron. xi, 
18-22. 


EE HUM— REPHAIAH. 45 i 

RE'HUM, (Heb. Rechum,', compassionate.) 

1. One of the i: children of the province ” who returned from the captivity 
with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 2. B. C. about 536. In Neh. vii, 7, he is* called 

Nehum. 

2. An officer of the king of Persia, perhaps a lieutenant-governor of the 
province of Samaria, who united with Shimshai in writing a letter to Ar- 
laxerxes which influenced him against the Jews. Ezra iv, 8, 9, 17, 23. 
B. C. 522. 

3. A Levite, son of Bani, who repaired part of the wall of Jerusalem 
under Nehemiah. Neh. iii, 17. B. C. 445. 

4. One of the “ chief of the people ” who signed with Nehemiah the cov- 
enant to serve Jehovah. Neh. x, 25. B. 0. 445. 

5. One of the priests who accompanied Zerubbabel at the same time as 
the preceding. Neh. xii, 3. 

RE'i, (Heb. Rey', 'jn, friendly ,) one of David’s friends who refused to 
espouse the cause of Adonijan. 1 Kings i, 8. B. 0. 1015. 

RE'KEM, (Heb. same, Qjyi, variegation.) 

1. One of the five Midianite kings slain by the Israelites along with Ba- 
laam. Num. xxxi, 8; Josh, xiii, 21. B. C. 1452. 

2. One of the sons of Hebron, and father of Shammai of the tribe of 
Judah. 1 Cbron. ii, 43, 44. B. C. after 1451. 

3. A descendant of Machir, the son of Manasseh, by his wife Maachah. 
1 Chron. vii, 16. The name is sometimes given as Rakem. 

REMALI'AH, (Heb. Remalyahu , }rp^O“l, protected [or adorned\ by 

Jehovah,) the father of Pekah, king of Israel. 2 Kings xv, 25, 27, 30, 
32, 37 ; xvi, 1,5; 2 Chron. xxviii, 6 ; Isa. vii, 1, 4, 5, 9 ; viii, 6. B. C. be- 
fore 759. 

RETHAEL, (Heb. Rephael ', whom God heals,) a son of the Le- 

vite Shemaiah of the house of Obed-edom, and one of the door-keepers of 
the house of God in the time of David. 1 Chron. xxvi, 7. B. C. about 1015. 
RETHAH, (Heb. Re'phach, nD“l, riches ,) a son of Beriah of the tribe 

of Ephraim, born probably after the entrance into Canaan. 1 Chron. vii, 25. 
B. C. after 1452. 

REPHAI'AH, (Heb. Rephayah', ITSD. healed by Jehovah.) 

1. The sons of Rephaiah, the sons of Arnon, etc., (1 Chron. iii, 21.) were, 
it is supposed, branches of the family of David whose descent or connection 
with Zerubbabel is for us unascertainable. Rephaiah is probably the same 
with Rhesa, (q. v.,) mentioned in Luke iii, 27. 

2. A son of Ishi, and one of the chiefs of Simeon in the time of Heze- 
kiah, who led the expedition of 500 men against the Araalekites of Mount 
Seir. 1 Chron. iv, 42. B. C. about 715. 

3. One of the six sons of Tola, and head of a family in Issachar. 1 Chron. 
vii, 2. B. C. before 1491. 

4. The son of Binea, and eighth in descent from Jonathan, the son of Saul. 

1 Chron. ix, 43. B. C. long after 1000. He is called Rapha in chap, viii, 37. 


452 


I 


RESHEPH — REUEL. 


5. The son of Hur, and the “ruler of the half part of Jerusalem.” He 
repaired part of the wall of the city. Neh. iii, 9. B. C. 445. 

RE'SHEPH, (Heb. same, QKh, flame,) a son of Beriah of the tribe of 
Ephraim. 1 Chron. vii, 25. B. C. after 1452. 

RE'U, (Heb. Reu\ !|jn, friend ,) the son of Peleg and father of Serug, in 

the ancestry of Abraham. Gen. xi, 18-21 ; 1 Chron. i, 25. B. C. 2217. He 
lived 239 years. He is called Ragau in Luke iii, 35. 

REU'BEN. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Reuben ', see a son.) The 
first-born son of Jacob and Leah. Gen. xxix, 32. B. C. 1752. 

2. Personal History. (1) His Crime. When Jacob dwelt in Edar 

Reuben committed an offense (Gen. xxxv, 22) which was too great for Jacob 
ever to forget, and of which he spoke with abhorrence even upon his dying 
bed. Gen. xlix, 4. (2) Befriends Joseph. When his brethren were plan- 

ning for the destruction of Joseph in Dothan, Reuben, as the eldest son, in- 
terfered in his behalf. By his advice Joseph’s life was spared — he was 
stripped of his distinguished garment and cast into a pit. In Reuben’s ab- 
sence Joseph was sold to the Ishmaelites. When Reuben returned, with 
the intention of rescuing his brother, he found that he had gone, and mani- 
fested great grief thereat. Gen. xxxvii, 21, 22, 29. (3) In Egypt. Reuben 
accompanied his brethren into Egypt in search of food, and accepted Joseph’s 
harsh treatment of himself and brethren as a proper judgment upon them 
because of their sin. Gen. xlii, 22. He delivered Joseph’s message to Jacob 
demanding Benjamin’s presence in Egypt, and offered his two sons as 
pledges for his brother’s safe return. Gen. xlii, 37. Upon the removal of 
Jacob into Egypt, Reuben had four sons — Hanoch, Phallu, Hezron, and 
Carmi. Gen. xlvi, 9. 

3. Character. “ Reuben seems to have been of an ardent, impetuous, 
unbalanced, but not of an ungenerous nature ; not crafty and cruel, as were 
Simeon and Levi, but rather, to use the metaphor of the dying patriarch, 
boiling up like a vessel of water over the rapid wood-fire of the nomad tent, 
and as quickly subsiding into apathy when the fuel was withdrawn.” 

4. The Tribe of Reuben. (1) Numbers. At the time of the migration 

into Egypt Reuben’s sons were four, and from them sprang the chief fami- 
lies of the tribe. The census of Mount Sinai (Num. i, 20, 21 ; ii, 11) shows 
that the numbers of this tribe at the exodus was 46,500 men above tweuiy 
years of age, and fit for active warlike service, ranking seventh in popula- 
tion. At the later census, taken thirty-eight years after, and just before 
entering Canaan, its numbers had decreased to 43,730, which made it rank 
as ninth. Num. xxvi, 7. (2) Position. During the journey through the 

wilderness the position of Reuben was on the south side of the tabernacle. 
The “camp” which went under his name was formed of his own tribe, 
that of Simeon and of Gad. (3) Inheritance. The country allotted to this 
tribe was east of Jordan, extending on the south to the river Arnou, on the 
east to the desert of Arabia ; on the west were the Dead Sea and the Jordan, 
and the northern border was probably marked by a line running eastward 
from the Jordan through Wady Heshbdn. Josh, xiii, 17-21 ; Num. xxxii, 37, 38. 

REU'EL, (Heb. Reiiel ', friend of God.) 

1. The son of Esau by his wife Bashemath. Gen. xxxvi, 4, 10, 35. B. C. 



REUMAH— RHODA. 453 

about 1761. His four sons (Gen. xxxvi, ]3; 1 Chron. i, 37) were chiefs 
(“ dukes ”) of the Edomites. Gen. xxxvi, 17. 

2. A priest of Midian and herdsman, who gave a hospitable reception to 
Moses when he fled from Egypt, and whose daughter Zipporah became the 
wife of Moses. Exod. ii, 18. Reuel is undoubtedly the same person as 
Jethro, (q. v.,) the first being probably his proper name and the latter a 
title or surname, indicating his rank. 

3. The father of Eliasaph, the captain of the host of Gad at the time of 
the census at Sinai. Num. ii, 14. B. C. 1490. The parallel passages (chap, 
i, 14 ; vii, 42, 47 ; x, 20) give the name as Deuel. 

4. The son of Ibnijah and father of Shephathiah, of the tribe of Benjamin. 

1 Chron. ix, 8. 

REU'MAH, (Heb. Reiimah f, elevated,) Nahor’s concubine, and 

by him mother of Tebah and others. Gen. xxii, 24. B. C. about 1860. 

REZFA, (Heb. Ritsyah', n'T’l, delight ,) one of the sons of Ulla, of the 
tribe of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 39. B. C. perhaps about 1451. 

REZ'IN, (Heb. Ret-sin jiyi, meaning doubtful, perhaps firm , or prince.) ■ 

1. A king of Damascus who was contemporary with Pekah in Israel and 
with Jotham and Ahaz in Judah. Allying himself with Israel, he carried 
on constant war against Judah, attacking Jotham toward the close of his 
reign. 2 Kings xv, 37. B. C. 742. His chief war was with Ahaz, whose 
territories he invaded in company with Pekah. B. C. about 741. The com- 
bined army laid siege to Jerusalem, where Ahaz was, but “could not prevail 
against it.” Isa. vii, 1 ; 2 Kings xvi, 5. Rezin, however, “ recovered Elath to 
Syria.” 2 Kings xvi, 6. Soon after this he was attacked, defeated, and 
slain by Tiglath-pileser II., king of Assyria. 2 Kings xvi, 9. Compare Tig- 
lath-pileser’s own inscriptions, where the defeat of Rezin and the destruction 
of Damascus are distinctly mentioned. 

2. One of the families of the Nethinim. Ezra ii, 48 ; Neh. vii, 50. 

RE'ZON, (Heb. Rezon ', jin, prince,) the son of Eliadah, a Syrian in the 

service of Hadadezer, king of Zobah. When David defeated Hadadezer(2 Sara, 
viii, 3) Rezon forsook his lord, and gathering a band about him, established 
himself as king of Damascus. 1 Kings xi, 23-25. The settlement of Rezon 
at Damascus could not have been till some time after the disastrous battle in 
which the power of Hadadezer was broken, for we are told that David at 
the same time defeated the army of Damascene Syrians who came to the 
relief of Hadadezer, and put garrisons in Damascus. B. C. after 1040. From 
his position at Damascus Rezon harassed the kingdom of Solomon during 
his whole reign. 

RHE'SA, (Gr. ’P yad,) a name given in the genealogy of Christ (Luke 
iii, 27) as the son of Zorobabel and father of Joanna. He is probably the 
same with Rephaim, (q. v.) 

RHO'DA, (Gr. ’P odij, rose,) the maiden who announced the arrival of 
Peter at the door of Mary’s house after his release from the prison by the 
angel. Acts xii, 13, 14. A. D. 44. 


454 


RIBAI— ROSH. 


RIB'AI, (Heb. Ribay ', lohom Jehovah pleads ,) a Benjamite of 

Gibeah whose sou Ittai was one of David’s mighty men. 2 Sam. xxiii, 29 ; 

1 Cliron. xi, 31. B. C. before 1018. 

RIM'MON, (Heb. Rimmon f, p£H, pomegranate ,) a Benjamite of Beeroth 

whose sons, Baanah and Recliab, murdered Ish-boshetb. 2 Sam. iv, 2-9. 
B. C. about 1048. 

RIN'NAH, (Heb. Rinnah ', H-H, a shout,) a son of Shimon, of the tribe 
of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 20. B. C. before 1450. 

RFPHATH, (Heb. Riphath nS'H, perhaps spoken ,) the second son of 

Gomer aud grandson of Japheth. Gen. x, 3 ; 1 Chron. i, 6, (in which latter 
passage the name is given Riphath, by a clerical error.) B. C. after 2357. 

RIZ'PAH, (Heb. Ritspah', n£)¥*l, a live coal,) a concubine of King Saul. 

Rizpah was a foreigner, the daughter (or descendant) of Aiah, a Hivite. 
She is first mentioned as the subject of an accusation leveled against Abner. 

2 Sam. iii, 7. B. C. about 1053. We next hear of her in the tragic story 
narrated in 2 Sam. xxi, 8-11, the particulars of which are as follows: A 
famine, which lasted three successive years, induced David to seek the face 
of Jehovah, aud to ask the cause of the judgment resting upon the land. 
The Lord replied, “Because of Saul, and because of his bloody house, be- 
cause he hath slain the Gibeonites.” David, therefore, sent for the Gibeon- 
ites to inquire of them as to the wrong which had been done them by Saul, 
and as to how he should make atonement therefor. They asked for the 
crucifixion at Gibeah of seven men of Saul’s sons. David granted the re- 
quest, because, according to the law, (Num. xxxv, 33,) blood-guiltiness, when 
resting upon the land, could only be expiated by the blood of the criminal, 
and gave up to the Gibeonites two sons of Rizpah, and five sons of Merab, 
the daughter of Saul. The victims were sacrificed “ at the beginning of the 
barley harvest,” about the middle of Nisan, (our April,) and hung in the full 
blaze of the summer sun till the fall of the periodical rain in October. Dur- 
ing all this time, without any tent to protect her, and only a garment of 
sackcloth to rest upon, Rizpah watched the bodies, and “ suffered neither the 
birds of the air to rest on them by day, nor the beasts of the field by night.” 
B. C. 1021. 

ROH'GAH, (Heb. Rohgah', Him, outcry ,) the second son of Sliamer, of 

the tribe of Asher, and fifth in descent from that patriarch. 1 Chron. vii, 34. 
B. C. about 1491. 

ROMAM'TI-E'ZER, (Heb. same, "iTjj ’•riptt'i, I have exalted his help, or 

heights of help,) one of the sons of Heman the seer. In the arrangement of 
the temple service by David, Romamti-ezer was appointed chief of the 
twenty-fourth section, consisting of twelve persons of his family 1 Chron. 
xxv, 4, 31. B. C. about 1015. 

ROSH, (Heb. Rosh, £>K"|, the head.) In the genealogy of Gen. xlvi, 21, 
Rosh is reckoned among the sons of Benjamin, but the name does not occur 
elsewhere, and it is extremely probable that “ Elii and Rosh ” (G^fcO’PnN) i 8 
a corruption of “ Ahiram.” Compare Num. xxvi. 38, 


RUFUS— RUTH. 


455 


RU'FUS, (red,) brother of Alexander, and son of Simon the Cyrenian, 
whom the Jews compelled to bear the cross of Jesus when on his way to 
the crucifixion. Mark xv, 21. A. D. 33, (29.) Rufus is included by the 
apostle Paul (Rom. xvi, 13) among those in Rome to whom he sends salu- 
tations. A. D. 60 fc (55.) It is generally supposed that this Rufus is iden- 
tical to the one mentioned by Mark, and yet, as this was a common name, 
they may be different- individuals. 

RUHA'MAH, or RU'HAMAH, (Heb. Ruchamah ', HDIVl, finding mer- 
cy,) & figurative title of Israel (Hosea ii, 1) in which God promises reconcil- 
iation to his people on condition of their repenting and seeking him. “ As 
the promises of grace to the obstinate Jews are transferred meanwhile to the 
believing Christians, Peter applied them to the Gentile proselytes, to whom 
he addresses his first epistle, telling them that in time past they were not a 
people, but are now the people of God, which had not obtained mercy, but 
now have obtained mercy. 1 Pet. ii, 10. Paul also distinctly applies the 
prophecy, not to the Jews only, but to the Gentiles : ; And that he might 
make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, ... even us, 
whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles ? As 
he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people ; 
and her beloved, which was not beloved.’ Rom. ix, 23-25. The wording in 
Hosea (chap, i, 2) indicates the admission of the Gentiles into the participa- 
tion of the promises made to the Jews. In the first instance, in the threats 
against Israel and Judah, it is a son, Lo-ammi, and a daughter, Lo-ruhamah. 
When the promises are given the plural number is used ; then it is brethren 
and sisters: not Jew only, but Jew and Gentile.” — M’Clintock and Strong, 
Cyclopaedia , s. v. 

RUTH, (Heb. Ruth, nn a female friend ,) a Moabitess, first the wife of 
Mahlon, and then of Boaz, and an ancestress of David and of Christ. 

Personal History. (1) Wife of Mahlon. In the time of the Judges 
Elimelech, an inhabitant of Bethlehem in Judah, emigrated into the land of 
Moab with his wife Naomi, and his two sons, Mahlon and Ch’ilion, because 
of a famine in the land. Ruth i, 1, 2. There he died, and his two sons 
married Moabitish women, named Orpah and Ruth, the latter becoming the 
wife of Mahlon. Chap, iv, 10. B. C. after 1322. (2) Return to Bethlehem. 

After the death of her two sons Naomi resolved to return to her own coun- 
try and kindred, and Ruth determined to accompany her, notwithstanding 
her mother-in-law’s entreaty that she would follow her sister-in-law and re- 
turn to her own people and her God. Ruth answered her in beautiful and 
earnest words : “ Entreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following 
after thee : for whither thou goest, I will go ; and where thou lodgest, I will 
lodge : thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God : where thou 
diest, will I die. and there will I be buried : the Lord do so to me, and more 
also, if aught but death part thee and me.” Chap, i, 16, 17. They arrived at 
Bethlehem just at the beginning of the barley harvest. (3) Marries Boaz. 
Ruth went out to glean for the purpose of procuring support for herself and 
mother-in-law, and in gleaning came by chance upon Boaz, a relative of 
Naomi. When he heard that she had come with Naomi from Moab, Boaz 
spoke kindly to her, and gave her permission not only to glean in the field 
and even among the sheaves, but to appease her hunger and thirst with the 
food and drink of his reapers, Chap, ii, 1-16. Hi^ kindness to her induce4 


456 


SABTA — SALATHIEL. 


Naomi to counsel Ruth to seek an opportunity for intimating to Boaz the 
claim she had upon him as the nearest kinsman of her deceased husband. 
Ruth followed this advice, and Boaz promised to fulfill her request provided 
the nearer redeemer who was still living would not perform this duty. Chap, 
iii, 1-13. As he was indisposed to do so, Boaz obtained from him a release, 
redeemed himself the patrimony of Elimelech, and took Ruth to be his 
wife. Chap, iv, 1-13. B. C. about 1312. In process of time she became 
the mother of Obed, the father of Jesse and grandfather of David. Vers. 
13, 17 ; Matt, i, 5. 

Difficulties.— The artifice that Naomi suggested and Ruth adopted to induce 
Boaz to act as her redeemer (chap, iii, 1, sq.) appears, according to our customs, to be 
objectionable from a moral point of view ; judged, however, by the customs of that 
time it is not. Boaz, who was an honorable man, praised Ruth for having taken 
refuge with him instead of looking for a husband among younger men, and took 
no offense at the manner in which she had approached him and proposed to be- 
come his wife. The anxiety manifested by Ruth is explained by the desire to 
continue the family name, and to have the possessions of her father-in-law re- 
deemed and restored to the family. 


SAB'TA, (Heb. Sabta', KD3D, meaning unknown,) the third son of Cush 
and grandson of Ham. Gen. x, 7 ; 1 Chron. i, 9. B. C. about 2218. 
SAB'TAH, (Gen. x, 7.) See Sabta. 

SAB'TECHA, (Heb. Sabteka', fcOfilD, meaning unknown,) the fifth- 

named son of Cush, the son of Ham. Gen. x, 7 ; 1 Chron. i, 9. B. C. about 
2218. 

SAB'TECHAH, (Gen. x, 7.) See Sabtecha. 

SA'CAR, (Heb. Sacar ', wages.) 

1. A Haharite and father of Ahiam, one of David’s mighty men. 1 Chron. 
xi, 35. B. C. before 1047. In 2 Sam. xxiii, 33, he is called Sharar. 

2. The fourth sou of Obed-edom. 1 Chron. xxvi, 4. B. C. about 1015. 
SA'DOC, (Gr. form of Zadok,) an ancestor of Jesus Christ. Matt, i, 14. 

B. C. about 220. 

SA'LA, (Gr. form of Salah,) the patriarch Salah, the father of Eber. 
Luke iii, 35. 

SA'LAH, (Heb. She' lack, vb&i something sent forth, as a javelin or sprout ,) 

one of the patriarchs, and only named son of Arphaxad. Gen. x, 24 ; xi, 
12-15; 1 Chron. i, 18, 24. In the last two references he is called Shelah. 
At thirty years of age he became the father of Eber, and lived to be 433 
years old. B. C. 2311-1878. 

SALA'THIEL, (Heb. Shealtiel ' , asked of God,) son of Jecho- 

nias, king of Judah, and father of Zorobabel, according to Matt, i, 12 ; but 
son of Neri and father of Zorobabel, according to Luke iii, 27 ; while the 
genealogy in 1 Chron. iii, 17-19, leaves it doubtful whether lie is the son of 
Assir or Jechonias. Upon the incontrovertible principle that no genealogy 
would assign to the true son and heir of a king any inferior and private 
parentage, whereas, on the contrary, the son of a private person would nat- 
urally be placed in the royal pedigree on his becoming the rightful heir to 


SALLA1 — SALOME. 


457 


the throne, we may assert, with the utmost confidence, that St. Luke gives 
us the true state of the case when he informs us that Salathiel was the son 
of Neri, and a descendant of Nathan, the son of David. And from his in- 
sertion in the royal pedigree, both in 1 Chronicles and St. Matthew’s Gospel, 
after the childless Jechonias, we infer, with no less confidence, that, on the 
failure of Solomon’s line, he was the next heir to the throne of David. 
Keil ( Commentary , in loco) supposes that Assir may have left only a daugh- 
ter, who married a man belonging to a family of her paternal tribe, namely, 
Neri, and that from this marriage sprang Salathiel. Coming into the inher- 
itance of his maternal grandfather he would be legally regarded as his legit- 
imate son. The Authorized Version has Salathiel in 1 Chron. iii, 17, but 
every-where else in the Old Testament Shealtiel, (q. v.) 

SALXAI, (Heb. Sallay ', 4)p, perhaps built up, as a basket) 

1. A leading Benjamite who, with 928 of his tribesmen, settled in Jeru- 
salem on the return from the captivity. Neh. xi, 8. B. C. 445. 

2. One of the chiefs of the priests who returned to Jerusalem with Ze- 
rubbabel. Neh. xii, 20. B. C. about 536. In ver. 7 he is called Sallu. 

SAI/LU, the name of two Hebrews, spelled differently in the original. 

1. (Heb. Sallu', [N^D, Neh. xi, 7,] weighed ,) a son of Meshullam, a 

Benjamite dwelling in Jerusalem after the captivity. Neh. xi, 7 ; 1 Chron. 
ix, 7. B. C. about 445. 

2. (Heb. !|^p, weighed ,) another form (Neh. xii, 7) of the name Sallai, 
No. 2, (q. v.) 

SAL'MA, (Heb. Salma', « garment) 

1. Another form (1 Chron. ii, 11) for Salmon, (q. v.) 

2. The second-named of the sons of Caleb and father (founder) of Bethle- 
hem, (1 Chron. ii, 51,) and of the Netophathites. Ver. 54. B. C. probably 
about 1471. 

SAL'MON, (Heb. Salmon ' , clothing ,) the son of Nashon and an- 

cestor of Boaz. Ruth iv, 20, 21 ; 1 Chron. ii, 11, Salma; Matt, i, 4, 5 ; Luke 
iii, 32. B. C. probably about 1450. 

SALO'ME, (Gr. 'Zaluyrj, from the Heb. ‘peaceful.) 

1. The daughter of Herodias by her first husband, Herod Philip. (Jose- 
phus, Ant , xviii, 5, 4.) She is the “ daughter of Herodias ” mentioned in 
Matt, xiv, 6, as dancing before Herod Antipas and securing, at her mother’s 
instigation, the death of John the Baptist. To do honor to the day and to 
the company Salome broke through the rule of strict seclusion from the 
other sex, and condescended, though a princess and the daughter of kings, 
to dance before Antipas and his guests. “ The dancing then in vogue both 
in Rome and the provinces, from its popularity under Augustus, was very 
like that of our modern ballet. The dancer did not speak, but acted some 
story by gestures, movements, and attitudes, to the sound of music. Masks 
were used in all cases to conceal the features, but all other parts of the 
body, especially the hands and arms, were called into action, and a skillful 
pantomimist could express feelings, passions, and acts with surprising effect. 
The dress of the performer was planned to show the beauty of the figure 
29 


458 


SALU— SAMSON. 


to the greatest advantage, though it varied with the characters represented.” 
■ — Geikie, Life of Christ , p. 300. Salome was married in the first place to 
Philip, tetrarch of Trachonitis, her paternal uncle, who died childless ; and, 
secondly, to her cousin Aristobulus, son of Herod, king of Chalcis, by whom 
she had three sous. 

2. The wife of Zebedee, as appears by a comparison of Matt, xxvii, 56, 
with Mark xv, 40. Many modern critics are of the opinion that she was 
the sister of Mary the mother of Jesus alluded to in John xix, 25. Others 
make the expression “his mother’s sister” refer to “Mary the wife of 
Cleophas ” immediately following. We can hardly regard the point as set- 
tled, though the weight of modern criticism is decidedly in favor of the for- 
mer view. The only events recorded of Salome are that she preferred a 
request on behalf of her two sons for seats of honor in the kingdom of 
heaven, (Matt, xx, 20,) that she attended at the crucifixion of Jesus, (Mark 
xv, 40,) and that she visited his sepulcher. Mark xvi, 1. She is mentioned 
by name only on the two later occasions. 

SA'LU, (Heb. Salu', weighed ,) the father of Zimri, which latter was 

slain by Phinehas for bringing a Midianitish woman into the camp of Israel. 
Num. xxv, 14. B. C. 1452. 

SAM'GAR-NE'BO, (Heb. Samgar' Nebu ', !Q3H2)DD, sword [or con- 
queror ] of Nebo, that is, the Chaldean Mercury,) one of the officers of Nebu- 
chadnezzar’s army present at the taking of Jerusalem. Jer. xxxix, 3. B. C. 
588. As in ver. 13 the chief of the eunuchs is called Nebu-sliasban it has 
been supposed that Nebu-Sarsechim is only another name of the same per- 
son, and that Samgar is only the name of his office. 

SAM'LAH, (Heb. Samlah', cl garment ,) one of the kings of 

Edom before the establishment of the Israelitish monarchy. Gen. xxxvi, 
36, 37 ; 1 Chron. i, 47, 48. B. C. after 1451. He was the successor of 
Hadad, (Hadar,) and was of the city of Masrekah. 

SAM'SON, the renowned judge and deliverer of Israel. 1. Name and 
Family. (Heb. Shimshon ', sun-like.) Samson was the son of Mano- 

ah, of the tribe of Dan, whose birth was foretold to his parents by an angel 
of the Lord, accompanied with the announcement that he was to be a Naz- 
arite from his nativity. Judg. xiii, 2-5, 24. B. C. 1161. 

2 Personal History. Samson grew up under special influences of the 
Spirit of God, and at last was impelled to commence the conflict with the 
Philistines, which only terminated with his death. (1) Marries a Philistine. 
When he was about twenty years old Samson saw at Timnath a daughter of 
the Philistines who pleased him ; and on his return asked his parents to 
take her for him as a wife. They were averse to such a marriage, but Sam- 
son persisted, being convinced that it would in some way aid him in visiting 
vengeance upon the Philistines. On his first visit to his future bride he 
slew a lion with his hands, and when he went to espouse her found the 
skeleton occupied by a swarm of bees. At the wedding-feast he proposed 
a riddle, conforming to the oriental custom of furnishing entertainment to 
the guests. Unable to solve it, they urged his wife to secure the answer 
from him and inform them. He yielded, but, seized with indignation, went 


SAMSON. 


459 


to Ashkelon, slew thirty Philistines, and gave the changes of garments to 
those who had shown the riddle. He returned to his father’s house, and 
his wife was given to his companion. Judg. xiv, 1-20. B. C. 1141. (2) His 
Revenge. Samson soon after visited his wife, but was refused admission to 
her by her father. He interpreted the treatment which he had received from 
his father-in-law as the effect of the disposition generally of the Philistines 
toward the Israelites, and resolved to avenge his wrong upon the whole na- 
tion. He secured 300 foxes, (jackals,) and, by tying firebrands to their 
tails, set fire to the grain fields, vine and olive yards, of his enemies. Chap, 
xv, 1-5. The Philistines retorted by burning Samson’s wife and father-in- 
law ; and this provocation so aroused Samson that he smote them “ hip and 
thigh,'’ (that is, with a cruel and unsparing slaughter,) after which he went 
down and dwelt in the cleft of the rock Etam. Chap, xv, 6-8. (3) Deliv- 

ered up to the Philistines. The Philistines came to avenge themselves, and 
encamped in Judah, and the Judaeans, instead of recognizing Samson as a 
deliverer, went to Etam, to the number of 3,000, for the purpose of binding 



ASHKELON. 


him and handing him over to their enemies. He consented on condition that 
they themselves would not kill him. They bound him with two new cords 

and brought him to Lehi, ('r6, a jaw,) and in this apparently helpless condi- 
tion delivered him to the Philistines. When he heard their shout of joy his 
preternatural strength suddenly put itself forth, and, snapping the cords 
asunder, he seized upon a fresh jawbone of an ass and smote therewith a 
thousand men. Casting away his weapon, he called the name of the place 
Ramath-lechi, (the jawbone height.) Weary and athirst, Samson, conscious 
that he was fighting for the cause of Jehovah, prayed unto the Lord, who 
caused a stream to flow from the rock, which Samson called En-hakkore, 
(that is, the vjett of him that prayed.) Samson drank and was revived again. 
Chap, xv, 9-20. (4) At Gaza. After this Samson went to the city of Gaza, 

and became intimate with a woman of loose character residing there. His 
presence being made known, the Gazites fastened the city gates, intending 
to kill him in the morning, when, as they supposed, he would leave the 
house. But at midnight Samson arose, and, breaking away bolts, bars, and 


460 


SAMSON. 


hinges, carried the gates to the top of a neighboring hill looking toward 
Hebron. Chap, xvi, 1-3. B. C. about 1120. (5) Delilah. After this Sam- 

son became infatuated with a woman of Sorek named Delilah, through 
whom the Philistine princes determined to get possession of his person. 
They supposed that his supernatural strength arose from an amulet that he 
wore, and offered to Delilah a tempting bribe if she would discover to them 
his secret. She entered into the agreement, and used all her arts and 
blandishments to persuade Samson to reveal it to her. He deceived her 
three times by false statements, but at last, teased into compliance, “ he 
told her all his heart,” and said, “ If I be shaven, then my strength will go 
from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any other man.” Delilah, 
satisfied that Samson had spoken the truth this time, sent word to the 
Philistines, who came bringing the promised reward. Then she made him 
sleep, his head upon her lap, cut off his 
hair, and gave the preconcerted signal, 

“ Philistines upon thee, Samson.” For- 
saken by Jehovah, he fell an easy prey 
to his enemies. (6) Imprisonment and 
Death. The Philistines put out Sam- 
son’s eyes, and led him, bound with fet- 
ters of brass, to Gaza, where he was 
made to grind corn in the prison. As 
this was an employment which in the 
East usually devolves on women/to as- 
sign it to such a man as Samson was 
virtually to reduce him to the lowest 
state of degradation and shame. After 
a time the unshorn locks of Samson re- 
covered their growth, the Philistines for 
some reason being inattentive thereto, 
and with it such a profound repentance 
seems to have wrought in his heart as 
virtually re-invested him with the char- 
acter and the powers he had lost. His captivity was regarded by the Philis- 
tines as a great victory, 
and he seems to have 
been kept by them, like 
a wild beast, for show 
and insult. On the oc- 
casion of a sacrificial 
festival to Dagon, to 
Assyrian fetters. whom they ascribed the 

capture of their enemy, they brought Samson from the prison that he might 
make sport for them. Determined to use his recovered strength against 
his enemies, a large number of whom crowded the building, Samson per- 
suaded the attendant to place him between the pillars upon which the roof 
rested. After a brief prayer he grasped the pillars, and, leaning forward 
with resistless force, brought down the building, causiug his own and the 
death of 3,000 Philistines. His relatives came to Gaza, took away his 
body, and placed it in the burying-place of his father, between Zorah and 
Eshtaol, Chap, xvi, 21-30. B. C. 1120. 




BLINDING A PRISONER, FROM AN 
ASSYRIAN MONUMENT. 


SAMUEL. 


461 


§. Character. The mention of Samson’s name in the list (ITeb. xi, 32) 
of ancient worthies “who had by faith obtained an excellent repute,” war- 
rants us in a favorable estimate of his character as a whole. And yet the 
inspired narrative records infirmities that must forever mar the luster of his 
heroic deeds. In Samson the Nazarite we see a man towering in supernat- 
ural strength through his firm faith in and confident reliance upon the gift 
of God committed to him. On the other hand we see in Samson an advent- 
urous, fool-hardy, passionate, and willful man, dishonoring and frittering 
away the God-given power by making it subservient to his own lusts. 

Difficulties.— Samson’s strength. The superhuman strength of Samson did 
not really lie in his hair, but in the fact of his relation to God as a Nazarite, of 
which his unshorn hair was the mark or sign. As soon as he broke away from his 
Nazariteship by sacrificing his hair, which he wore in honor of the Lord, Jehovah 
departed from him, and with Jehovah went his strength. Overthrow of Dagon’s 
temple. “ So far as the fact itself is concerned, there is no ground for question- 
ing the possibility of Samson’s bringing down the whole building by pulling down 
two middle columns. ... In all probability we have to picture this temple of Da- 
gon as resembling the modern Turkish kiosks, namely, as consisting of a ‘ spacious 
hall, the roof of which rested in front upon four columns, two of them standing at 
the ends, and two close together in the center. Under this hall the leading men of 
the Philistines celebrated a sacrificial meal, while the people were assembled upon 
the top of the roof, which was surrounded by a balustrade.’ Keil and Delitzsch, 
Commentary , in loco. 

SAM'UEL. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Shemuel', probably 

heard [or asked] of God.) The son of Elkanah, (q. v.,) a Levite of Rama- 
thaim-zophim on the mountains of Ephraim, and Hannah, to whom he was 
born in response to her earnest prayer. 1 Sam. i, 1-20. B. C. 1171. 

2. Personal History. (1) As a Child. When Hanuah prayed for a 
son she vowed to dedicate him to the Lord as a Nazarite, (chap, i, 11,) and 
as soon as he was weaned brought him to Shiloh and made him over to Eli. 
Chap, i, 24-28. Thus Samuel served as a boy before the Lord, clothed with 
an ephod, and receiving every year from his mother a mantle reaching 
down to his feet, such as was worn only by high personages, or women, over 
the other dress. Chap, ii, 11, 18, 19. (2) Call. At the time when Samuel 

served the Lord before Eli, both as a boy and as a young man, “ the word 
of the Lord was precious there was no open vision.” The word of the 
Lord was then issued to Samuel for the first time. While sleeping in his 
place, probably in the court of the tabernacle, where cells were built for the 
priests and Levites, Samuel heard his name called. Supposing it was Eli 
who had called him, he hastened to receive his commands, but Eli told 
him to lie down again as he had not called him. When, however, this was 
repeated a second and a third time, Eli perceived that the Lord had called 
Samuel, and instructed him how to act should he hear the voice again. The 
Lord made known to Samuel the doom of Eli’s house, which he reluctantly 
made known the next morning to the aged priest. Other revelations fol- 
lowed, and their exact fulfillment secured to Samuel a reputation for trust- 
worthiness that made Shiloh an oracle. Chap, iii, 1-21. (3) Judge. After 

the disastrous defeat of the Israelites by the Philistines (chap, iv, 1, sq.) 
Samuel does not appear again in history for a period of twenty years. Dur- 
ing the most of this time the ark of the Lord had rested in Kirjath-jearim, 
and all the house of Israel lamented after the Lord. Chap, vii, 1, 2. Samuel, 
who had learned that loyalty to Jehovah was necessary to secure to Israel 
deliverance from its foes, issued a proclamation exposing the sin of idolatry, 


462 


SAMUEL. 


and urging religious amendment. He summoned the tribes to assemble at 
Mizpeh, to spend a day in penitence and prayer. At this assembly Samuel 
seems to have been elected, or in some way recognized, as judge. Chap, 
vii, 3-6. (4) Eben-ezer. When the Philistines heard of the gathering at 

Mizpeh they made war upon the Israelites, who in their fear entreated Sam- 
uel not to cease to pray for their deliverance. The Philistines advanced 
while Samuel was engaged in sacrifice and prayer, but were thrown into 
confusion by a terrific thunder-storm sent by Jehovah. This was an unpre- 
cedented phenomenon in that climate at that season of the year. The 
enemies of Israel were defeated, and pursued to a place called Beth-car. 
As a memorial of the victory, Samuel placed a stone between Mizpeh and 
Shen, and named the place Eben-ezer, ( stone of help.) Chap, vii, 1-12. (5) Ju- 

dicial Labors. Samuel had now the entire government of the nation, and 
visited, in the discharge of his official duties, Betli-el, Gilgal, and Mizpeh. 
His own residence was in his native city, Eamah, (or Ramathaim,) where 
he judged Israel, and also built an altar to conduct the religious affairs of the 
nation. This was contrary to the letter of the law, but the prophets seem 
to have had power to dispense with ordinary usage; and, moreover, the 
tabernacle at Shiloh had lost what was most essential to it as a sanctuary 
since it had been despoiled of the ark by the Philistines. Chap, vii, 15-11. 
(6) The Monarchy. Samuel had appointed his sons as judges in his old 
age, and as they had perverted justice the elders of Israel entreated him to 
appoint them a king to judge them after the manner of all the nations. 
Chap, viii, 1-5. The proposed change of government displeased Samuel; 
nevertheless he laid the matter before Jehovah in prayer, and was instructed 
to accede to their request, though not without setting before them the perils 
and tyranny of a monarchical government. Chap, viii, 6-19. The people 
were sent to their homes, and Samuel proceeded to the election of a sov- 
ereign. Saul was pointed out by Jehovah as the man whom he was to set 
apart as king of Israel, and was anointed and saluted as monarch. Chap, viii, 
19-x, 8. After Samuel had privately anointed Saul king he made provision 
for his recognition as such by the people. He summoned the people to 
Mizpeh, but before proceeding to the election itself charged the people with 
their sin in rejecting God by their demand for a king. He then caused the 
sacred lot to be taken, and the lot fell upon Saul, who was formally intro- 
duced to the people. Chap, x, 11-25. (7) Renewal of the Monarchy. 

There were certain worthless people (“children of Belial”) who were op- 
posed to Saul’s elevation to the throno, but the victory of the Ammonites so 
influenced the people in his favor that Samuel convened the people at Gil- 
gal “ to renew the kingdom.” This consisted, probably, of a ratification of 
the new constitution and the installation of the sovereign. This solemn 
service was concluded by the farewell address of Samuel, in which he handed 
over the office of judge to the king. The address was confirmed by the 
miraculous sign of a thunder-storm in answer to the prayer of Samuel. It 
was then wheat harvest, which occurs in Palestine between the middle of 
May and the middle of June, during which time it scarcely ever rains. 
Chap, xi, 14— xii, 25. (8) Reproves Saul. Although Saul had begun his 

reign Samuel continued to exercise his functions as prophet and judge. 
He judged Israel “ all the days of his life,” (1 Sam. vii, 15,) and from time 
to time crossed the path of the king. Saul was engaged in war against the 
Philistines, and having mustered his forces at Gilgal awaited the coining of 


SAMUEL. 


468 


Samuel to sacrifice unto Jehovah. As Samuel did not appear at the time 
appointed, Saul, in his anxiety lest the people should lose heart and desert 
him, resolved to offer the sacrifice himself— a fearful violation of the na- 
tional law. The offering of the sacrifice was hardly finished when Samuel 
arrived, and, rebuking Saul for his presumption, made known to him the 
short continuance of his kingdom. He then left him and went unto Gibeah 
of Benjamin. Chap. xiii. 1—1 5. (9) Parts with Saul. Later we find Samuel 

charging Saul with the extirpation of the Amalekites, who had attacked, 
in a most treacherous manner, the Israelites on their journey from Egypt 
to Sinai. Saul was instructed to smite man and beast with the ban, (that 
is, to put all to death ;) but he not only left Agag, the king, alive, but 
spared the best of the cattle, and merely executed the ban upon such as 
were worthless. Samuel announced to him that his disobedience had se- 
cured for him the rejection by Jehovah. Saul entreated Samuel to remain 
and worship with him, but the latter refused and turned to depart. Saul 
endeavored to retain the prophet by force, and in the struggle the mantle of 
Samuel was torn, in which Samuel saw the omen of the rending away of 
the kingdom from Saul. Samuel yielded to the renewed entreaty of Saul 
that he would honor him by his presence before the elders and the people, 
and remained while Saul worshiped. After Saul had prayed Samuel directed 
him to bring Agag, king of the Amalekites, whom he slew before the altar 
of Jehovah, and then returned to his own home at Ramah. From that time 
they met no more, although Samuel did not cease to grieve for Saul. 1 Sam. 
xv, 1-35. (10) Anoints David. Since Saul had been rejected by God and 

the government was not to remain in his family, it was necessary, in order 
to prevent strife and confusion, that his successor should be appointed before 
the death of the king. Samuel was therefore instructed by the Lord to go to 
Bethlehem, and anoint David, the youngest son of Jesse, as the chosen one. 
The sacrificial meal over, Samuel returned to Ramah. Chap, xvi, 1-13. 
(11) Befriends David. When Saul, in his insane rage, endeavored to slay 
David, the latter fled to Samuel, and they two went and dwelt in Naioth. 
The king pursued David, but when he came to Naioth and saw Samuel and 
the prophets, the Spirit of the Lord came upon him also, and he was obliged 
to relinquish the attempt to seize him. Chap, xix, 18-24. (12) Death. In 

chap, xxv, 1, we have a very brief account of the death of Samuel and the 
great mourning made for him by the Israelites, who buried him in his own 
house. B. C. about 1060. The expression “his house” means the house 
in which he lived, with the court belonging to it, where Samuel was placed 
in a tomb erected especially for him. The place long pointed out as his 
tomb is the height, most conspicuous of all in the neighborhood of Jerusa- 
lem, immediately above the town of Gibeon, known to the Crusaders as 
“ Montjoye,” as the spot from whence they first saw Jerusalem, now called 
Neby Samwil, “ the prophet Samuel.” 

3. Character. In studying the character of Samuel it is impossible 
not to be impressed with his piety. Dedicated to the service of God by his 
mother, that service never became an irksome routine. God was the center 
around which he, as well as heaven, turned. In all his difficulties he re- 
paired to God for counsel. In all his acts and decisions he was guided by 
the word of Jehovah. His advice to the Israelites was the motto of his 
own life, “ Turn not aside from following the Lord, but serve the Lord with 
all your heart.” Nor was his patriotism less apparent. His object was not 


464 


SANBALLAT— SAPPHIRA. 


the possession of power, but the welfare of his people. Place, honor, and 
power were not sought by him ; but he by them. And when the people, 
without respect to his gray hairs and long service, called upon him to re- 
sign his office-, there was no feeble cry for pity, nor peevish reproach for 
their ingratitude. He challenges inspection of his character and official 
life ; remonstrates with Israel on their choice as being an act of disloyalty, 
not against himself, but Jehovah ; and warns them of the evils which would 
result from the establishment of a monarchy. And when Saul was selected 
as his successor, rising above the weaknesses of our nature, Samuel re- 
ceived him with the utmost courtesy, and treated him with even paternal 
kinduess. There is no more magnanimous thing in history. 

Difficulties.— (1) Samuel’s artifice, 1 Sam.xvi,2. The fear of Samuel on this 
occasion can only be explained on the supposition that Saul was already given up 
to the power of the evil spirit, so that the very worst might be dreaded if he dis- 
covered that Samuel had anointed another king. As to the artifice employed, 
“there was no untruth in this, for Samuel was really about to conduct a sacrificial 
festival, and was to invite Jesse’s family to it, and then anoint the one whom Je- 
hovah should point out to him as the chosen one. It was simply a concealment of 
the principal object of his mission from any who might make inquiry about it, be- 
cause they themselves had not been invited.”— Keil, Commentary , in loco. 
(2) Samuel’s ghost. See art. Saul. (3) Actsiii,24: “All the prophets from 
Samuel, and those that follow after.” Peter doubtless thus spoke because Samuel 
was the first of the regular succession of prophets. Moses, Miriam, and Deborah, 
perhaps Ebud, had been prophets, but it was only from Samuel that the continuous 
succession was unbroken. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopoedia, s. v.) 

SANBAL'LAT, (Heb. Sanballaf, t^GUD; the first syllable means, 

probably, strength, but the latter is of uncertain etymology,) a Moabite of 
Horonaim, as appears by his designation “ Sanballat the Horonite.” Neh. ii, 

10, 19; xiii, 28. All that we know of him from Scripture is that he had 
apparently some civil or military command in Samaria, in the service of Ar- 
taxerxes, (Neh. iv, 2,) and that, from the moment of Nehemiali’s arrival in 
Judea, he set himself to oppose every measure for the welfare of Jerusa- 
lem, and was a constant adversary to the Tirshatha. His companions in 
this hostility were Tobiah the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arabian. Neh. 

11, 19; iv, 1. B. C. 445. The only other incident in his life is his alliance 
with the high-priest’s family by the marriage of his daughter with one of 
the grandsons of Eliashib, (Neh. xiii, 28,) which, from the similar connection 
formed by Tobiah the Ammonite, (chap, xiii, 4,) appears to have been part of a 
settled policy concerted between Eliashib and the Samaritan faction. The ex- 
pulsion from the priesthood of the guilty son of Joiada by Nehemiah must 
have still further widened the breach between him and Sanballat, and be- 
tween the two parties in the Jewish state. Here, however, the scriptural 
narrative ends — owing, probably, to Nehemiah’s return to Persia — and with 
it likewise our knowledge of Sanballat. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

SAPH, (Heb. same, SDi a threshold , or dish,) a Philistine giant, of the 

race of Raplia, slain by Sibbechai the Hushathite. 2 Sam. xxi, 18. B. C. 
about 1018. He is called Sippai in 1 Chron. xx, 4. 

SAPPHI'RA, (Gr. ’Lantytipr), sapphire , or beautiful ,) the wife of Ananias* 
and accomplice in the sin for which he died. About three hours after the 
death of her husband she entered the place, unconscious of what had taken 
place. Questioned by Peter as to the price obtained for the land they had 
sold, she repeated the lie of her husband, and exposed herself to the fate of 


SARA — SARAH. 


465 


Ananias. Peter replied to her, “ How is it that ye have agreed together to 
tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried 
thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.” On hearing these 
words she fell dead at his feet. Acts v, 1-10. 

Difficulties.— Severity of punishment. The offense of Ananias and Sapphira, 
according to the average standard of human morality, was not a very heinous one. 
They had devoted a large sum to charity, they had defrauded no one, but had sim- 
ply retained their own and then denied the fact. The following considerations are 
offered in explanation by Whedon, ( Commentary , in loco :) “ 1. The divine Spirit 
being present with unparalleled power in the Church, the sin, as Peter says, (vers. 
3, 4,) is directly against him. 2. The reason for this selection was to present and 
record at this beginning of the Christian Church a representative and memorial 
instance of the just doom of the hypocrite. This couple were deliberate, positive, 
conceited, and intentionally permanent hypocrites. Their death was God’s dec- 
laration to all future ages of the true deserts of all deliberate hypocrites in the 
Church of Christ.” 

SA'RA, a Grecized form (Heb. xi, 11 ; 1 Pet. iii, 6) of Sarah. 

SA'RAH, the wife of the patriarch Abraham. 1. Name and Family. 
The original name of Sarah was Sarai, (q. v.,) and was changed at the same 
time that Abram’s name was changed to Abraham, namely, on the estab- 
lishment of the covenant of circumcision. The Hebrew name of Sarah is 
Sardh , mb', princess. Of her birth and parentage we have no certain ac- 
count in Scripture. In Gen. xx, 12, Abraham speaks of her as “my sister, 
the daughter of my father, but not the daughter of my mother,” which 
would make her his half-sister ; but the statement of Abraham is held by 
many to mean no more than that Haran, her father, was his half-brother, 
for the colloquial usage of the Hebrews in this matter makes it easy to un- 
derstand that he might call a niece a sister. In that case Abraham was 
really her uncle as well as husband. 

2. Personal History. As his wife, the history of Sarah is substantially 
that of Abraham. She came with him from Ur to Haran, (Gen. xi, 31,) 
from Haran to Canaau, (chap, xii, 5,) and accompanied him in all his wan- 
derings. (1) Taken by Pharaoh. When Abraham went down into Egypt 
he arranged with Sarah that she should announce herself as his sister, fear- 
ing for his life on account of her beauty. Although she was then sixty- 
five years of age, so beautiful did she appear to the Egyptians that she was 
taken by Pharaoh ; but, plagued by Jehovah, he returned her to Abraham 
with a reproof for his untruthfulness. Chap, xii, 10-20. (2) Hagar. Hav- 

ing no children of her own, Sarah gave to Abraham her Egyptian hand- 
maid, Hagar, who became the mother of Ishmael. Chap, xvi, 1-16. Later 
she demanded that Hagar and Ishmael should be cast out from all rivalry 
with herself and Isaac, (chap, xxi, 9, sq .,) a demand symbolically applied 
(Gal. iv, 22-31) to the displacement of the old covenant by the new. 
(3) Abimelech. After the destruction of Sodom Abraham removed to the 
south country, and remained for some time in Gerar. Here Abimelech, the 
Philistine king, took Sarah, whom Abraham had again announced to be his 
sister, into his harem, probably to ally himself with Abraham, the rich 
nomad prince. Warned by God in a dream. Abimelech restored Sarah to 
her husband. Gen. xx, 1-18. (4) Birth of Isaac. Jehovah fulfilled his 

promise to Sarah, and at the appointed time she gave birth to Isaac. Chap, 
xxi, 1-3. This was recognized at the time, and later by Paul, (Rom. iv, 19,) 
as a miracle, both Sarah and Abraham being advanced in years. (5) Death, 


466 


SARAI— SARSECHIM. 


Thirty-seven years after the birth of Isaac, and when she had reached the 
age of 121, Sarah died at Hebron, and was buried in the cave of Machpelah. 
Gen. xxiii, 1-3. B. C. 1860. Isaiah is the only prophet who names 
Sarah. Chap, li, 2. Paul alludes to her hope of becoming a mother, (Rom. 
iv, 19,) and afterward cites the promise which she received, (Rom. ix, 9,) and 
Peter eulogizes her submission to her husband. 1 Pet. iii, 6. 

SA'RAI, (Heb. Saray ', perhaps contentious ,) the original name of 

Sarah, and always used in the history from Gen. xi, 29, to xvii, 15. 

SA / RAPH, (Heb. Saraph Ppb>, burning ,) one of the descendants of 

Shelali, the son of Judah, (1 Chron. iv, 22,) who seems to have lived about 
the time of the entrance of Israel into Canaan, as he is said to have had 
dominion in Moab. B. C. about 1451. 

SAR'GON, (Heb. Sargon ji-HD , prince of the sun , or firm king,) “ one of 

the greatest of the Assyrian kings. He is mentioned by name only once in 
Scripture. Isa. xx, 1. Vitringa, Olferliaus, Eichhorn, and Hupfeld identified 
him with Shalmaneser : Grotius, Lowth, and Keil with Sennacherib ; Peri- 
zonius, Kalinsky, and Michaelis with Ksarhaddon. The Assyrian inscrip- 
tions prove Sargon to have been distinct from the several monarehs named, 
and fix his place in the list between Shalmaneser and Sennacherib. He 
was certainly Sennacherib’s father, and there is no reason to doubt that he 
was his immediate predecessor. He ascended the throne of Assyria, as we 
gather from his annals, in the same year that Merodach-baladan ascend- 
ed the throne of Babylon, which, according to Ptolemy’s Canon, was 
B. C. 721. He seems to have been a usurper, and was undoubtedly a great 
and successful warrior. In his annals, which cover a space of fifteen years, 
(from B. C. 721 to B. C. 706,) he gives an account of his warlike expeditions 
against Babylonia and Susiana on the south, Media on the east, Armenia 
and Cappadocia toward the north, Syria, Palestine, Arabia, and Egypt to- 
ward the west and the south-west. In this last direction he seems to have 
waged three wars — one in his second year, (B. C. 720,) for the possession of 
Gaza; another in his sixth year, (B. C. 715,) when Egypt itself was the 
object of attack; and a third in his ninth, (B. C. 712,) when the special 
subject of contention was Ashdod, which Sargon took by one of his generals. 
This is the event which causes the mention of Sargon’s name in Scripture. 
The year of the attack, being B. C. 712, would fall into the reign of the first 
Ethiopian king, Sabaco I., who probabty conquered Egyptdn B. C. 714. It 
is not as a warrior only that Sargon deserves special mention among the 
Assyrian kings. He was also the builder of useful works, and of one of the 
most magnificent of the Assyrian palaces. He probably reigned nineteen 
years, from B. C. 721 to B. C. 702, when he left the throne to his sou, the 
celebrated Sennacherib.” — Smith, Dictionary , s. v. • 

SAR'SECHIM, (Heb. Sarsekim probably prince of the eu- 
nuchs ,) one of the generals of Nebuchadnezzar’s army at the taking of Jeru- 
salem. Jer. xxxix, 3. B. C. 588. He appears to have held the office of 
chief eunuch. In Jer. xxxix, 13, Nebushasban is called Rab-saris, “ chief 
eunuch ; ” and the question arises whether Nebushasban and Sarsechim may 
not be names of the same person. In Geseuius’s Thesaurus it is conjectured 


SARttcfi — saIjl. 46? 

that Sarsechim and Rab-saris may be identical, and both titles of the same 
office. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

SA'RUCH, (Gr. 2 apovx,) the Greek form (Luke iii, 35) of the name of 
the patriarch Serug, (q. v.) 

SAUL, (Heb. Shaiil ', asked for, desired.) 

1. An early king of the Edomites, successor of Samlah at “ Rehoboth by 
the river.” Gen. xxxvi, 37, 38. In 1 Chron. i, 48, he is called Shaul. 

2. The first king of Israel. 1. Family. Saul was the son of Kish, of 
the tribe of Benjamin, a powerful and wealthy chief, although the family to 
which he belonged was of little importance. 1 Sam. ix, 1, 21. The time 
aud place of Saul’s birth are not given. 

2. Personal History. The Israelites had been since Joshua under the 
rule of judges raised up by God to meet emergencies that arose through the 
defection aud idolatry of the people. “ In those days there was no king in 
Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” Judg. xxi, 25. 
The corrupt administration of Samuel’s sons furnished the Hebrews an oc- 
casion for rejecting the theocracy. 1 Sam. viii. This, together with an in- 
vasion of the Ammouites and a love of novelty, conspired in prompting the 
demand for a king. Samuel, instructed by God, granted it, but told the 
people the evils that would follow. They still persisted in their demand, 
and Saul was introduced into history. The reign of Saul may be divided 
into two periods : I. The establishment and vigorous development of his 
regal supremacy. 1 Sam. viii-xv. II. The- decline and overthrow of his 
monarchy. Chaps, xvi-xxxi. I. The establishment of a monarchy is 
introduced by the negotiations of the elders of Israel with Samuel concern- 
ing the appointment of a king. Chap. viii. This is followed by (1) Meeting 
of Saul with Samuel. Having been sent by his father after some strayed 
asses, Saul went with his servant through the mountains of Ephraim, then 
through Shalisha and Shalim, aud after that through the land of Benjamin, 
without finding the asses. Arrived at Zuph, he determined to return home, 
because he was afraid that his father would trouble himself about them, 
(Saul and the servant.) But his servant proposed that they should go and 
consult the man of God who was in the city near at hand, and learn from 
him what they should do. Samuel, having been forewarned by God, met 
Saul at the gate of the city, told him that he was the one for whom he 
looked, and invited him to the feast, assuring him that the asses were found. 
He awakened the expectation of Saul by the question, “ And on whom is 
the desire of all Israel ? Is it not on thee and on all thy father’s house ? ” 
1 Sam. ix, 20. (2) Saul Anointed. Early the next day they arose, and, the 

servant having been sent on before, “ Samuel took a vial of oil aud poured 
it upon Saul’s head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the Lord 
hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance? ” Chap, ix, 27 ; x, 1. 
To confirm the consecration, Samuel gave him three signs which should oc- 
cur on his journey home : first, two men at the tomb of Rachel should meet 
him, and tell him of the finding of the asses, and the anxiety of Saul’s father 
for him ; second, three men should be met in the plain of Tabor, going with 
sacrifices to Beth-el, and they should give Saul two loaves from their offer- 
ings ; third, at Gibeah he should meet a company of prophets, and he him- 
self should prophesy. Chap, x, 2-13. (3) Chosen King. The mysterious 

interview with Samuel did not seem to suffice for the full acknowledgment 


468 


SAUL. 


of Saul as king. Samuel, therefore, called a national assembly at Mizpeb, 
and there instructed the tribes to choose a king by lot. The result of 
the lot being regarded as a divine decision, Saul was accredited by this act 
in the sight of the whole nation as the king appointed by the Lord, and he 
himself more fully assured of the certainty of his own election on the part 
of God. Saul was hiding away, but was found, brought before the people, 
and introduced to them by Samuel, and received by them with the cry, 
“ God save the king 1 ” He returned to Liis home in Gibeah, followed by a 
band of men “ whose hearts God had touched.” But he already began to 
taste the bitterness of royalty, for there were some who said, “ How shall 
this man save us?” Chap, x, 13-27. B. C. 1095. (4) Victory over the 

Ammonites. Nahash, the king of the Ammonites, laid siege to Jabesh in 
Gilead, and only consented to treat with its inhabitants on the condition 
that he should put out their right eyes. They asked for seven days in 
which to send among their brethren for help. They dispatched messengers 
to Gibeah, and, probably unaware of the election of Saul, stated their case 
to the people. Returning from the field, Saul learned the tidings from Ja- 
besh, and the Spirit of the Lord came upon him. Deeply angered, he* 
hewed in pieces a yoke of oxen and sent them through all Israel, calling 
the people to rally about him for the defense of their countrymen. They 
came together at Bezek to the number of 300,000. The next day Saul ar- 
ranged the army into three divisions, who forced their way into the camp 
of the foe from three different sides, and routed them completely. Chap, xi, 
1-11. (5) Renewal of the Monarchy. After the victory the people were 

so enthusiastic in favor of Saul that they demanded the death of those who 
had spoken against him as king. Saul refused to grant them their request, 
saying, “There shall not a man be put to death this day; for to-day the 
Lord hath wrought salvation in Israel.” Samuel called the people to Gilgal, 
where the election of Saul was confirmed. Chap, xi, 12-15. (6) Saul’s first 

Transgression. In the second year of his reign Saul set to work systematic- 
ally to deliver Israel from their enemies. He gathered 3,000 select men, (the 
beginning of a standing army,) 2,000 being with himself, and the other 1,000 
with Jonathan. Jonathan smote the garrison of the Philistines in Geba, 
which became the signal of war, Saul summoning the people to assemble in 
Gilgal. The Philistines gathered a great army, 30,000 chariots, 6,000 horse- 
men, and foot soldiers as the sand by the sea-shore, and encamped in Michmash. 
Saul waited seven days for Samuel’s coming, but as he did not come the people 
began to disperse and leave Saul, who then resolved that he would offer the 
sacrifices without the presence of the prophet. Scarcely was the ceremony 
over when Samuel arrived and asked Saul what he had done. Saul pleaded 
the danger he was in, and his desire to secure the favor of Heaven ; but the 
prophet rebuked him, and told him that his kingdom should not continue, 
that is, to his descendants. Chap, xiii, 1-14. (7) Saul Deserted. Saul did 

not even accomplish the object of his unreasonable sacrifice, namely, to 
prevent the dispersion of the people. When he mustered the people still 
with him there were only 600 men. Chap, xiii, 15. The Philistines overran 
the country, and the Israelites could not offer a successful resistance, for 
they were disarmed, and “ there was no smith found throughout all the 
land of Israel : for the Philistines said, Lest the Hebrews make them swords 
or spears. Ver. 19. (8) Saul’s Oath. Jonathan, with a few faithful fol- 
lowers, made an assault upon the Philistine garrison at Michmash, which 


SAUL. 


469 


resulted in a panic in the camp, so that they slew one another. The spies of 
Saul at G-ibeah saw the engagement, and the king called for the ark and 
high-priest to consult as to what he should do. The tumult in the camp of 
the Philistines increasing, he rushed to the pursuit, driving the foe down 
the pass of Bethaven as far as Aijalon. But by a rash denunciation he 
(a) impeded his success, (chap, xiv, 30 ;) ( b ) involved the people in a viola- 
tion of the law, (vers. 32, 33 ;) and (c) unless prevented by the people,' 
would have put Jonathan to death for tasting innocently of food. Saul re- 
turned from the pursuit of the Philistines. Chap, xiv, 1-46. (9) Other 

Wars. By this victory over the Philistines Saul tirst really secured the 
regal authority over the Israelites. He afterward gained victories over 
Moab, the Ammonites, Edorn, the kings of Zobah, the Philistines again, 
and the Amalekites. Vers. 47, 48. Mention is now made of his family and 
of his commander-in-chief, Abner. Vers. 49, 50. B. C. 1087. (10) Dis- 
obedience and Rejection. Samuel, by divine commission, commanded Saul, 
as the king anointed by Jehovah through him, to destroy Amalek. He was 
to smit-; and ban every thing belonging to it, mau and beast. Chap, xv, 3. 
Saul mustered the people at Telaim, 200,000 foot and 10,000 men of Judah. 
li And Saul smote the Amalekites from Havilah until thou contest to Shur, 
that is over against Egypt.” But he disobeyed the divine injunction by tak- 
ing Agag, the king, alive, and sparing all the best of the cattle and all that 
was valuable, destroying only that which was vile and refuse. Instead of 
pursuing the campaign aud finishing the destruction of the fugitives, he 
returned to Gfilgal. Samuel, informed by God of the king’s disobedience, went 
to Saul, who informed him that he had fulfilled the divine command ; but 
the bleating of the sheep and the lowing of the oxen revealed his crime. 
Saul pleaded that the people wished to offer sacrifice to the Lord in Gilgal. 
Samuel then reminded the king of the low estate from which God had 
brought him, of the superiority of obedience to sacrifice, and, although Saul 
acknowledged his sin, reiterated the sentence of rejection. As he turned 
to depart Saul seized the prophet’s mantle with such despairing energy that 
it was rent, whereupon Samuel said that even so had Jehovah rent his 
kingdom from him and given it to another. Samuel then sent for Agag 
and hewed him in pieces before the Lord, and departed in grief from Saul to 
see him no more. Chap. xv. II. Saul’s Decline and Overthrow. Saul 
was not immediately deposed, but the consequences of his rejection 
were speedily brought to light. (1) David’s Introduction to Saul. “ The 
Spirit of the* Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord 
troubled him.” When his attendants perceived the condition of the king, 
they advised him to have the evil spirit charmed away by music, and 
upon Saul consenting they recommended David, who was still residing 
with his father, although he had been anointed king by Samuel. David was 
sent for, and pi iyed upon his harp. “ So Saul was refreshed, and was 
well, and the evil spirit departed from him.” Chap, xvi, 14-23. B. C. about 
1063. (2) Saul’s Conduct to David. The overthrow of the Philistine 

giant (Goliath) by David, and his conduct when brought before Saul, won 
for him the love of Jonathan. The wisdom of his subsequent conduct made 
him acceptable to the men of war and the people, and secured for him the 
praise of the women who celebrated the overthrow of the Philistines. This 
aroused the jealousy and rage of Saul, who commenced a series of murder- 
ous attempts upon the life of David, whom he seems to have regarded as a 


470 


SAUL. 


rival. He twice attempted to assassinate him with his own hand, (chap, 
xviii, 10, 11; xix, 10;) he sent him on dangerous military expeditions, 
(chap, xviii, 13-11 ;) he gave him Michal, his daughter, to wife, hoping that 
the dowry demanded (a hundred foreskins of the Philistines) would endan- 
ger Daviu’s life. Chap, xviii, 22-27. He seems to have been willing to 
make any sacrifice in order to effect his purpose against David, sending 
men even to Samuel at Ramah, whither David had fled, (chap, xix, IS, (q. ;) 
attempting, as the text (chap, xx, 33) would seem to indicate, the life of his 
son Jonathan; slaying Ahimelech, the priest, (chap, xxii, 11-19,) under pre- 
tense of his being a partisan of David, and eighty-five other priests of the 
house of Eli, to whom nothing could be imputed, as well as the whole 
population of Nob. This crime of Saul put David in possession of the sacred 
lot, which Abiathar, the only surviving member of Eli’s priestly family, 
brought with Jiim, and by which he was enabled to obtain divine direction 
in his critical affairs. Chap, xxii, 20, 23; xxiii, 1, 2. Having compelled 
David to assume the position of au outlaw, Saul then took measures to ap- 
prehend aud destroy him, (chap, xxiii, 9, sq . ,) and, although spared by Da- 
vid when in the latter’s power at Engedi, (chap xxiv,) took Michal and gave 
her to Phalti for wife. Chap, xxv, 44. After David had again shown his 
respect for the Lord’s anointed by sparing the king while asleep in his camp 
upon the hill of Hachilah, Saul acknowledged his fault, and said to David, 
“ Blessed be thou, my son David ; thou shalt both do great things, and also 
shalt still prevail.” And he followed after David no more. Chap. xxvi. 
B. C. about 1060. (3) Saul with the Witch at Endor. Another invasion 

of Israel by the Philistines drove King Saul to despair, so that, in utter 
helplessness, he had recourse to ungodly means of inquiring into the future. 
He had “ put away those that had familiar spirits, and the wizards, out of the 
land.” Chap, xxviii, 3. But now Samuel was dead, and, receiving no oracle 
from God, Saul, desperate and infatuated, commanded his servants (ver. 7) 
to seek for a woman that had a familiar spirit. They directed him to the 
woman of Endor. Assured' by Saul that no evil should happen her, she 
asked, “Whom shall I bring up unto thee?” And he said, “Bring me up 
Samuel.” The woman began her conjuring arts, and “ when she saw Sam- 
uel she cried aloud, Why hast thou deceived me ? for thou art Saul. The 
king quieted her fear, and then asked her what she had seen. From her 
description Saul immediately recognized Samuel. Then followed a conver- 
sation in which Saul tells of his deep distress because of the Philistines, 
and Samuel replies that Jehovah had torn the kingdom out of his hand and 
given it to David, because he had disobeyed him in sparing the Amalekites. 
He foretold his defeat by the Philistines, and added that on the morrow 
Saul and his sons should be with him among the dead. Saul fell prostrate 
to the earth, faint with terror and exhaustion, for he had fasted all the day 
and night. Urged by the woman and his servants, he partook of food and 
returned to his camp. Chap, xxviii, 7-25. (4) Death and Burial. The t\\ o 

armies arrayed against each other soon came to an engagement in the plain 
of Jezrecl, (chap, xxix, 1,) but the Israelites, being obliged to yield, fled up 
the mountains of Gilboa, and were pursued and slain there. Chap, xxxi, 1. 
The hottest pursuit was made after Saul and those who kept around him. 
His three sons, Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malehishua, were slain, and he 
himself was mortally wounded. He begged his armor-bearer to slay him, 
that he might not fall into the hands of the uncircumcised. On his refusal,* 


SAUL. 


471 


I 

Saul fell upon his own sword and died. The day following, when the Phi- 
listines stripped the dead, they found Saul and his three sons, and having 
cut off their heads, sent 
them as trophies into 
their own land. They 
also fastened their bod- 
ies to the wall of Betli- 
sliau ; but the men of Ja- 
besh-gilead came, took 
down the bodies, burned 
them, and buried them 
under a tree in Jabesh. 

Chap. xxxi. B. C. about 
1056. The news of Saul’s 
death was speedily 
brought to David at Zik- 
lag, who mourned deep- 
ly because thereof, and 
slew the Amalekite who 
claimed to have killed 
the king. 2 Sam. i, 1, sq. 

Besides the children al- 
ready mentioned Saul 
left another son, Ish- 
bosheth, who was short- 
ly afterward proclaimed 
king by Abner, and two 
sons, Armoni and Me- 
phibosheth, by his con- 
cubine Rizpah. 2 Sam. 
xxi, 8. The length of Saul’s reign was forty years. B. C. 1095-1056. 

3. Character. There is not in sacred history a character more melan- 
choly to contemplate than that of Saul. He was naturally humble and 
modest, though of strong passions. His natural rashness was controlled 
neither by a powerful understanding nor a scrupulous conscience, and the 
obligations of duty and ties of gratitude, always felt by him too slightly, 
were totally disregarded when ambition, envy, and jealousy had taken pos- 
session of his mind. He seems never to have accepted God unconditionally 
and trusted him implicitly, but, as the names of his children would indicate, 
wavered between the worship of God and the old heathenish superstition. 
Now he would be under the influence of prophetic inspiration, again the 
slave of his common pursuits. At one time pleading with the prophet to 
reveal to him the will of Jehovah, at another disobeying his commands. 
Now driving out of the land all having familiar spirits, only to consult aft- 
erward the witch of Endor. In him, also, is seen that moral anomaly or 
contradiction, which would be incredible did we not so often witness it, of 
an individual pursuing habitually a course which his better nature pro- 
nounces not only sinful but insane. 1 Sam. xxiv, 16-22. 

Difficulties.— ( 1) Armies, numbers, etc. 1 Sam. xl, 8. Saul mustered at Be- 
zek 300,000 men of Israel, and 30,000 of Judah. These numbers will not appear 
so large if we bear in mind that the allusion is not to a regular army, but that 

20 * 



SAUL’S LAST BATTLE. 


472 


SCEYA— SECUNDUS. 


Saul had summoned all the people to a general levy. In the distinction drawn 
between the children of Judah and the children of Israel we may already discern 
a trace of that separation of Judah from the rest of the tribes which eventually led 
to a formal secession on the part of the latter. 1 Sam. xiii, 5. Here we meet an 
instance of manifest error in the text. 30,000 war chariots bear no proportion to 
6,000 horsemen, not only because the number of chariots is invariably smaller than 
that of the horsemen, (compare 2 Sam. x, 18 ; 1 Kings x, 26 ; 2 Chron. xii, 3,) but 
also because such a number of chariots is never- met with in sacred or profane 
history. The number should be 3,000 or 1,000, and in the latter case the origin of 

the number thirty must be attributed to the fact that the ^ (Hebrew numeral for 
thirty) of the word Israel , was written twice, and consequently the sec- 

ond ^ was taken for the numeral thirty. (Keil.) (2) Sacrifice at Gilgal. The 

punishment of Saul for offering sacrifice appears a severe one, but we must re- 
member that Samuel had instructed Saul, as a direct command from Jehovah, to 
await his arrival. Saul should not have doubted that God would have sent his 
prophet at the right time, and should have regarded any delay as a test of his faith. 
His conductshowed clearly enough that he thought he could make war without the 
counsel or assistance of God. (3) Destruction of Amalekites. (1 Sam. xv, 3.) 
They who represent this sentence as unworthy of God should ask on what prin- 
ciple the execution of a criminal under human governments can be defended. 
If men judge that the welfare of society demands the destruction of one of their 
fellows, surely God, who can better judge what the interests of his government 
require, and has a more perfect right to dispose of men’s Jives, may cut off by the 
sword whom, without any imputation of injustice, he might destroy by disease <>r 
famine. (Kitto.) (4) Saul’s evil spirit. The “evil spirit from the Lord,” which 
came into Saul in the place of the “ Spirit of the Lord,” was not merely an in- 
ward feeling of depression at the rejection announced to him, which grew into 
melancholy, and occasionally broke out in passing fits of insanity, but a higher 
evil power which took possession of him, and not only deprived him of his peace 
of mind, but stirred up the feelings, ideas, imagination, and thoughts of his soul 
to such an extent that at times it drove him even to madness. This demon is 
called “ an evil spirit (coming) from the Lord,” because Jehovah had sent it as a 
punishment. (Keil.) (5) Saul and the witch. This incident introduces the whole 
subject of witchcraft, and cannot be discussed here. There are many explana- 
tions of this story offered, some of which we shall briefly mention. Keil (Com- 
mentary) suggests that she was not able to conjure up departed spirits, or if so, 
that the appearance of Samuel differed essentially from every thing that she had 
effected or experienced before ; that her recognition of Saul after Samuel ap- 
peared may be easily explained if we assume that she had fallen into a state of 
clairvoyance. Some consider the whole affair gotten up by Saul’s attendants, 
some one of them personating Samuel. “ Others have given a literal interpreta- 
tion of the story, and have maintained that Samuel really appeared to Saul. 
Others have given another interpretation, namely, that the whole account is the 
narrative of a miracle, a divine representation or impression partly upon the 
senses of Saul, and partly upon those of the woman.”— Kit to. 

SCE'VA, (Gr. Skeuas', 2/ceudf,) a Jew of Ephesus, described as a “ liigli- 
priest,” (Acts xix, 14-16.) either as having exercised the office at Jerusa- 
lem, or as being chief of one of the twenty-four classes. His seven sons 
attempted to exorcise spirits by using the name of Jesus, and on one occa- 
sion severe injury was inflicted by the demoniac on two of them, (as im- 
plied in the term uptyoTcpwv, both , the true reading in ver. 16.) 

SE'BA, (Heb. Seba', fcOD,) the oldest son of Cush, and hence a country 

and people among the Cushites. Gen. x, 7 ; 1 Chron. i, 9. B. C. before 
2218. 

SECUN'DUS, a Thessalonian Christian, and one of the party who went 
with the apostle Paul from Corinth as far as Asia, probably to Troas or Mi- 
letus, on his return from his third missionary visit. Acts xx, 4. A. D. 
60, (55.) 


SEGUB— SENNACHERIB. 


473 


SE'GUB, (Heb. Segub', elevated.) 

1. The youngest son of Hiel the Bethelite and rebuilder of Jericho. Se- 
gub died for his father’s sin, (1 Kings xvi, 34,) according to Joshua’s pre- 
diction, “ Cursed be the man before the Lord, that riseth up and buildeth 
this city Jericho : he shall lay the foundation thereof in his first-born, and 
in his youngest son shall he set up the gates of it.” Josh, vi, 26. B. C. 
about 910. 

2. The son of Hezron (grandson of Judah) by the daughter of Machir, 
the “father” of Gilead. He was himself the father of Jair. 1 Chron. ii, 
21, 22. B. C. after 1706. 

SE'LED, (Hob. same, exultation ,) a descendant of Jerahmeel, of 

the tribe of Judah. He was the elder of two sons of Nadab, and died 
childless. 1 Chron. ii, 30. B. C. after 1471. 

SEM, (Gr. 2^,) the Grecized form (Luke iii, 36) of the name of Shem, 
(q. v.) 

SEMACHTAH, (Heb. SemaJcya'hu , ^rppDDj sustained of Jehovah ,) the 

last-named of the six sons of Shemaiab, the son of Obed-edom. 1 Chron. 
xxvi, 7. B. C. about 1015. 

SEM'EI, (Gr. 2 e(iei,) the son of Joseph and father of Mattathias in our 
Lord’s genealogy, (Luke iii, 26 ,) probably Shemaiah, (q. v.) 

SEN'AAH, or SENA' AH, (Heb. Senaah', nKJD, thorny.) The “ chil- 
dren of Senaah” are enumerated among the “people of Israel” who re- 
turned from the captivity with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 35 ; Neh. vii, 38. In 
Neh. iii, 3, the name is given with the article, has-Senaah. See Hassenah. 
The names in these lists are mostly those of towns ; but Senaah does not 
occur elsewhere in the Bible as attached to a town. The Magdal-Senna, or 
“great Senna, ”'of Eusebius and Jerome, seven miles north of Jericho, 
(“Senna,”) however, is not inappropriate in position. Bertheau suggests 
that Senaah represents, not a single place, but a district ; but there is noth- 
ing to corroborate this. (Smith, Dictionary, s. v.) 

SENNACH'ERIB, or SENNACHE'RIB, (Heb. Sancherib', nnroD, 

in the cuneiform, Sinachirib, Sin [that is, the Moon] increases brothers ,) a 
famous Assyrian monarch. 

1. Personal History. Sennacherib was the son and successor of Sar- 
gon. He ascended the throne B. C. 702. (1) Eastern Wars. His first 

efforts were directed to crushing the revolt of Babylonia, which he invaded 
with a large army. Merodach-baladan ventured on a battle, but was de- 
feated and driven from the country. Sennacherib then made Belibus, an 
officer of his court, viceroy, and, quitting Babylonia, ravaged the lands of 
the Aramaean tribes on the Tigris and Euphrates, carrying off 200,000 
captives. In the ensuing year he made war upon the independent tribes in 
Mount Zagros, and penetrated into Media, where he reduced a portion of the 
nation which had previously been independent. (2) Western Wars. In 
his third year (B. C. 700) he turned his arms toward the west, chastised 
Sidon, took tribute from Tyre, Aradus, and the other Phenician cities, as 
well as from Edom and Ashdod, besieged and captured Ascalon, made war 
30 


474 


SERAH. 


on Egypt, which was still dependent on Ethiopia, took Libnah and Lacliish 
on the Egyptian frontier. (3) Conquest of Judah. Having probably con- 
cluded a convention with his chief enemy, he finally marched against Heze- 
kiah, king of Judah. It was at this time that “ Sennacherib came up against 
all the fenced cities of Judah, and took them.” 2 Kings xviii, 13. There can 
be no doubt that the record which he has left of his campaign against 
“ Hiskiah ” in his third year is the war with Hezekiah so briefly touched 
in the four verses of this chapter. Vers. 13-16. In the following year (B. C. 
699) Sennacherib invaded Babylonia for the second time. It was perhaps 
in this same year that Sennacherib made his second expedition into Pales- 
tine. Hezekiah had again revolted, and claimed the protection of Egypt. 
Instead, therefore, of besieging Jerusalem, the Assyrian king marched past 
it to the Egyptian frontier, attacked once more Laehish and Libnah, but ap- 
parently failed to take them, sent messengers from the former to Hezekiah, 
(2 Kings xviii, 17,) and on their return without his submission wrote him a 
threatening letter. 2 Kings xix, 14. Tirhaka was hastening to the aid of 
the Egyptians when an event occurred which relieved both Egypt and Ju- 
dea from their danger. In one night the Assyrians lost, either by a pesti- 
lence or by some more awful manifestation of divine power, 185,000 men! 
The camp immediately broke up — the king fled, but reached his capital in 
safety. The “Annals of Sennacherib” fully describe and agree wiili the 
Scripture account of this expedition. (See Rawlinson, Historical Illustra- 
tions of Old Testament , pp. 141, 142. (4) Other Wars. In his fifth year he 

led an expedition into Armenia and Media ; after which, from his sixth to 
his eighth year, he was engaged in wars with Susiana and Babylonia. From 
this point his annals fail us. (5) Reign. Sennacherib reigned twenty-two 
years. The date of his accession is fixed by the Canon of Ptolemy to 
B. C. 702, the first year of Belibus, or Elibus. The date of his death is 
marked in the same document by the accession of Asaridanus (Esar-Had- 
don) to the throne of Babylon in B. C. 680. The monuments are in exact 
conformity with these dates, for the twenty-second year of Sennacherib has 
been found upon them, while they have not furnished any notice of a later 
year. It is impossible to reconcile these dates with the chronology of Heze- 
kiah’s reign, according to the numbers of the present Hebrew text. 

2. Character. “ Sennacherib was one of the most magnificent of the 
Assyrian kings. He seems to have been the first who fixed the seat of 
government permanently at Nineveh, which he carefully repaired and 
adorned with splendid buildings. His greatest work is the grand palace at 
Koyunjik. He also erected monuments in distant countries. Of the death 
of Sennacherib nothing is known beyond the brief statement of Scripture, 
that 4 as he was worshiping in the house of Nisroch his god, Adrammelech 
and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword, and escaped iuto the land 
of Armenia.’ 2 Kings xix, 37 ; Isa. xxxvii, 38.” — Smith, Dictionary , s. v. 

SE'RAH, (Heb. Se'rach , m^, perhaps overflow; written Sarah in Num. 

xxvi, 46,) the daughter of Asher, the son of Jacob. Gen. xlvi, 17 ; Num. 
xxvi, 46 ; 1 Chron. vii, 30. B. C. about 1706. The mention of her name in 
a list of this kind, in which no others of her sex are named, and contrary 
to the usual practice of the. Jews, seems to indicate something extraordinary 
in connection with her history or circumstances. The Jews have a tradition 
that she was very remarkable for piety and virtue, and was therefore privi- 


SERAIAH — SERGIUS PAULUS. 


475 


leged to be the first person to tell Jacob that his son Joseph was still liv- 
ing ; on which account she was translated to paradise, where, according to 
the ancient book Zohar, are four mansions, each presided over by an illus- 
trious woman, namely, Sarah, daughter of Aslier ; the daughter of Pharaoh 
who brought up Moses ; Jochebed, the mother of Moses ; and Deborah, the 
prophetess. (M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopcedia , s. v.) 

SERAI' AH, (Heb. Serayah ', warrior of Jehovah.) 

1. The scribe (or secretary) of David. 2 Sam. viii, 17. B. C. 1040. In 
other places the name is corrupted into “ Sheva,” (2 Sam. xx, 25 ;) “ Shisha,” 
(1 Kings iv, 3 ;) and “ Shavsha.” 1 Chron. xviii, 16. 

2. The son of Azariah, and high-priest in the reign of Zedekiah. 2 Kings 
xxv, 18 ; 1 Chron. vi, 14 ; Ezra vii, 1. When Jerusalem was captured by 
the Chaldeans, B. C. 588, he was sent as prisoner to Nebuchadnezzar at 
Riblah, and there put to death. Jer. lii, 24-27. 

3. An Israelite, the son of Tanhumeth the Netophathite, and one of those 
to whom Gedaliah advised submission to the Chaldeans. 2 Kings xxv, 23 ; 
Jer. xl, 8. B. C. 588. 

4. The second son of Kenaz, and father of a Joab who was a head of a 
family of the tribe of Judah in the valley of Charashim. 1 Chron. iv, 13, 14. 
B. C. about 1444. 

5. Son of Asiel and father of Josibiah, of the tribe of Simeon. 1 Chron. 
iv, 35. B. C. before 720. 

6. A priest who returned from the captivity. Ezra ii, 2 ; Neh. xii, 1, 12. 
B. C. 536. He is perhaps the same who is mentioned (Nell, x, 2) as sealing 
the covenant with Nehemiah as 14 ruler of the house of God.” Chap, xi, 11. 

7. The son of Azriel, and one of the persons commanded by King Jehoi- 
akim to apprehend Jeremiah and Baruch. Jer. xxxvi, 26. B. C. about 606. 

8. The son of Neriah and brother of Baruch. Jer. li, 59, 61. He went 
with Zedekiah to Babylon in the fourth year of his reign, and is described 
as sar menUchdh , (literally, “prince of rest; ” Authorized Version, “ a quiet 
prince ; ” marg., “ or, prince of Menuchah, or, chief chamberlain,”) a title 
which is interpreted by Kimchi as that of the office of chamberlain. Per- 
haps he was an officer who took charge of the royal caravan on its march, 
and fixed the place where it should halt. Seraiah was sent on an embassy 
to Babylon, about four years before the fall of Jerusalem, and was commis- 
sioned by the prophet Jeremiah to take with him on his journey the roll in 
which he had written the doom of Babylon, and sink it in the midst of the 
Euphrates, as a token that Babylon would sink, never to rise again. Jer. li, 
60-64. B. C. 595. 

SE'RED, (Heb. same, Y)D, fear,) the first-born of Zebulun, (Gen. 

xlvi, 14,) and head of the family of the Sardites. Num. xxvi, 26. B. C. about 
1706. 

SER'GIUS PAUI/US, the Roman proconsul of Cyprus at the time 
when Paul with Barnabas visited that island on his first missionary tour. 
He is described as an intelligent (“prudent”) man, and hence entertained 
Elymas, desiring to learn the truth. On becoming acquainted with Barna- 
bas and Paul he was convinced of the truth and accepted the Gospel. Acts 
xiii, 7-12. A. D. 44. 


476 


SERUG — SHADRACH. 


SE'RUG, (Heb. Serug ', branch , or strength,) the son of Reu, father 

of Nahor, the grandfather of Abraham. Gen. xi, 20 ; 1 Chron. i, 26. When 
thirty years of age he begat Nahor, and lived 200 years afterward. B. C. 
2185-1955. In Luke iii, 35, the name is Grecized into Saruch, (q. v.) 
Bochart conjectures that the town of Seruj, a day’s journey from Charrae 
in Mesopotamia, was named from this patriarch. Suidas and others ascribe 
to him the deification of dead benefactors of mankind. Epiphanius states 
that, though in his time idolatry took its rise, yet it was confined to pict- 
ures. He characterizes the religion of mankind up to Serug’s days as 
Scythic. There is, of course, little or no historical value in any of these 
statements. 

SETH, (Heb. ShSth, ]■)£>, compensation.) The signification of his name is 

“ appointed ” or “ put ” in the place of the murdered Abel ; but Ewald 
thinks that another signification, which he prefers, is indicated in the text, 
namely, “ seedling,” or “ germ,”) the third son of Adam, and father of Enos 
when he was 105 years old. He died at the age of 912. Gen. iv, 25, 26 ; 
v, 3-8; 1 Chron. i, 1 ; Luke iii, 38. B. C. 3874-2962. 

SE'THUR, (Heb. Sethur', “i^D, hidden ,) son of Michael, the represent- 
ative of the tribe of Asher among the twelve spies sent by Moses to view 
the promised land. Num. xiii, 13. B. C. 1490. 

SHA'APH, (Heb. same, F|y^, division or union.) 

1. The last-named of the sons of Jahdai of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. 
ii, 47. B. C. probably about 1470. 

2. Third-named of the four sons of Caleb by Maachah, his concubine. 
He was the “ father ” (that is, founder) of Madmannah. 1 Chron. ii, 49. 
B. C. after 1471. 

SHAASH'GAZ, (Heb. Shaashgaz ', perhaps beauty's s&t'vant ,) the 

eunuch who had charge of the concubines in the court of Xerxes. Esther 
ii, 14. B. C. 518. 

SH ABBE THAT, SHAB'BETHAI, or SHABBETH'AI, (Heb. 

Shabbethai ', *»nsi65>, Sabbath-born,) & Levite who assisted in taking account of 

those who had married Gentile wives. Ezra x, 15. B. C. 457. He is probably 
the same with the one mentioned (Nell, viii, 7) as assisting in the instruction 
of the people in the law, and as one of the “ chief of the Levites who had 
the oversight of the outward business of the house of God.” Neh. xi, 16. 
SHACHFA, or SHACHTA, (Heb. Shokyah', accusation, or an - 

T ; t 1 

nouncement, according to the margin ; but the text has Shobyah', iTO&y 

captivity ,) the sixth-named of the seven sons of Shaharaim by his wife Ho- 
desh. 1 Chron. viii, 10. B. C. after 1450. 

SHAD'RACH, (Heb. Sliadrak ', meaning uncertain,) the Chaldee 

name given to Hananiah, the chief of the three Hebrew children. 1. Captive. 
He was one of the Jewish captives carried to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar. 
B. C. 606. Being of goodly person and of superior understanding, he was 
selected, with his three companions, for the king’s service, and was placed 


3HAGE — S FI ALLUM. 


477 


linder tuition in the language and learning of the Chaldeans as taught in 
the college of the magicians. Like Daniel he lived on pulse and water, and 
when the time of his probation was over he and his three companions, be- 
ing found superior to all the other magicians, were advanced to stand before 
the king. Dan. i, 7, sq. (2) Promotion. When Nebuchadnezzar determined 
upon the slaughter of the magicians because they could not tell him his for- 
gotten dream, Shadrach united with his companions in prayer to God to re- 
veal the dream to Daniel, (chap, ii, 17, 18;) and, Daniel being successful, 
Shadrach shared in the promotion, being appointed to a high civil office. 
Yer. 49. B. C. 603. (3) Fiery Furnace. At the instigation of certain en- 
vious Chaldeans an ordinance was published that all persons should worship 
the golden image to be set up in the plaiu of Dura. For refusing to comply, 
Shadrach, with Meshach and Abed-nego, were cast into the fiery furnace ; 
but their faith remained firm, and they escaped unhurt. The king acknowl- 
edged Jehovah to be God, and promoted his faithful servants. Dan. iii, 1-30. 
B. C. about 580. After their deliverance from the furnace we hear no more 
of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego in the Old Testament ; neither are 
they spoken of in the New Testament, except in the pointed allusion to* them 
in the Epistle to the Hebrews, as having “ through faith quenched the vio- 
lence of fire.” Heb. xi, 34. But there are repeated allusions to them in 
the later apocryphal books, and the martyrs of the Maccabean period seem to 
have been much encouraged by their example. See 1 Macc. ii, 59, 60 ; 
3 Macc. vi, 6 ; 4 Macc. xiii, 9 ; xvi, 3, 21 ; xviii, 12. 

SHA'GE, (Heb. Shage', erring ,) father of Jonathan the Hararite, 

one of David’s guard. 1 Chron. xi, 34. B. C. about 1047. See Shammah, 5. 

SHAHARA'IM, (Heb. Shachara'yim, double dawn , that is, 

morning and evening twilight,) a Benjamite who became the father of sev- 
eral children in the land of Moab. 1 Chron. viii, 8. Considerable confusion 
appears to have crept into the text, and various ways have been suggested of 
removing the difficulty. See M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia , s. v. ; Keil, 
Commentary , in loco. 

SHAI/LUM, (Heb. Shallum retribution .) 

1. The sixteenth king of Israel. His father’s name was Jabesh. Shal- 
lum conspired against Zechariah, son of Jeroboam II., killed him, and thus 
brought the dynasty of Jehu to a close, as was predicted. 2 Kings x, 30. 
B. C. 772. He reigned only a month, being in turn dethroned and slain by 
Meuahem. 2 Kings xv, 10-15. 

2. The son of Tikvah and husband of the prophetess Huldah. 2 Kings 
xxii, 14 ; 2 Chron. xxxiv, 22. B. C. 624. He was custodian of the priestly 
wardrobe, and was probably the same with Jeremiah’s uncle. Jer. xxxii, 7. 

3. Son of Sisamai and father of Jekamiah, and a descendant of Shesham 
of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 40, 41. 

4. The third son of Josiah, king of Judah, known in the books of Kings 
and Chronicles as Jehoahaz. 1 Chron. iii, 15; Jer. xxii, 11. See Jehoahaz. 

5. Son of Shaul, the son of Simeon. 1 Chron. iv, 25. B. C. after 1706. 

6. A high-priest, son of Zadok and father of Hilkiah, (1 Chron. vi, 12, 13,) 
and an ancestor of Ezra. Ezra vii, 2. B. C. after 950. He is the Meshul- 
lam of 1 Chron. ix, 11 ; Neh. xi, 11. 


478 


SHALLUN— SHALMANESER. 


7. The youngest son of Naphtali, (1 Chron. vii, 13,) called Shillem. Gen. 
xlvi, 24. B. C. about 1706. 

8. A descendant of Kore, and chief of the porters of the sanctuary in the 
time of David. 1 Chron. ix, 17, 19, 31. B. C. about 1050. He seems to 
have been the same Sliallum whose descendants returned from the exile. 
Ezra ii, 42; x, 24; Neb. vii, 45. With this Shallum we may identify 
Meshelemiah and Shelemiah, (1 Chron. xxvi, 1, 2, 9, 14,) and is perhaps the 
“ father ” of Maaseiah, mentioned in Jer. xxxv, 4. 

9. The father of Jehizkiah, which latter was one of the chieftains of 
Ephraim who took part in returning the prisoners carried away from Judah. 
2 Chron. xxviii, 12. B. C. before 741. 

10. A Jew of the descendants of Bani who put away his idolatrous wife. 
Ezra x, 42. B. C. 456. 

11. A Levitical porter who did the same. Ezra x, 24. B. C. 456. 

12. The son of Halohesh, the “ ruler of the half part of Jerusalem,” 
who, with his daughters, assisted in building its walls. Neh. iii, 12. 
B. C. 445. 

SHAL'LUN, (Heb. Shallun another form of Shallum, retribution ,) 

“ the son of Col-hozeh, the ruler of part of Mizpah ; he built it, and covered 
it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and 
the wall of the pool of Siloah by the king’s garden, and unto the stairs that 
go down from the city of David.” Neh. iii, 15. B. C. 445. 

SHAI/MAI, (Heb. margin in Ezra Shalmay', my thanks , text 

Shamlay' ; in Neh. Salmay my garments.) The children of Shalmai 

(or Shamlai, as in the margin of Ezra ii, 46) were among the Nethinim 
who returned with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 46; Neh. vii, 48. B. C. about 
536. 

SHAI/MAN, (Heb. Shalman ', perhaps Persian, fire-worshiper ,) an 

abbreviated form of Shalmaneser, king of Assyria. Hos. x, 14. 

SHALMANE'SER, (Heb. same, perhaps fire- worshiper,) the 

Assyrian king who reigned immediately before Sargon, and probably imme- 
diately after Tiglath-pileser. He was the fourth Assyrian monarch of the 
same name. He can scarcely have ascended the throne earlier than B. C. 
730, and may possibly not have done so till a few years later. It must have 
been soon after his accession that he led the forces of Assyria into Pales- 
tine, where Hoshea, the last king of Israel, had revolted against his author- 
ity. 2 Kings xvii, 3. No Sooner was he come than Hoshea submitted, ac- 
knowledged him.self a “servant” of the Great King, and consented to pay 
him a fixed tribute annually. He soon after concluded an alliance with the 
king of Egypt, and withheld his tribute in consequence. In B. C. 723 Shal- 
manezer invaded Palestine for the second time, and, as Hoshea refused to 
submit, laid siege to Samaria. The siege lasted to the third year, (B. C. 
721,) when the Assyrian arms prevailed. 2 Kings xvii, 4-6 ; xviii, 9-11. It 
is uncertain whether Shalmaneser conducted the siege to its close, or 
whether he did not lose his crown to Sargon before the city was taken. 
(Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 


SHAMA — SHAMMAH. 


479 


SHA'MA, (Heb. Shama ', hearing , obedient ,) the eldest son of Ho- 

than, and, with his brother Jehiel, a member of David’s guard. 1 Chron. 
xi, 44. B. C. 1047. 

SHAMARI'AH, (2 Chron. xi, 19.) See Shemariah, 2. 

SHA'MED, properly Shemer , (Heb. She'mer, keeper ,) the third- 

named son of Elpaal, and builder of Ono and Lod. He was a Benjamite. 
1 Chron. viii, 12. B. C. after 1451. 

SHA'MER, (Heb. She'mer , keeper.) 

1. The son of Mahli and father of Bani of the tribe of Levi. 1 Chron. 
vi, 46. B. C. perhaps about 1490. 

2. The second son of Heber, an Asherite, (1 Chron. vii, 32, where he is 
called Shomer,) and father of Ahi and others. Yer. 34. B. C. perhaps be- 
fore 1490. 

SHAM'GAR, (Heb. Shamgar ', perhaps sword,) the third judge 

of Israel. Nothing is recorded about the descent of Shamgar, save that he 
was the son of Anath. He may have been of the tribe of Naphtali, since 
Beth-anath is in that tribe. Judg. i, 33. In the days of Shamgar Israel 
was in a most depressed condition, and the whole nation was cowed. At 
this conjuncture Shamgar was raised up to be a deliverer. With no arms 
in his hand but an ox-goad, (Judg. iii, 31; compare 1 Sam. xiii, 21,) he 
made a desperate assault upon the Philistines, and slew 600 of them. Judg. 
iii, 31. B. C. probably a little before 1316. He does not seem to have se- 
cured for the Israelites any permanent victory over the Philistines, nor is 
an account given of the length of his services. Moreover, he is not called 
a judge, but is probably so reckoned because he answered the description 
as given in chap, ii, 16. 

SHAMHUTH, (Heb. Shamhuth ', probably desolation ,) the fifth 

captain for the fifth month in David’s arrangement of his army. 1 Chron. 
xxvii, 8. B. C. about 1015. From a comparison of the lists in 1 Chron. 
xi, xxvii, it would seem that Shamhuth is the same as Shammoih the 
Harorite. 

SHAM'MA, (Heb. Shamma', KftK*, astonishment, or desolation ,) the 

eighth-named of the eleven sons of Zophah, an Asherite. 1 Chron. vii, 37. 
B. C. after 1490. 

SHAM'MAH, (Heb. Shammah', astonishment , or desolation.) 

1. The third-named of the sons of Reuel, the son of Esau, (Gen. xxxvi, 
13 ; 1 Chron. i, 37,) and head of one of the families. Gen. xxxvi, 17. B. C. 
about 1715. 

2. The third son of Jesse, David’s father, and one of the brothers not 
chosen by Jehovah to be anointed king. 1 Sam. xvi, 9. B. C. about 1063. 
With his two elder brothers he joined the Hebrew army. Chap, xvii, 13. 
He is elsewhere, by a slight change in the name, called Shimea, (1 Chron. 
xx, 7 ;) Shimeah , (2 Sam. xiii, 3, 32 ;) Shimma. 1 Chron. ii, 13. 

3. The son of Agee the Hararite, and one of the three captains of David’s 
champions. B. C. 1048. The exploit by which he obtained this high dis- 


480 SHAMMAI— SHAMMUA. 

tinction was the invaluable assistance he rendered to David against the 
Philistines. By a comparison of the two accounts (2 Sam. xxiii, 11, 12; 
1 Chrou. xi, 13, 14) it seems that David had joined battle with the Philis- 
tines at Pas-dammim. Shammah took his stand in the middle of a cultivated 
field, where the Philistines were in great numbers, and wrested it from the 
foe. According to Kitto, ( Cyclopaedia, s. v.,) Shammah also shared in the 
dangers of forcing a way through the Philistine host to gratify David’s thirst 
for the waters of Bethlehem, (2 Sam. xxiii, 13-17 ;) but Keil and Delitzsch 
( Commentary , in loco ) think that this deed was performed by three of the 
thirty heroes whose names are not given. 

Difficulties.— Lentil, and barley field. The scene of Shammah’s exploit is 
said in Samuel to be a field of lentils, (D*'Kny,) and in 1 Chron. a field of barley, 

(Dniyb\) It is more likely that it was a field of barley, and that by a very slight 

change and transposition of letters one word was substituted for the other. The 
reason that Shammah is not mentioned in 1 Chron. is that “ Three lines have 
dropped out from the text in consequence of the eye of the copyist having wan- 
dered from ver. 9, to }E5DK*1, ver. 11.”— Keil and De- 

litzsch, Commentary , in loco. 

4. “ Shammah the Harodite ” was another of David’s mighty men. 2 Sam. 
xxiii, 25. He is called “ Shammoth the Harorite ” in 1 Chron. xi, 27, and 
“ Shamhuth the Izrahite ” in chap, xxvii, 8. In the latter passage he is 
mentioned as the leader of the fifth division of David’s army. B. C. about 
1015. 

5. In the list of mighty men in 2 Sam. xxiii, 32, 33, we find “Jonathan, 
Shammah the Hararite ; ” while in the corresponding verse of 1 Chron. 
xi, 34, it is “Jonathan, the son of Shage the Hararite.” Combining the two, 
Kennicott proposes to read “ Jonathan, the son of Shamlia, the Hararite.” 
(Smith, Dictionary.) 

SHAM'MAI, or SHAM'MAI, (Heb. Shammay', desolate.) 

1. The elder son of Onam, of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 28. B. C. 
about 1450. 

2. The son of Rekem and father of Maon, of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. 
ii, 44, 45. B. C. after 1471. 

3. Named, apparently, as the sixth child of Ezra, of the tribe of Judah. 
1 Chron. iv, 17. B. C. after 1471. Bertheau suggests, however, that the 
last clause of ver. 18 be inserted in ver. 17 after the name Jalon. If this 
suggestion is accepted, then Shammai would be the son of Mered by his 
Egyptian wife, Bilhiah. 

SHAM'MOTH, (Heb. Shammoth ', desolations ,) “ the Harorite,” 

one of David’s guard, (2 Chron. xi, 27 ;) apparently the same with “ Sham- 
mah the Harodite ” (2 Sam. xxiii, 25) and “ Shamhuth.” 1 Chron. xxvii, 8. 

SHAMMUA, (Heb. same, renowned.) 

1. The son of Zaccur, and the man who represented the tribe of Reuben 
amoug the twelve spies. Num. xiii, 4. B. C. 1490. 

2. One of the sons of David (by his wife Bathsheba, 1 Chron. iii, 5) born 


481 


SHAMMUAH— SHAPHAT. 

in Jerusalem. 1 Chron. xiv, 4. B. C. about 1045. In the Authorized Ver- 
sion of 2 Sam. v, 14, the same Hebrew name is Anglicized, “ Shammuah,” 
and in 2 Chron. iii, 5, he is called Shimea. 

3. A Levite, the father of Abda. Neh. xi, IT. B. C. before 445. The 
same as Shemaiah , the father of Obadiah. 1 Chron. ix, 16. 

4. The representative of the priestly family of Bilgah, or Bilgai, in the 
days of Joiakim. Neh. xii, 18. B. C. about 500. 

SHAMMUAH, son of David, (2 Sam. v, 14 ;) elsewhere calied Sham- 
mua and Shimea. 

SHAM'SHERAI, or SHAMSHERA1, (Heb. Shamsheray ', 

probably sunny,) the first-named of the six sons of Jeroham, resident at 
Jerusalem. 1 Chron. viii, 26. B. C. about 1400. 

SHATHAM, (Heb. Shapham hold, or vigorous ,) the chief second 

in authority among the Gadites in the days of Jotham. 1 Chron. v, 12. 
B. C. about 750. 

SHA'PHAN, (Heb. Shaplian', {£{£>, coney,) the scribe or secretary of 
King Josiah. 

1. Family. He was the son of Azaliah. (2 Kings xxii, 3 ; 2 Chron. 
xxxiv, 8,) father of Ahikam, (2 Kings xxii, 12; 2 Chron. xxxiv, 20,) Elasali, 
(Jer. xxix, 3,) and Gemariah, (Jer. xxxvi, 10-12,) and grandfather of Geda- 
liah, (Jer. xxxix, 14; xl, 5, 9, 11; xli, 2; xliii, 6,) Micliaiah, (Jer. xxxvi, 11,) 
and probably of Jaazaniali. Ezek. viii, 11. There seems to be no sufficient 
reason for supposing that Shaplian the father of Ahikam, and Shaphan the 
scribe, were different persons. 

2. Personal History. The history of Shaphan brings out some points 
with regard to the office of scribe which he held. He appears on an equality 
with the governor of the city and the royal recorder, with whom he was 
sent by the king to Hilkiah to take an account of the money which had 
been collected by the Levites for the repair of the temple and to pay the 
workmen. 2 Kings xxii, 4; 2 Chron. xxxiv, 9; compare 2 Kings xii, 10. 
B. C. about 624. Ewald calls him Minister of Finance. ( Gesch ;, iii, 697.) It 
was on this occasion that Hilkiah communicated his discovery of a copy of 
the law, which he had probably found while making preparations for the 
repair of the temple. Shaphan was intrusted to deliver it to the king, 
who was so deeply moved upon hearing it read that he sent Shaplian, with 
the high-priest and others, to consult Huldah the prophetess. Shaphan 
was then apparently an old man, for his son Ahikam must have been in a 
position of importance, and his grandson Gedaliah was already born. Be 
this as it may, Shaphan disappears from the scene, and probably died be- 
fore the fifth year of Jehoiakim, eighteen years later, when we find Elish- 
ama was scribe. Jer. xxxvi, 12. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

SHA'PHAT, (Heb. Shaphaf, judge.) 

1. The son of Hori, and the spy chosen from the tribe of Simeon to as- 
sist in exploring the promised land. Num. xiii, 5. B. C. 1490. 

2. The father of the prophet Elisha. 1 Kings xix, 16, 19 ; 2 Kings iii, 11 ; 
vi, 31. B. C. before 900. 

3. One of the six sons of Shemaiah in the royal line of Judah, after the 
captivity. 1 Chron. iii, 22. B. C. perhaps about 350. 


482 


Sharai — shear-jAshuS. 


4. One of the chiefs of the Gadites in Bashan in the time of Jotham. 

1 Chron. v, 12. B. C. about 750. 

5. The son of Adlai, who was over David’s oxen in the valleys. 1 Chron. 
xxvii, 29. B. C. about 1015. 

SHA'RAI, SHAR'AI, or SHARA'I, (Heb. Sharay ', ry$ t perhaps re- 
leased by Jehovah ,) one of the “ sons ” of Bani who put away his Gentile wife. 
Ezra x, 40. B. C. 456. 

SHA'RAR, (Heb. Sharar “n$, strong ,) the father of Ahiam the Hara- 

rite. 2 Sam. xxiii, 33. B. C. before 1047. In 1 Chron. xi, 35, he is called 
Sacar, which Kennicott thinks the true reading. 

SHARE'ZER, (Heb. Share'tser , "prince of fire.) 

1. A son of Sennacherib, who, with his brother Adrammelech, murdered 
their father while he was worshiping in the temple of the god Nisroch. 

2 Kings xix, 37 ; Isa. xxxvii, 38. B. C. 709. 

2. In Zech. vii, 2, Anglicized Sherezer, (q. v.) 

SHA'SHAI, SHASH'AI, or SHASHA'I, (Heb. W, Shashay', whit- 
ish , or noble,) one of the “ sons ” of Bani who put away his Gentile wife 
after the exile. Ezra x, 40. B. C. 456. 

SHA'SHAK, (Heb. ShashaJc ', longing ,) son of Beriah, a Benjamite. 

1 Chron. viii, 14. He was the father of Ishpan and others. Yers. 22-25. 
B. C. after 1450. 

SHA'UL, (Heb. ShaiiV , asked.) 

1. The son of Simeon by a Canaanitish woman. Gen. xlvi, 10 ; Exod. 
vi, 15 ; Num. xxvi, 13; 1 Chron. iv, 24. B. C. 1706. 

2. 1 Chron. i, 48, 49. In Gen. xxxvi, 37, he is less accurately called 
Saul, (q. v.) 

3. Son of Uzziah, a Kohathite. 1 Chron. vi, 24. 

SHAV'SHA, (Heb. Shavsha', nobility ,) the secretary of King 

David, (1 Chron. xviii, 16 ,) and apparently the same with Serai ah, (q. v.) 

SHE'AL, (Heb. ShedV, asking,) one of the sons of Bani who put 

away his foreign wife. Ezra x, 29. B. C. 456. 

SHEAL/TTEL, (Heb. ShealtieV, asked of God,) father of Ze- 

rubbabel. Ezra lii, 2, 8; v, 2 ; Neh. xii, 1 ; Hag. i, 1, 12, 14; ii, 2, 23. See 
Salathiel. 

SHEARrAH, (Heb. Shear yah', rTHSJKj, whom Jehovah prizes,) the fourth 

of Azel’s six sons, and one of the descendants of Saul. 1 Chron. viii, 38 ; 
ix, 44. B. C. long after 1000. 

SHEAR-JA / SHUB, (Heb. Shear ' Yashub', a remnant shall 

return ,) the son of Isaiah who accompanied his father when he went to de- 
liver to King Ahaz the prophecy contained in Isa. vii, (see ver. 3.) B. C. 
about 742. The name, like that of Maher-shalal-hash-baz, probably had a 
mystical significance. 


&HEBA — SHEBNA. 483 

SHE'BA, (Heb. Sheba', Nos. 1, 2, 3 ; She'ba , an oath , or 

seven, Nos. 4 and 5. T : 

1. A son of Raamah, son of Cush. Gen. x, 7 ; 1 Chron. i, 9. B. C. after 
2347. He is supposed to have settled somewhere on the shores of the Per- 
sian Gulf. 

2. A son of Joktan, son of the patriarch Eber. Gen. x, 28 ; 1 Chron. i, 22. 
B. C. some time after 2247. The Joktanites were among the early colonists 
of southern Arabia, and the kingdom which they there founded was, for 
many centuries, called the kingdom of Sheba, after one of the sons of 
Joktan. 

3. The elder son of Jokshan, son of Keturah. Gen. xxv, 3 ; 1 Chron. i, 32. 

B. C. after 1853. “ He evidently settled somewhere in Arabia, probably on 

the eastern shore of the Arabian Gulf, where his posterity appear to have 
become incorporated with the earlier Sabaeans of the Joktanic branch.” 
— M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopedia , s. v. 

4. “ The son of Bichri, a Benjarnite from the mountains of Ephraim, 
(2 Sam. xx, 1-22,) the last chief of the Absalom insurrection. He is de- 
cribed as a ‘ man of Belial.’ But he must have been a person of some con- 
sequence from the immense effect produced by his appearance. It was, in 
fact, all but an anticipation of the revolt of Jeroboam. The occasion seized 
by Sheba was the emulation between the northern and southern tribes on 
David’s return. 2 Sam. xx, 1, 2. The king might well say, ‘ Sheba the 
son of Bichri shall do us more harm than did Absalom.’ Ver. 6. Sheba 
traversed the whole of Palestine, apparently rousing the population, Joab 
following in full pursuit. It seems to have been his intention to establish 
himself in the fortress of Abel-Beth-maachah, famous for the prudence of 
its inhabitants. 2 Sam. xx, 18. That prudence was put to the test on the 
present occasion. Joab’s terms were — the head of the insurgent chief. A 
woman of the place undertook the mission to her city, and proposed the 
execution to her fellow-citizens. The head of Sheba was thrown over the 
wall, and the insurrection ended.” B. C. about 1022. — Smith, Dictionary , s. v. 

5. One of the Gadite chieftains resident in Bashan in the reign of Jero- 
boam II. 1 Chron. v, 13. B. C. about 784. 

SHE BAND AH, (Heb. Shebanyah iTOSfcjJ, brought up by Jehovah.) 

1. One of the priests who blew the trumpet before the ark of the Lord 
when it was removed from the house of Obed-edom to Jerusalem. 1 Chron. 
xv, 24. B. C. about 1042. 

2. One of the Levites who stood upon the “ stairs ” and offered the prayer 
of confession and thanksgiving, (Neh. ix, 4, 5,) and joined in the sacred 
covenant with Nehemiah. Chap, x, 10.- B. C. 445. 

3. Another Levite who signed-the covenant. Neh. x, 12. 

4. A priest who also sealed the covenant. Neh. x, 4. His son is ' promi- 
nently mentioned in chap, xii, 14, and he is probably the same with Shecha- 
niah. Ver. 3. 

SHE'BER, (Heb. same, breaking ,) a son of Caleb by his concubine 

Maachah. 1 Chron. ii, 48. B. C. about 1471. 

SHEB / NA, (Heb. Shebna', and Shebnah', vigor,) a person 

occupying a high position in Hezekiah’s court, officially described as “ over 


484 


SHEBUEL-— SHECHEM. 


the house.” The office he held was that of minister of the household, and 
included the superintendence of all the domestic affairs of the sovereign. Isa. 
xxii, 15. B. C. about 712. He subsequently held the subordinate position 
of secretary, (chap, xxxvi, 3 ; xxxvii, 2 ; 2 Kings xix, 2,) his former post 
having been given to Eliakim. In his post of eminence Shebna had helped 
to support a spirit of self-security aud forgetfulness of God ; and Isaiah was 
sent to pronounce against him the prophecy of his fall. Chap, xxii, 15, sq. 

SHEBU'EL, or SHEB'UEL, (Heb. Shebuel', ^3^, captive of God.) 

1. A descendant of Gershom, (1 Chron. xxiii, 16; xxvi, 24,) who was 
ruler of the treasures of the house of God; called also Shubael. 1 Chron. 
xxiv, 20. B. C. 1015. He is the last descendant of Moses of whom there 
is any trace. 

2. One of the fourteen sons of Heman the minstrel, (1 Chron. xxv, 4,) 
called also Shubael. 1 Chron. xxv, 20. B. C. about 1015. 

SHECANFAH, (1 Chron. xxiv, 11 ; 2 Chron. xxxi, 15,) another form for 
Shechaniah. See Nos. 2 and 3. 

SHECHANFAH, (Heb. Shekanyah ', n*03£^, intimate with Jehovah.) 

T : ” : 

1. Apparently the son of Obadiah, and presumably a descendant of David. 

1 Chron. iii, 21, 22. Keil ( Commentary , in loco) thinks that the list from 
ver. 21 to the end of the chapter is a genealogical fragment inserted into 
the text at some later time. 

2. The tenth in order of the priests who were appointed by lot in the 
reign of David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 11, “ Shecaniah.” B. C. 1015. 

3. One of the priests appointed by Hezekiah to distribute tithes among 
their brethren. 2 Chron. xxxi, 15. B. C. 726. The name is given in the 
Authorized Version “Shecaniah.” 

4. One of the “ sons ” of Pharosh, and ancestor of the Zechariah who, 
with 150 males, accompanied Ezra from the exile. Ezra viii, 3. B. C. before 
457. 

5. Another Israelite, and progenitor ofJahaziel, who with 300 males 
went up with Ezra from Babylon to Jerusalem. Ezra viii, 5. B. C. before 
457. 

6. The son of Jehiel, of the “ sons of Elam,” and one of the -Jews who 
proposed to Ezra the repudiation of the Gentile wives. Ezra x, 2. B. C. 
457. 

7. The father of Shemaiah, who was “ keeper of the east gate,” and as- 
sisted in repairing the wall of Jerusalem under Nehemiah. Neh. iii, 29. 
B. C. before 445. 

8. The son of Arah aud father-in-law of Tobiah, the Ammonite who op- 
posed Nehemiah. Neh. vi, 18. B. C. 445. 

9. One of the “ priests and Levites ” (probably the former) who returned 
with Zerubbabel from Babylon. Neh. xii, 3. B. C. about 536. 

SHE'CHEM, Heb. Shekem ', D3!^, a shoulder.) 

1. The son of Hamor, the Hivite prince at Shechem. Gen. xxxiii, 19. 
Charmed with the beauty of Dinah, Jacob’s daughter, Shechem took her 
with him and seduced her. This wrong was terribly avenged by the girl’s 
brothers, Simeon and Levi. Gen. xxxiv, 1-31 ; Josh, xxiv, 32 ; Judg. ix, 28 ; 
Acts vii, 16 ; in the last passage been called Sychem. B. C. about 1732. 


SHEDEUR — SHELOMI. 


485 


2. A man of Manasseh, of the family of Gilead, and head of the family 
of Shechemites. Num. xxvi, 31. B. C. about 1452. His family is mentioned 
in Josh, xvii, 2. 

3. A son of Shemidah, a Gileadite. 1 Chron. vii, 19. 

SHED'EUR, (Heb. Shedeiir', darting , or darter, of light,) the 

father of Elizur, chief of the tribe of Reuben at the time of the exodus. Num. 
i, 5 ; ii, 10 ; vii, 30, 35 ; x. 18. B. C. before 1490. 

SHEHARI'AH, (Heb. Shecharyah ', sought by Jehovah , or dawn- 

ing of Jehovah ,) the second of the six sons of Jeroham, Benjamites residing 
in Jerusalem at the captivity. 1 Chron. viii, 26. B. C. 588. 

SHE'LAH, (Heb. Shelah', petition, or peace.) 

1. The youngest son of Judah by the daughter of Shuah. Gen. xxxviii, 
5, 11, 14, 26; xlvi, 12; Num. xxvi, 20; 1 Chron. ii, 3; iv, 21. B. C. after 
1727. His descendants (1 Chron. iv, 21-23) were called Shelanites. 

2. The son of Arphaxad. 1 Chron. i, 18. See Salah. 

SHE LE MI 'AH, (Heb. Shelemyah', rPlp!?$, repaid of Jehovah. 

1. The porter of the east entrance to the tabernacle, his son Zechariah 
having the northern gate. 1 Chron. xxvi, 14. B. C. about 1015. He is 
called Meshelemiah in 1 Chron. ix, 2 1 ; xxvi, 1, 2 ; Meshullam in Neh. xii, 25 ; 
and Shallum in 1 Chron. ix, 17, 31. 

2. One of the sons of Bani in the time of Ezra. Ezra x, 39. B. C. 456. 

3. Another of the sons of Bani in the time of Ezra. Ezra x, 41. B. C. 
456. 

4. The father of Hananiah, which latter repaired part of the walls of 
Jerusalem. Neh. iii, 30. B. C. 445. He is probably the apothecary, or 
manufacturer of incense, mentioned in ver. 8. 

5. A priest appointed by Nehemiah to serve as a treasurer of the Levit- 
ical tithes. Neh. xiii, 13. B. C. 445. 

6. The grandfather of Jehudi, who was sent by the princes to invite 
Baruch to read Jeremiah’s roll to them. Jer. xxxvi, 14. B. C. about 606. 

7. Son of Abdeel, one of those who received the orders of Jehoiakim to 
take Baruch and Jeremiah. Jer. xxxvi, 26. 

8. The father of Jehucal, or Jucal, in the time of Zedekiah. Jer. xxxvii, 3. 
B. C. about 599. 

9. The father of Irijah, the captain of the ward who arrested Jeremiah. 
Jer. xxxvii, 13. B. C. before 589. 

SHE'LEPH, (Heb. same, P)^, a drawing forth,) the second of the thir- 
teen sons of Joktan. Gen. x, 26 ; 1 Chron. i, 20. B. C. about 2247. The 
tribe which sprang from him has been satisfactorily identified, and is found 
in the district of Sulaf. 

SHETjESH, (Heb. same, triad, or might,) a son of Helem and 

great-grandson of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 35. B. C. perhaps about 1444. 

SHEI/OMI, or SHELO'MI, (Heb. Shelomi', pacific.) the father 

of Ahiliud, which latter represented the tribe of Asher among the commis- 
sioners appointed to divide the promised land. Num. xxxiv, 27. B. C. 1452. 


486 


SHELOMITH— SHEMA. 


SHEL'OMITH, or SHELO'MITH, (Heb. Shelomith or 
nnpito, ‘peaceful.) 

1 . The daughter of Dibri, of the tribe of Dan, and mother of the man who 
was stoned for blasphemy. Lev. xxiv, 11. B. 0. 1490. 

2. The daughter of Zerubbabel. 1 Chron. iii, 19. B. C. perhaps after 536. 

3. First-named of the three sons of Shimei, chief of the Gershonites in 
the time of David. 1 Chron. xxiii, 9. B. C. about 1015. In ver. 10 his 
name should probably take that of “ Shimei.” 

4. A Levite, chief of the Izharites in the time of David. 1 Chron. 
xxiii, 18. B. C. about 1015. In chap, xxiv, 22, he is called Shelomoth. 

5. A Levite, and descendant of Eliezer, the son of Moses, who in the 
reign of David was one of the temple treasurers. 1 Chron. xxvi, 25, 26, 28. 
B. C. about 1015. 

6. The last child of Rehoboam by his wife Maachah. 2 Chron. xi, 20. 
B. C. about 970. 

7. According to the present text the sons of Shelomith, with the son of 
Josiphiah at their head, returned from Babylon with Ezra. Ezra viii, 10. 
There appears, however, to be an omission, and the true reading is probably 
“ Of the sons of Bani, Shelomith the son of Josiphiah.” 

SHEL'OMOTH, or SHELO'MOTH, (1 Chron. xxiv, 22.) See Shelo- 
mith, No. 4. 

SHELU'MIEL, (Heb. ShelumieV, friend of God,) the son of 

Zurishaddai, and prince of the tribe of Simeon at the time of the exodus. 
Num. i, 6 ; ii, 12 ; vii, 36, 41 ; x, 19. B. C. 1490. 

SHEM, (Heb. same, name,) one of the three sons of Noah, born 

when his father was 500 years of age. Gen. v, 32. B. C. 2448. At the 
age of 98 years he entered the ark, being married but childless, (vii, 7,) and 
two years after the flood (that is, the beginning of the flood) he became 
the father of Arphaxad, other children being born still later. Chap, xi, 
10, 11 ; x, 22. He assisted Japheth in covering the nakedness of his father 
when it was made known by Ham. In the prophecy of Noah which is 
connected with this incident (chap, ix, 23-37) the first blessing falls on 
Shem. His death at the age of 600 years is recorded in chap, xi, 11. 
B. C. 1846. “ The portion of the earth occupied by the descendants of Shem 

(Gen. x, 21-31) intersects the portions of Japheth and Ham, and stretches 
in an uninterrupted line from the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian Ocean. It 
includes Syria, (Aram,) Chaldea, (Arphaxad,) parts of Assyria, (Asshur,) of Per- 
sia, (Elam,) and of the Arabian peninsula, (Joktan.) The servitude of Canaan 
under Shem, predicted by Noah, (Gen. ix, 26,) was fulfilled primarily in the 
subjugation of the people of Palestine. Josh, xxiii, 4 ; 2 Chron. viii, 7, 8.” 

Difficulty.— The expression “Unto Shem ... the brother of Japheth the 
elder,” etc., has caused much discussion as to the relative ages of Japheth and 
Shem. Many prominent authorities support the seniority of Shem, while a 
large number argue in favor of Japheth. For an extended discussion of the ques- 
tion see M’Clintock and Strong’s Cyclopcedia , s. v. 

SHE'MA, (Heb. She'ma, yojy ; She'ma, VOW, 1 Chron. ii, 43, rumor.) 

1. The last-named son of Hebron and father of Raliam, of the tribe of 
Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 43, 44. B. C. about 1471. 


SHEMAAH — SHEMAIAH. 487 

2. The son of Joel and father of Azaz, of the tribe of Reuben. 1 Chron. 
y, 8. He is probably the same with Shemaiah of ver. 4. 

3. One of the sons of the Benjamite Elpaal, and one of those who drove 
out the inhabitants of Gath. 1 Chron. viii, 13. B. C. after 1450. 

4. One of those who stood at Ezra’s right hand when he read the law to 
the people. Neh. viii, 4. B. 0. about 445. 

SHEM'AAH, (Heb. with the art. hash-Shem'aah , the rumor,) a 

Benjamite of Gibeah, and father of Ahiezer and Joash, who joined David 
at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 3. B. C. about 1058. 

SHEMAIAH, (Heb. Shemayah', n$D$, or Shemaya'hu, heard 

of Jehovah.) * T ! " : T : * 

1. A prophet in the reign of Rehoboam. When the king had assembled 
180,000 men of Benjamin and Judah to reconquer the northern kingdom 
after its revolt, Shemaiah was commissioned to charge them to return to 
their homes, and not to war against their brethren. 1 Kings xii, 22 ; 2 Chron. 
xi, 2. B. C. 975. His second and last appearance upon the stage was upon 
the occasion of the invasion of Judah and siege of Jerusalem by Shishak, 
king of Egypt. 2 Chron. xii, 5, 7. He wrote a chronicle containing the 
events of Rehoboam’s reign. 2 Chron. xii, 15. 

2. The son of Shechaniah. among the descendants of Zerubbabel. 1 Chron. 
iii, 22. He was keeper of the east gate of the city, and assisted Nehemiah 
in restoring the wall. Neh. iii, 29. B. C. 445. He is probably the same with 
Semei. Luke iii, 26. 

3. Ancestor of Ziza, a prince of the tribe of Simeon. 1 Chron. iv, 37. 
B. C. before 726. Perhaps the same as Shimei. Yers. 26, 27. 

4. The son of Joel, a Reubenite and father of Gog. 1 Chron. v, 4. He is 
probably the same as Shema. Ye r. 8. 

5. Son of Hasshub, a Merarite Levite who lived in Jerusalem after the 
captivity. 1 Chron. ix, 14. He was one of those who had “the oversight 
of the outward business of the house of God.” Neh. xi, 16. B. CL 445. 

6. The son of Galal and father of the Levite Obadiah (or Abda) who 
“ dwelt in the villages of the Netophathites” after the captivity. 1 Chron. 
ix, 16. B. C. before 445. In Neh. xi, 17, he is called Shammua. 

7. Son of Elizaphan, and chief of his house (of 200 men) in the reign of 
David. He took part in the removal of the ark from Obed-edom. 1 Chron. 
xv, 8, 11. B. C. about 1042. 

8. A son of Nethaneel, and a Levite scribe who, in the time of David, 
registered the division of the priests into twenty-four orders. 1 Chron. 
xxiv, 6. B. C. 1015. 

9. The eldest son of Obed-edom the Gittite, and a gate-keeper of the 
temple. 1 Chron. xxvi, 4, 6, 7. B. C. about 1015. 

10. One of the Levites sent by Jehoshaphat to teach the people of the 
cities of Judah. 2 Chron. xvii, 8. B. C. 912. 

11. A descendant of Jeduthun the singer, who assisted in the purification 
of the temple in the reign of Hezekiah. 2 Chron. xxix, 14. B. C. 726. He 
is perhaps the same as the Shemaiah who distributed tithes among his 
brethren. Chap, xxxi, 15. 

12. A Levite in the reign of Josiah, who, with others, made large contri- 
butions of sacrifices for the passover. 2 Chron. xxxv, 9. B. C. 623. 


488 


SHEMARIAH— SHEMIDA. 


13. One of the sons of Adonikam, who, with his two brothers, brought 
sixty males from Babylon with Ezra. Ezra viii, 13. B. 0. about 457. 

14. One of the “ heads ” whom Ezra sent for to his camp by the river of 
Ahava, for the purpose of obtaining Levites and ministers for the temple 
from “ the place Casiphia.” Ezra viii, 16. B. C. about 457. 

15. A priest of the family of Harim, who put away his foreign wife at 
Ezra’s bidding. Ezra x, 21. B. C. 456. 

16. A layman of Israel, son of another Harim, who also had married a 
foreigner. Ezra x, 31. B. C. 456. 

17. Son of Delaiah, the son of Mehetabeel, a prophet in the time of Nehe- 
miah who, bribed by Tobiah and Sanballat, pretended fear, and proposed to 
Nehemiah that they should seek satety in the temple. Neh. vi, 10, sq. B. C. 
445. 

18. The head of a priestly house, who returned with Zerubbabel from 
Babylon. Neh. xii, 6, 18. B. C. 536. If the same, he lived to sign the 
covenant with Nehemiah. Chap, x, 8. B. C. 445. The Sliemaiah, son of 
Mattaniah and father of Jonathan, mentioned in chap, xii, 35, is perhaps the 
same. 

19. One of the princes of Judah at the time of the dedication of the wall 
of Jerusalem. Neh. xii, 34. B. C. 445. 

20. One of the musicians who took part in the dedication of the new wall 
of Jerusalem. Neh. xii, 36. B. C. 445. 

21. One of the priestly trumpeters on the same occasion. Neh. xii, 42. 

22. The father of the prophet Urijah of Kirjath-jearim. Jer. xxvi, 20. 
B. C. before 609. 

23. Shemaiah the Nehelamite, a false prophet in the time of Jeremiah. 
Jer. xxix, 24-32. 

24. The father of Delaiah, one of the princes who heard Baruch’s roll. 
Jer. xxxvi, 12. B. C. before 607. 

SHE MARI' AH, (Heb. Shemaryah' , kept of Jehovah) 

1. One of the Benjamite warriors who came to David at Ziklag. 1 Chron. 
xii, 5. B. C. about 1058. 

2. The second son of Rehoboam by his wife Abihail. 2 Chron. xi, 19 ; 
Authorized Version, “ Shamariah.” B. C. about 973. 

3. One of the family of Harim, a layman of Israel, who put away his for- 
eign wife in the time of Ezra. Ezra x, 32. B. C. 456. 

4. Another of the family of Bani under the same circumstances. Ezra 
x, 41. 

SHEME'BER, or SHEM'EBER, (Heb. same, lofty flight , 

or splendor of heroism) king of Zeboim, and ally of the king of Sodom when he 
was attacked by the north-eastern invaders under Chedorlaomer. Gen. xiv, 2. 
B. C. about 1913. 

SHE'MER, (Heb. same, kept, as lees of wine,) the owner of the 

hill on which the city of Samaria was built. 1 Kings xvi, 24. King Omri 
bought it for two talents of silver, and named it Shomeron, after Shemer. 
1 Kings xvi, 24. B. C. between 925 and 918. 

SHEMI'DA, or SHEM'IDA, (Heb. Shemida y'T'pjy, fame of wisdom ,) 
one of the six sons of Gilead, and founder of the family Shemidaites of the 




SHEMIDAH— SHEPHO. 489 

tribe of Manasseh. Num. xxvi, 32; Josh, xvii, 2. His three sons are men- 
tioned in 1 Chron. vii, 19, where the name is given as “ Shemidah.” 

SHEMFDAH, (1 Chron. vii, 19.) See Shemlda. 

SHEMIR'AMOTH, (Heb. Shemiramoth', niftTDK*, name most high.) 

1. A Levite musician of the second degree in the choir founded by David, 
(1 Chron. xv, 18,) playing “with psalteries on Alamoth.” Ver. 20. B. C. 
about 1042. 

2. One of the Levites sent by Jehoshaphat to teach the law to the inhab- 
itants of Judah. 2 Chron. xvii, 8. B. C. 912. 

SHEMU'EL, (Heb. Shemuel ', heard of God.) 

1. Son of Ammihud, appointed from the tribe of Simeon to divide the land 
of Canaan. Num. xxxiv, 20. B. C. 1452. 

2. Samuel the prophet. 1 Chron. vi, 33. 

3. A descendant of Tola, and one of the chiefs of the tribe of Issachar. 
1 Chron. vii, 2. 

SHENA'ZAR, or SHEN'AZAR, (Heb. Shenatstsar', fiery tooth , 

or splendid leader ,) one of the sons of Jeconiah and brother of Salathiel. 
1 Chron. iii, 18. B. C. after 606. 

SHEFHATHI'AH, (1 Chron. ix, 8,) more properly Shephatiah, No. 2. 
SHEPHATI'AH, (Heb. Shephatyah', judged of Jehovah.) 

1. The fifth of the six sons born to David in Hebron. His mother’s name 
was Abital. 2 Sam. iii, 4 ; 1 Chron. iii, 3. B. C. about 1050. 

2. Son of Reuel and father of Meshullam, a Benjamite chieftain dwelling 
in Jerusalem after the captivity. 1 Chron. ix, 8. B. C. before 536. 

3. The Haruphite, or Hariphite, one of the Benjamite warriors who joined 
David in his retreat at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 5. B. C. about 1058. 

4. Son of Maachah and prince of the Simeonites in the time of David. 
1 Chron. xxvii, 16. B. C. about 1015. 

5. The last-named of the six sons of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, all of 
whom were richly endowed by their father. 2 Chron. xxi, 2, 3. B. C. 889. 

6. The family of Shephatiah, 372 in number, returned with Zerubbabel. 
Ezra ii, 4 ; Neh. vii, 9. A second detachment of eighty, with Zebadiah at 
their head, came up with Ezra. Ezra viii, 8. B. C. before 536. 

7. The family of another Shephatiah were among the children of Solo- 
mon’s servants who came up with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 57 ; Neh. vii, 59. 
B. C. before 536. 

8. A descendant of Perez, or Pharez, the son of Judah and ancestor of 
Athaiah. Neh. xi, 4. B. C. long before 536. 

9. i'he son of Mattan, one of the princes of Judah who counseled Zede- 
kiah to put Jeremiah in the dungeon. Jer. xxxviii, 1. B. C. 589. 

SHE "PHI, (Heb. Shephi', ’’Q^, bareness ,) the fourth of the five sons of 

• : 

Shobal, the son of Seir of Edom, (1 Chron. i, 40,) called in the parallel pas- 
sage (Gen. xxxvi, 23) Shepho, (Heb. Shepho, 12^, same meaning.) B. C. 
about 1853. 

SHE'PHO, (Gen. xxxvi, 23.) See Shephi. 

31 


490 


SHEPHUPHAN— SHETH. 


SHEPHU'PHAN, (Heb. Shephuphan', serpent ) one of the sons 

of Bela, the first-born of Benjamin. 1 Chron. viii, 5. His name is also writ- 
ten Shephupham (Authorized Version, “ Shupham,” Hum. xxvi, 39) and 
Muppim, Gen. xlvi, 21. 

SHE 'RAH, Heb. Sheer ah', mK^i kinswoman ,) daughter of Ephraim 

(1 Chron. vii, 24) and foundress of the two Beth-horons, and of TJzzen- 
Sherah. B. C. probably about 1450. This Ephraim was probably a de- 
scendant of the patriarch, and lived after Israel took possession of Canaan. 
(Keil, Commentary , in loco) 

SHEREBI'AH, (Heb. Sherebyah ', heat) a Levite of the family 

of Mahli, the son of Merari, who, with eighteen of his brethren, joined 
Ezra at the river Ahava. Ezra viii, 18, 24. When Ezra read the law to the 
people Sherebiah was among the Levites who assisted him. Neh. viii, *7. 
B. C. about 445. He took part in the psalm of confession and thanksgiving 
which was sung at the solemn fast after the Feast of Tabernacles, (Neh. 
ix, 4, 5,) and signed the covenant with Nehemiah. Neh. x, 12. He is 
again mentioned as among the chief of the Levites who belonged to the 
choir. Neh. xii, 8, 24. 

SHER'ESH, (Heb. same, root) son of Machir the Manassite by 

his wife Maachah. 1 Chron. vii, 16. 

SHERE'ZER, (for derivation see Sharezer,) a messenger sent, witli 
Regem-melech, in the fourth year of Darius, to inquire at the temple re- 
garding a day of humiliation in the fifth month. Zech. vii, 2. B. C. 518. 
SHESHA'I, (Heb. Sheshay ', whitish) one of the three sons of 

Anak who dwelt in Hebron, (Num. xiii, 22,) and were driven thence and 
slain by Caleb at the head of the children of Judah. Josh, xv, 14 ; Judg. 
i, 10. B. C. 1444, 

SHE'SHAN, (Heb. Sheshan ', ?%,) a son of Ishi, in the posterity of 

Jerahmeel, of the tribe of Judah. Having no sons, he gave his daughter, 
probably Ahlai, to his Egyptian slave, Jarha, through which union the line 
was perpetuated. 1 Chron. ii, 31, 34, 35. B. C. about 14*7 1. 

SHESHBAZ'ZAR, (Heb. Sheshbatstsar' , from Persian for 

worshiper of fire) the Chaldean or Persian name given, apparently, to Zerub- 
babel. Ezra i, 8, 11 ; v, 14, 16. That Sheshbazzar means Zerubbabel is evi- 
dent from, 1. His being called the “prince (N'bUn) of Judah,” a term 

marking him as head of the tribe in the Jewish sense ; 2. His being char- 
acterized as “ governor ” (nn3) appointed by Cyrus, both which Zerubbabel 

was ; and yet more distinctly by the assertion (Ezra v, 16) that “ Sheshbaz- 
zar laid the foundation of the house of God which is in Jerusalem ” com- 
pared with the promise to Zerubbabel, (Zech. iv, 9,) “ The hands of Zerub- 
babel have laid the foundation of this house, his hands shall also finish it,” 
— Smith, Dictionary , s. v. 

SHETH, (Heb. same, n$-) 

1. The patriarch Seth. 1 Chron, i, 1, 


SHETHAR — SHIMEAH. 


491 


2. In the Authorized Version of Num. xxiv, 17, the Heb. Sheth is ren- 
dered as a proper name, but there is reason to regard it as an appellative, 
and to translate, instead of “ the sons of Sheth,” “ the sons of tumult,” the 
wild warriors of Moab. (Compare Jer. xlviii, 45.) 

SHE'THAR, (Heb. Shethar', from Persian, a star,) one of the 

seven princes of Persia and Media who had access to the king’s presence, 
and were the first men in the kingdom, in the third year of Xerxes. Esth. 
i, 14. 

SHE'THAR-BOZ'NAI, (Chald. Shethar' Bozenay ', ‘Oj'p Persian, 

star of splendor ,) a Persian officer of rank, having a command in the prov- 
ince “ on this side the river ” under Tatnai, the satrap, in the reign of 
Darius Hystaspis. Ezra v, 3, 6 ; vi, 6, 13. He joined with Tatnai and the 
Apharsachites in trying to obstruct the progress of the temple in the time 
of Zerubbabel, and in writing a letter to Darius, of which a copy is pre- 
served in Ezra v. As regards the name Shethar-boznai,' it seems to be cer- 
tainly Persian. The first element of it appears as the name Shethar, one of 
the seven Persian princes in Esth. i, 14. (Smith.) 

SHE'VA, (Heb. text, Sheya', ; margin, Sheva', fcO£>.) 

1. The scribe or royal secretary of David. 2 Sam. xx, 25. He is called 
elsewhere Seraiah , (2 Sam. viii, 17,) Shisha , (1 Kings iv, 3,) and Shavsha. 
1 Chron. xviii, 16. 

2. Son of Caleb ben-Hezron by his concubine Maachah. 1 Chron. ii, 49. 
SHII/HI, (Heb. Shilchi', v6^, perhaps armed,) the father of Azubah, 

the mother of King Jehoshaphat. 1 Kings xxii, 42 ; 2 Chron. xx, 31. B. C. 
about 949. 

SHII/LEM, (Heb. Shillem', recompense ,) a son of Naphtali, (Gen. 

xlvi, 24 ; Num. xxvi, 49,) elsewhere (1 Chron. vii, 13} called Shallum, (q. v.) 

SHII/SHAH, (Heb. Shilshah', triad,) son of Zophah of the tribe 

of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 37. B. C. before 1015. 

SHIM'EA, (Heb. Shima', rumor , fame.) 

1. Son of David by Bathsheba, (1 Chron. iii, 5 ;) called in 2 Sam. v, 14 ; 
1 Chron. xiv, 4, Shammua, (q. v.) 

2. A Merarite Levite, son of Uzza and father of Haggiah. 1 Chron. vi, 30. 
B. C. before 1043. 

3. A Gershonite Levite, ancestor of Asaph the minstrel. 1 Chron. vi, 39. 
B. C. about 1200. 

4. The brother of David, (1 Chron. xx, 7 ;) elsewhere called Sliammah, 
Shimma, and Shimeah. 

SHHVTEAH, (Heb. Shimah', triad.) 

1. Brother of David and father of Jonathan and Jonadab, (2 Sam. xxi, 21 ;) 
called also Shammah, (1 Sam. xvi, 9,) Shimea , (1 Chron. xx, 7,) and Shimma. 
1 Chron. ii, 13. 

2. A descendant of Jehiel, the father or founder of Gibeon. 1 Chron. 
viii, 32. B. C. perhaps 536. He is called (1 Chron. ix, 38) Shimeam, 


492 


SHIMEAM — SHIMEI. 


SHIM'EAM, (Heb. Shimam DREGS', their fame,) the descendant of 
Jehiel, (1 Chron. ix, 38,) called in chap, viii, 32, Shimeah, (q. v.) 

SHIM'EATH, (Heb. Shimath ', nyftW, fem. of Shimeah,) an Ammon- 

itess, mother of Jozachar or Zabad, one of the murderers of King Joash. 
2 Kings xii, 21; 2 Chron. xxiv, 26. B. C. before 839. 

SHIM'EI, (Heb. Shimi' , my fame, or renowned.) 

1. Son of Gershom, the son of Levi, (Num. iii, 18 ; 1 Chron. vi, 17, 29 ; 
xxiii, 7, 9, 10; Zech. xii, 13;) called Shimi in Exod. vi, 17. In 1 Chron. 
vi, 29, according to the present text, he is called the son of Libni, and both 
are reckoned as sons of Merari, but there is reason to suppose that there is 
something omitted in this verse, as he is every- where else represented to be 
Libni’s brother. Dr. Strong ( Cyclopaedia ) conjectures that Shelomith should 
be read instead of Shimei in 1 Chron. xxiii, 10. Keil ( Commentary , in loco) 
thinks the Shimei. of vers. 7 and 9 to be another than the one in ver. 9. 

2. 1. Family. The son of Gera, a Benjamite of the house of Saul, and 
resident, during David’s reign, of Bahurim, on the other side of the Mount 
of Olives. 2 Sam. xvi, 5. 

2. History. (1) Curses David. When David, in his flight from Absa- 

lom, had come to Bahurim, Shimei ran out of the place cursing the king and 
pelting him and his servants with stones. Abishai wanted to put an end 
to this cursing, and requested permission to “ take off his head ; ” but was 
forbidden by the king, who said, “ It may be that the Lord will look on mine 
affliction, and that the Lord will requite me good for his cursing this day.” 
The royal party passed on, Shimei following them and casting stones and dirt 
as long as they were in sight. 2 Sam. xvi, 5-13. B. C. 1023. (2) Spared. 

The next we learn of Shimei is his suing for pardon at the hands of the king. 
Just as David was crossing the Jordan in the ferry boat (2 Sam. xix, 18) 
the first person to welcome him was Shimei, who may have seen him ap- 
proaching from the heights above. He threw himself at David’s feet in 
abject penitence, and, notwithstanding the desire of Abishai that he should 
be put to death, his life was spared. 2 Sam. xix, 16-23. (3) Executed. But 
the king’s suspicions were not set at rest by this submission ; and on his 
death- bed he recalls the whole scene to the recollection of his son Solomon. 
Solomon gave Shimei notice that from henceforth he must consider himself 
confined to the walls of Jerusalem on pain of death. He was to build a 
house in Jerusalem. 1 Kings ii, 36, 37. Eor three years the engagement 
was kept. At the end of that time, for the purpose of capturing two slaves 
who had escaped to Gath, he went out on his ass, and made his journey 
successfully. On his return the king took him at his word, and he was slain 
by Benaiah. Chap, ii, 38-46. B. C. 1011. 

3. One of the adherents of Solomon at the time of Adonijah's usurpa- 
tion. 1 Kings i, 8. B. C. 1015. Unless he is the same as Shimei the son 
of Elah, (1 Kings iv, 18,) Solomon's commissariat officer, or with Shimeah, 
or Shammah, David’s brother, it is impossible to identify him. 

4. Son of Elah, and Solomon’s commissariat officer in Benjamin. 1 Kings 
iv, 18. B. C. 1014. 

5. Son of Pedaiah and brother of Zerubbabel. 1 Chron. iii, 19. B. C. 536. 

6. A Simeonite, son of Zacchur. Special mention is made of his numer- 
ous family. 1 Chron. iv, 26, 27. B. C. perhaps before 1491. 


SHtMEON— SHIMRON. 493 

7. A Reubenite, son of Gog and father of Micah. 1 Chron. v, 4. 

8. A Gershonite Levite, son of Jahath. 1 Chron. vi, 42. 

9. Son of Jeduthun, and chief of the tenth division of the singers in Da- 
vid’s reign. 1 Chron. xxv, 17. B. C. about 1015. 

10. The Ramathite who was over David’s vineyards. 1 Chron. xxvii, 27. 
B. C. about 1015. 

11. A Levite of the sons of Heman, who took part in the purification of 
the temple under Hezekiah. 2 Chron. xxix, 14. B. C. 726. 

12. The Levite who, with his brother Cononiah, had charge of the offer- 
ings in the reign of Hezekiah. 2 Chron. xxxi, 12, 13. B. C. 726. Perhaps 
the same as the preceding. 

13. A Levite in the time of Ezra who had married a foreign wife. Ezra 
x, 23. B. C. 456. 

14. One of the family of Hashum, who put away his foreign wife at 
Ezra’s command. Ezra x, 33. 

1 5. A son of Bani, who had also married a foreign wife and put her away. 
Ezra x, 38. 

16. Son of Kish, a Benjamite, and ancestor of Mordecai. Esth. ii, 5. B. C. 
before 518. 

SHIM'EON, (see Simeon,) a layman of Israel, of the family of Harira, 
who had married a foreign wife, and divorced her in the time of Ezra. Ezra 
x, 31. 

SHIM / HI, a Benjamite, apparently the'same as Shema, the son of El- 
paal. 1 Chron. viii, 21. 

SHIM'I, (Exod. vi, 17.) See Shimei, No. 1. 

SHHYTMA, (1 Chron. ii, 13.) See Shimeah, No. 1. 

SHI'MON, (Heb. Shimon ', desert.) The four sons of Shimon are 

enumerated in an obscure genealogy of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 20. 
B. C. after 1451. 

SHUYTRATH, (Heb. Shimrath ', rnp$, guard,) a Benjamite, the ninth- 
named of the sons of Shimhi. 1 Chron. viii, 21. B. C. after 1451. 
SHIM'RI, (Heb. Shimri ', watchful.) 

1. Son of Shemaiah and head of a Simeonite family. 1 Chron. iv, 37. 
B. C. probably after 1451. 

2. The father of Jediael, one of David’s guard. 1 Chron. xi, 45. B. C. 
before 1047. 

3. The son of Elizaphan, and one of the Levites who aided in the purifi- 
cation of the temple under Hezekiah. 2 Chron. xxix, 13. B. C. 726. 

SHIM'RITH, (Heb. Shimrith rvnp^> fern, of Shimri ,) a Moabitess, 

mother of Jehozabad, one of the assassins of King Joash. 2 Chron. 
xxiv, 26. In 2 Kings xii, 21, she is called Shomer, (q. v.) 

SHUVTROM, (1 Chron. vii, 1.) See Shimron. 

SHIM'RON, (Heb. Shimron ', jnEK>, watch-post,) the fourth son of Issa- 

char, according to the lists of Genesis (xlvi, 13) and Numbers, (xxvi, 24,) 
and the head of the family of the Shimronites. B. C. 1706. In 1 Chron, 
vii, 1, later editions give “ Shimrom.” 


494 


SHIMSHAI — SHISHAK. 


SHIM'SHAI, (Heb. Simshay', sunny,) the scribe or secretary of 

Rehum, who was a kind of satrap of the conquered province of Judea and 
of the colony of Samaria, supported by the Persian court. Ezra iv, 8, 9, 
17, 23. He was apparently an Aramean, for the letter which he wrote to 
Artaxerxes was in Syriac, (Ezra iv, 7,) and the form of his name is in favor 
of this supposition. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

SHIN'AB, (Heb. Shinab' 1 father's tooth,) the king of Admah in 

the time of Abraham. Gen. xiv, 2. B. C. about 1913. 

SHIPH'I, (Heb. Shiphi ' abundant ,) a Simeonite, father of Ziza, a 

prince of the tribe in the time of Hezekiah. 1 Chron. iv, 37. B. C. before 
726. 

SHIPH'RAH, (Heb. Shiphrah', brightness ,) the name of one of 

the two midwives of the Hebrews who disobeyed the command of Pharaoh 
to kill the male children. Exod. i, 15-21. 

SHIFH'TAN, (Heb. Shiphtan', judicial ,) father of Kemuel, a 

prince of the tribe of Ephraim, and one of the commissioners to divide 
Canaan. Num. xxxiv, 24. B. C. 1452. 

SHI'SHA, (Heb. Shisha', father of Elihoreph and Ahiah, the 

royal secretaries in the reign of Solomon. 1 Kings iv, 3. B. C. before 1014. 
He is apparently the same as Shavsha , who held the same position under 
David. 

SHFSHAK, (Heb. Shishak', once p king of Egypt, the She- 

shenk I. of the monuments, first sovereign of the Bubastite twenty-second 
dynasty. 

History. (1) The origin of the royal line of which Sheshenk I. was the 
head is extremely obscure. Lepsius gives a genealogy of Sheshenk I. from 
the tablet of Harp-sen from the Serapeum which, if correct, decides the 
question. In this Sheshenk I. is the son of a chief Namuret, whose an- 
cestors, excepting his mother, who is called “ royal mother,” are all untitled 
persons, and, all but the princess, bear foreign, apparently Shemitic, names. 

(2) Reign. Sheshenk I., on his accession, must have found the state weak- 
ened by internal strife and deprived of much of its foreign influence. She- 
shenk took as the title of his standard, “ He who attains royalty by uniting 
the two regions, [of Egypt.] ” He himself probably married the heiress of 
the Rameses family, while his son and successor, Usarken, appears to have 
taken to wife the daughter, and perhaps heiress, of the Tanite twenty-first dy- 
nasty. Probably it was not until late in his reign that he was able to carry 
on the foreign wars of the earlier king who captured Gezer. It is observable 
that we trace a change of dynasty in the policy that induced Sheshenk, at 
the beginning of his reign, to receive the fugitive Jeroboam. 1 Kings xi, 40. 

(3) Invades Judah. The king of Egypt does not seem to have commenced 
hostilities during the powerful reign of Solomon. It was not until the divi- 
sion of the tribes that, probably at the instigation of Jeroboam, he attacked 
Rehoboam. “ In the fifth year of King Rehoboam, Shishak king of Egypt 
came up against Jerusalem, because they had transgressed against the Lord, 
With twelve hundred chariots, and threescore thousand horsemen : and the 


SHITRAI — SHOBEK. 


495 


people [were] without number that came with him out of Egypt ; the Lubim, 
the Sukkiim, and the Cushim. And he took the fenced cities which [per- 
tained] to Judah, and came to Jerusalem.” 2 Chron. xii, 2-4. Shishak did 
not pillage Jerusalem, but exacted all the treasures of his city from Reho- 
boam, and apparently made him tributary. Ver. 5, 9-12, especially 8. The 
narrative in Kings mentions only the invasion and the exaction. 1 Kings xiv, 
25, 26. Shishak has left a record of this expedition, sculptured on the wall 
of the great temple of El-Karnak. It is a list of the countries, cities, and 
tribes conquered or ruled by him, or tributary to him. In this list Cham- 
pollion recognized a name which he translated incorrectly “ the kingdom of 
Judah,” and was thus led to trace the names of certain cities of Palestine. 
The Pharaohs of the empire passed through northern Palestine to push their 
conquests to the Euphrates and Mesopotamia. Shishak, probably unable to 
attack the Assyrians, attempted the subjugation of Palestine and the tracts 
of Arabia which border Egypt, knowing that the Arabs would interpose an 
effectual resistance to any invader of Egypt. He seems to have succeeded 
in consolidating his power in Arabia. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

SHIT'RAI, (Heb. Shitray', decisive ,) the Sharonite who had charge 
of David’s herds that fed in Sharon. 1 Chron. xxvii, 29. B. C. about 1015. 

SHI'ZA, (Heb. Shiza', splendor ,) the father of Adina, one of Da- 

vid’s Reubenite warriors. 1 Chron. xi, 42. B. C. before 1047. 

SHO'BAB, (Heb. Shobab', rebellious.) 

1. Second-named of the sons born to David in Jerusalem. 2 Sam. v, 14; 
1 Chron. iii, 5 ; xiv, 4. B. C. about 1043. 

2. Apparently the son of Caleb, the son of Hezron, by his wife Azubah. 
1 Chron. ii, 18. B. C. about 1471. 

SHO'BACH, (Heb. Shobak', expansion ,) the general of Hadarezer, 

king of the Syrians of Zoba, who was defeated by David in person at Helam. 
Shobach was wounded, and died on the field. 2 Sam. x, 15-18. In 1 Chron. 
xix, 16, 18, he is called Shophach. B. C. 1036. 

SHO'BAI, (Heb. Shobay ', taking captive.) The children of Shobai 

were a family of the door-keepers of the temple who returned with Zerub- 
babel. Ezra ii, 42; Neh. vii, 45. B. C. before 536. 

SHO'BAL, (Heb. Shobai ', ^ 2 )$, flowing, or a shoot.) 

1. The second son of Seir the Horite, (Gen. xxxvi, 20; 1 Chron. i, 38,) 
and one of the “ dukes ” or phylarchs of the Horites. Gen. xxxvi, 29. B. C. 
about 1840. 

2. One of the three sons of Hur, the son of Caleb. 1 Chron. ii, 50. He 
became the founder (“father”) of Kirjath-jearim. B. C. about 1471. The 
passage should probably be rendered, “ These are the sons (that is descend- 
ants) of Caleb through his son Hur,” etc. See Keil, ( Commentary , in loco.) 
In 1 Chron. iv, 1, 2, Shobai appears with Hur among the sons of Judah. 
He is possibly the same as the preceding. 

SHO'BEK, (Heb. Shobek forsaking ,) one of the heads of the peo- 
ple who sealed the covenant with Nehemiah. Neh. x, 24. B. C. 445. 


496 


SHOBI — SHUNT. 


SHO'BI, (Heb. Shobi ', taking captive ,) son of Nahash of Rabbah of 

the children of Ammon. He was one of the first to meet David at Maha- 
naim on his flight from Absalom, and supply him with bedding, cooking 
utensils, and food. 2 Sam. xvii, 27. B. C. 1023. 

SHO'HAM, (Heb. same, Dilfc),) onyx, a Merarite Levite, son of Jaaziah, 
employed about the ark by David. 1 Chron. xxiv, 27. B. C. 1015. 
SHO'MER, (Heb. Shomer', keeper.) 

1. Second-named of the three sons of Heber, an Asherite, (1 Chron. 
vii, 32,) called in ver. 34 Shamer, (q. v.) 

2. The father of Jehozabad, who slew King Joash, (2 Kings xii, 21 ;) in 
the parallel passage in 2 Chron. xxiv, 26, the name is converted into the 
feminine form Shimrith, who is further described as a Moabitess. “ This 
variation may have originated in the dubious gender of the preceding name 
Shimeath, which is also made feminine by the chronicler. Others suppose 
that in Kings the father is named, and in Chronicles the mother.” — M’Clin- 
tock and Strong’s Cyclopaedia, s. v. 

SHO'FHACH, (Heb. Shophak ', probably a variation of Shobak,) 

the general of Hadarezer, (1 Chron. xix, 16, 18,) called in 2 Sam. x, 16, 
Shobach, (q. v.) 

SHU'A. s 

1. (Heb. Shu'a, a cry for help, wealth , or an oath,) a Canaanite 

of Adullam, whose daughter was the wife of Judah and the mother of his 
first three children. Gen. xxxviii, 2, 12 ; in both passages the Authorized 
Version has incorrectly “Shuah.” 1 Chron. ii, 3. B. C. about 1727. 

2. (Heb. Shva', same as No. 1,) the daughter of Heber, the grand- 

son of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 32. 

SHU'AH. 

1. (Heb. Shu'ach, rpl55>, pit,) the last-named of the six sons of Abraham 

by Keturah. Gen. xxv, 2 ; 1 Chron. i, 32. B. C. after 1853. 

2. The father of Judah’s Canaanitish wife. 1 Chron. ii, 3. See Shua, 
No. 1. 

3. (Heb. Shuchah', nrtt$, « pit,) a brother (some MSS. have son) of Che- 

lub, among the descendants of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 11. 

SHU'AL, (Heb. Shudl ' , $, fox, jackal,) third-named of the eleven sons 

of Zophah. 1 Chron. vii, 36. 

SHU'BAEL, (Heb. Shubael', ^2!)6J>=Shebuel,) two Levites. 1 Chron. 

•• r 

xxiv, 20 ; xxv, 20 ; called elsewhere Shebuel, (q. v.) 

SHU'HAM, (Heb. Shucham', pit-digger , or humility ,) the son of 

Dan, (Num. xxvi, 42 ;) elsewhere (Gen. xlvi, 23) called Hushim, (q. v.) 

SHU'NI, (Heb. Shuni', "0^, quiet, or fortunate ,) son of Gad, and founder 
of the family of the Shunites. Gen. xlvi, 16 ; Num. xxvi, 15. B. C. 1706. 


SHtTPHAM — SIHON. 


497 


SHU'PHAM, (Heb. Shephupham ', probably an adder,) given in 

Num. xxvi, 39, as a “ son ” of Benjamin and head of the family of Shupham- 
ites. He is doubtless the same person elsewhere (1 Chron. viii, 5) called 
Shephuphan, (q. v.) He was, if the same person, a son of Bela, the son of 
Benjamin, and was reckoned among Benjamin’s sons, because, like them, he 
founded an independent family. (Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary , in loco.) 

SHUP / PIM, (Heb. Shuppim', or probably serpents .) 

1. In the genealogy of Benjamin “ Shuppim and Huppim, the children of 
Ir,” are reckoned in 1 Chron. vii, 12. Ir is the same as Iri, the son of Bela, 
the son of Benjamin, so that Shuppim was the great-grandson of Benjamin. 
To avoid the difficulty of supposing that Benjamin had a great-grandson at 
the time he went down into Egypt, Lord Hervey conjectures that Shuppim 
or Shephuphan was a son of Benjamin, whose family was reckoned with 
that of Ir or Iri. This is unnecessary, as the date is that of Jacob’s death. 

2. A Levite who, together with Hosah, had charge of the temple gate 
Shallecheth. 1 Chron. xxvi, 16. B. C. about 1015. Keil ( Commentary, in 
loco) thinks that the word has come into the text by a repetition of the two 
last syllables of the preceding word. 

SHU'THELAH, (Heb. Shuthe'lach , r6rflE^, perhaps noise of breaking.) 

1. First-named of the three sons of Ephraim. Num. xxvi, 35, 36. B. C. 
after 1689. His descendants to a second Shuthelah are given in 1 Chron. 
vii, 20, 21. 

2. The sixth in descent from the preceding, being the son of Zabad and 
father of Ezer and Elead. 1 Chron. vii, 21. B. C. probably after 1451. 

SI' A, (Heb. Sia', NITD, congregation ,) one of the chief of the Nethinim, 

whose “ children ” returned with Zerubbabel. Neh. vii, 47. B. C. before 
536. In Ezra ii, 44, the name is given as Siaha. 

SI'AHA, (Heb. Siaha ', KHJfip, congregation ,) a chief Nethinim. Ezra ii, 44. 
In Neh. vii, 47, he is called Sia, (q. v.) 

SIB'BECAI, or SIBBECHA'I, (Heb. Sibbekay ', •gap, thicket of Jeho- 
vah, or weaver ,) “ the Hushathite,” probably so called from his birthplace. 
1 Chron. xi, 29. He belonged to the prominent family of Judah, the Zar- 
hites, and was captain of the 24,000 men of David’s army serving in the 
eighth month. Sibbecai’s great exploit, which gave him a place among the 
mighty men of David’s army, was his combat with Saph, or Sippia, the 
Philistine giant, in the battle at Gezer, or Gob. 2 Sam. xxi, 18 ; 1 Chron. 
xx, 4. B. C. about 1018. 

SI'DON, (Gen. x, 15.) See Zidon. 

Sl/HON, (Heb. Sichon ', prPD, or frequently jlYD, warrior , or bold,) the 

king of the Amorites who refused to the Israelites permission to pass 
through his territory when nearing the promised land. Shortly before the 
time of Israel’s arrival he had dispossessed the Moabites of a splendid terri- 
tory, driving them south of the natural bulwark of the Arnon. Num. xxi, 
26-29. When the Israelite host appears he does not hesitate or temporize, 
like Balak, but at once gathers his people together and attacks them. Yer. 21. 


498 


SILAS— SIMEON. 


But the oattle was his last. He and all his host were destroyed, and their 
district from Arnon to Jabbok became at once the possession of the con- 
queror. B. C. 1452. 

SI'LAS, one of the leaders of the Church in Jerusalem. 

1. Name and Family. Of his immediate family no account is given, 
but his name, derived from the Latin silva, “ wood,” betokens him a Hellen- 
istic Jew, and he appears to have been a Roman citizen. Acts xvi, 37. He 
is probably the same as Sylvanus "mentioned in Paul’s epistles. 

2. History. (1) At Antioch. Silas was appointed a delegate to accom- 
pany Paul and Barnabas on their return to Antioch with the decree of the 
Council of Jerusalem. Acts xv, 22, 32. After accomplishing this mission he 
remained in Antioch, or soon returned from Jerusalem. Ver. 33, 40. 
(2) Paul’s Companion. Selected by Paul as the companion of his second 
missionary journey, (Acts xv, 40,) he was scourged and imprisoned with 
Paul at Philippi. At Beroea he was left behind with Timothy, while Paul 
proceeded to Athens, (Acts xvii, 14,) and we hear nothing more of his 
movements until he rejoined the apostle at Corinth. Acts xviii, 5. His pres- 
ence at Corinth is several times noticed. 2 Cor. i, 19; 1 Thess. i, 1 ; 2 Thess. 
i, 1. He probably returned to Jerusalem with- Paul, where he remained, 
ceasing any longer to be his companion. Whether he was the Sylvanus 
who conveyed Peter’s First Epistle to Asia Minor (1 Pet. v, 12) is doubtful; 
the probabilities are in favor of the identity. A tradition of very slight au- 
thority represents Silas to have become bishop of Corinth. A. D. 52-60. 

SILVA / NUS, (Gr. hilovavoc, of the grove,) a companion of the apostle 
Paul in his journey through Asia Minor and Greece, (2 Cor. i, 19 ; 1 Thess. 
i, 1 ; 2 Thess. i, 1 ; 1 Pet. v, 12,) given in the book of Acts as Silas, (q. v.) 

SIM'EON. 1. 1. Name and Family. (Heb. Shimon , a 

hearkening.) The second son of Jacob by Leah. Gen. xxix, 33. B. C. 1751. 

2. Personal History. (1) Massacre of the Shechemites. In connec- 
tion with Levi, Simeon undertook to avenge the seduction of their sister 
Dinah, (q. v.,) but performing such acts of wanton cruelty and injustice 
upon the Shechemites that Jecob was fearful of the surrounding people. In 
obedience, therefore, he removed southward to Bethel. Gen. xxxiv; xxxv, 1. 
(2) In Egypt. He was selected as hostage for the appearance of Benjamin, 
(Gen. xlii, 24, 36,) but was subsequently released. Gen. xliii, 23. B. C. 1707. 

3. Character. Judging from Jacob’s dying words (Gen. xlix, 5-7) and 
from Jewish traditions, he was artful, fierce, and cruel. 

4. The Tribe of Simeon. At the migration into Egypt, Simeon had six 
sons. At the exodus, the tribe numbered 59,300 warriors, (Num. i, 23,) 
ranking third. When the second census was taken the numbers had de- 
creased to 22,200, and ranked lowest of the tribes. Num. xxvi, 14. The 
assignment of Simeon in the promised land was “ within the inheritance of 
the children of Judah.” Josh, xix, 1-9 ; 1 Chron. iv, 28-33. This territory, 
which contained eighteen or nineteen cities, with their villages spread 
around the venerable well of Beersheba, was possessed by the help of Judah. 
Judg. i, 3, 17. 

2. An Israelite who divorced his Gentile wife. Ezra x, 31. See Shimeon. 

3. A just and devout Israelite, endowed with the gift of prophecy, and 
who, having received divine intimation that his death would not take pla«e 


SIMON. 


499 


till he had seen the Messiah, entered the temple, and there recognizing the 
Holy Child, took him in his arms and gave thanks for the privilege of see- 
ing Jesus. Luke ii, 25-35. B. C. 4, (6.) All attempts to identify him with 
other Simeons have failed. 

4. The son of Judah and father of Levi in the genealogy of our Lord. 
Luke iii, 30. He is perhaps the same with Maaseiah, the son of Adaiah. 
2 Chron. xxiii, 1. 

5. The proper name of Niger, one of the teachers and prophets in the 
Church at Antioch, (Acts xiii, 1,) in which passage only he is mentioned. 
This name shows that he was a Jew by birth, taking that of Niger as more 
convenient in his intercourse with foreigners. 

6. A form (Acts xv, 14) of the name of Simon Peter. 

SI'MON, (Gr. 2 iyuv, perhaps a contraction of the Hebrew Shimeon— 
Simeon.) 

1. One of the apostles, usually called Simon Peter, (q. v.) 

2. Simon the Canaanite, one of the twelve apostles, (Matt, x, 4 ; Mark 
iii, 18,) otherwise described as Simon Zelotes. Luke vi, 15 ; Acts i, 13. The 
latter term, Zykorriq, which is peculiar to Luke, is the Greek equivalent for 
the Chaldean term (JK3p, zealous) preserved by Matthew and Mark. Each of 

these equally points out Simon as belonging to the faction of the Zealots, 
who were conspicuous for their fierce advocacy of the Mosaic ritual. He is 
not to be identified with Simon the brother of Jesus. 

3. A brother of the apostles James and Jude, and a kinsman of Jesus. 
Matt, xiii, 55 ; Mark vi, 3. He is by many thought to be the same with Si- 
mon the Canaanite, but for this there is no evidence. The prevailing opinion 
is that he is identical with the Symeon who became bishop of Jerusalem 
after the death of James, but Eusebius makes them two persons. 

4. Simon the Leper. A resident at Bethany, distinguished as “ the 
leper.” It is not improbable that he had been miraculously cured by Jesus. 
In his house Mary anointed Jesus preparatory to his death and burial. Matt, 
xxvi, 6, etc. ; Mark xiv, 3, etc. ; John xii, 1, etc. 

5. Simon ofCyrene. A Hellen istic Jew , born at Cyren e, on the north 
coast of Africa, who was present at Jerusalem at the time of the crucifixion 
of Jesus, either as an attendant at the feast (Acts ii, 10) or as one of the 
numerous settlers at Jerusalem from that place. Acts vi, 9. Meeting the 
procession that conducted Jesus to Golgotha, as he was returning from the 
country, he was pressed into the service to bear the cross (Matt, xxvii, 32 ; 
Mark xv, 21 ; Luke xxiii, 26) when Jesus himself was unable to bear it any 
longer. Mark describes him as the father of Alexander and Rufus, per- 
haps because this was the Rufus known to the Roman Christians, (Rom. 
xvi, 13,) for whom he more specially wrote. The Basilidian Gnostics be- 
lieved that Simon suffered in lieu of Jesus. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

6. The Pharisee in whose house a penitent woman washed the feet of Je- 
sus witli her tears, and anointed them with ointment. Luke vii, 40, 43, 44. 

7. The father of Judas Iscariot. John vi, 71 ; xii, 4 ; xiii, 2, 26. 

8. The Samaritan magician living in the age of the apostles, and usually 
designated in latter history as Simon Magus. According to Justin Martyr 
(. Apol ., i, 26) he was born at Gitton, a village of Samaria, identified with 
the modern Kuryet Jit , near Mbulus. (1) Early Life. He was probably 
educated at Alexandria, and there became acquainted with the eclectic ten- 


506 


SiMRl— SISERA. 


ets of the Gnostic school. Either then or subsequently he was a pupil of 
Dositheus, who preceded him as a teacher of Gnosticism in Samaria, and 
whom he supplanted with the aid of Cleobius. (2) A Disciple. He is first 
introduced to us in the Bible as practicing magical arts in a city of Samaria, 
perhaps Sychar, (Acts viii, 5 ; compare John iv, 5,) and with such success 
that he was pronounced to be “the power of God which is called great.” 
Acts viii, 10. .The preaching and miracles of Philip having excited his ob- 
servation, he became one of his disciples, and received baptism at his hands. 
(3) Rebuked. Subsequently he witnessed the effect produced by the impo- 
sition of hands, as practiced by the apostles Peter and John, and, being 
desirous of acquiring a similar power, he offered a sum of money for 
it. His object evidently was to apply the power to the prosecution of 
magical arts. The motive and the means were equally to be reprobated ; 
and his proposition met with a severe denunciation from Peter, followed by a 
petition on the part of Simon, the tenor of which bespeaks terror but not 
penitence. Acts viii, 9-24. Prom his endeavor to obtain spiritual functions 
by a bribe is derived the word simony. There are many stories concerning 
his subsequent career which are, without doubt, fabulous ; and the supposed 
statue to him is believed, from a tablet found in 1574 on the Insula Tiberina, 
to have been erected to the Sabine god, Semo Sancus. (See Farrar’s St. Paul, 
i, 260.) 

9. The Tanner, a Christian convert with whom Peter lodged while at 
Joppa. His house was by the sea-side, as the trade of a tanner was con- 
sidered unclean by the Jews and not allowed to be carried on inside their 
towns. Acts ix, 43 ; x, 6, 17, 32. 

SIM / RI, (Heb. Shimri', vigilant ,) son of the Merarite Levite 

Hosah. He was not the first-born, but for some reason his father made him 
“chief among his brethren.” He was appointed by David door-keeper of 
the ark. 1 Chron. xxvi, 10. B. C. about 1015. 

SIP'PAI, (Heb. Sippay', 'Qp. my thresholds,) one of the sons of “ the 

giants” slain by Sibbechai at Gezer, (1 Chron. xx, 4;) called in the parallel 
passage (2 Sara, xxi, 18) by the equivalent name Saph, (q. v.) 

SISAM'AI, or SIS'AMAI, (Heb. Sismay', 'Dpp, meaning doubtful,) 

son of Eleasah and father of Shallum, descendants of Sheshan in the line of 
Jerahmeel. 1 Chron. ii, 40. B. C. before 1451. 

SIS'ERA, (Heb. Sisera', fcOD'D. battle array) 

1. The “ captain ” of the army of Jobin, king of Canaan. He dwelt in 
Harosheth of the Gentiles, (probably situated in one of the larger plains of 
Galilee [Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary , in loco,]) and for twenty years op- 
pressed the Israelites with a force of 900 chariots of iron. Judg. iv, 2, 3. 
B. 0. about 1316 to 1296. When Sisera received tidings of the march of Ba- 
rak to Mount Tabor he mustered his army at the Kislion, where it was 
thrown into confusion and utterly routed. Vers. 10-16. Sisera, to save 
himself, sprang from his chariot and fled on foot. He took refuge in the 
tent of Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite. She received the fugitive in 
the usual form of Oriental hospitality, but when he had fallen asleep Jael 
took a tent-stake and drove it into his temples, so that he died. Vers. 17-22. 
See Jael. 



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SO — SOLOMON. 


501 


2. The name re-appears in the lists of the Nethinim who returned from 
the captivity with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 53 ; Neh. vii, 55. It doubtless tells 
of Canaanite captives devoted to the lowest offices of the temple. 

SO, (Heb. So, NiD,) a king of Egypt. Hoshea, the last king of Israel, 
evidently intending to become the vassal of Egypt, sent messengers to So, 
and made no present, as had been the yearly custom to the king of Assyria. 
2 Kings xvii, 4. B. C. 125. The consequence of this step was the impris- 
onment of Hoshea, the taking of Samaria, and the carrying captive of the 
ten tribes. Chap, xviii, 10, 11. 

Identification. “It has been questioned whether this So was the same 
with Sabaco, the first king of the Ethiopian dynasty in Upper Egypt, or his 
son and successor Sevechus, the second king of the same dynasty and the 
immediate predecessor of Tirhakah . . . This name, in Egyptian Sevech, is 
also that of the god Saturn.” — Kitto, Cyclopaedia, s. v. 

SO'DI, (Heb. Sodi', 'TiD, intimate ,) father of Gaddiel, the spy appointed 
to represent the tribe of Zebulun. Num. xiii, 10. B. C. 1490. 

SOL'OMON. 1 . Name and Family. (Heb. Shelomoh', T\obP) Pacific; 

also named, at the command of Nathan, Jedidiah, beloved of Jehovah.) A 
son of King David by Bathsheba. 2 Sam. xii, 24; 1 Chron. iii, 5. B. C. 
1033. 

2. Personal History. (1) His Youth. Nothing is known of Solomon’s 
youth, unless it be that he was brought up by Nathan the prophet. 2 Sam. 
xii, 25, where the true reading probably is, “ and he intrusted him to Na- 
than,” etc. (Kitto, Stanley.) He was Bathsheba’s favorite son, “ tender and 
only beloved in the sight of his mother,” (Prov. iv, 3,) and to her David had 
pledged her son’s accession by a separate and solemn oath. 1 Kings i, 13, 
17, 30. (2) Appointed Successor. When David had become enfeebled by 

age, his son Adonijah endeavored to 
place himself upon the throne, and so 
far succeeded as to have himself pro- 
claimed king at En-rogel. 1 Kings i, 

5-9, 25. Nathan informed Bathshe- 
ba of these proceedings, and they 
together succeeded in rousing the 
languid energies of the king, who 
acted with prudence and decision. 

At his command Zadok the priest 
and Nathan the prophet, supported 
by Benaiah with the body-guard of 
Cherethites and Pelethites, pro- 
claimed Solomon king amid the rejoicings of the people, and anointed him 
with the sacred oil, which Zadok took out of the tabernacle. B. C. 1015. 
1 Kings i, 32-40. A constant memorial of this solemnity is presented in 
the seventy-second Psalm. The last act of David was to send for Solomon 
and urge upon him obedience to the statutes of Jehovah, so that he might 
enjoy prosperity. He also told him how to deal with Joab, Barzillai, and 
Shimei. 1 Kings ii, 1-9. Upon hearing tidings of Solomon’s appointment, 
Adonijah fled to the altar for refuge, but received assurance from Solomon 
that his life would be spared if he proved worthy of cleipency. 1 Kings i^ 



502 


SOLOMON, 


50-53. (3) Solomon’s Reign. In accordance with our plan, we shall en- 

deavor to give the narrative of Solomon’s reign chronologically. This is a 
matter of great difficulty, because we have very few notices of time, and 
also because of the confusion of the various texts describing it. 1. Dis- 
poses of enemies. Adonijah, shortly after Solomon’s accession, made a re- 
quest that Abishag, David’s concubine, should be given him for a wife. 
This was interpreted as an act of treason, and Adonijah was put to death ; 
Abiathar was dispossessed of the priesthood, and Zadok put in his place , 
Joab was slain because of the murder by him of Abner and Amasa; 
Shimei was confined within the limits of Jerusalem, with the understanding 
that a trespass of the injunction would forfeit his life ; three years after he 
went to G-ath in pursuit of two of his servants who had fled from him, and 
was put to death. 1 Kings ii, 13-46. 2. Marriage. Having firmly seated 

himself upon the throne, Solomon sought to strengthen his kingdom by for- 
eign alliances, and married the daughter of the king of Egypt. 1 Kings iii, 1. 
“ This Pharaoh was probably a late king of the twenty-first (Tanite) dy- 
nasty; for the eminent head of the twenty-second dynasty, Sheshonk I., 

(Shishak,) belongs to 
the latter part of the 
reign of Solomon, and 
to that of Rehoboam.” 
— Smith, Old Testament 
History. 3. Solomon's 
choice. Notwithstand- 
ing this foreign al- 
liance, it is recorded 
that “ Solomon loved 

ALTAR OF BURNT OFFERING, ACCORDING TO MEYER. ^ W alkino- in 

the statutes of David, his father.” The only blot upon his conduct at this 
time that is recorded is that he sacrificed and burnt incense in high places. 
1 Kings iii, 3. In the course of a series of sacrifices (it may be) Solomon 
came to Gibeon, where the tabernacle stood. There, in the midst of a great 
convocation of the people, he sacrificed a thousand burnt-offerings upon the 
altar. In the following night God appeared to him in a dream, and asked 
him to choose what he should give him. Sensible of the responsibility rest- 
ing upon him, he implored for wisdom in preference to any other blessing. 
This was granted to him by the Lord, and riches and honor added, with the 
promise of long life if he was obedient to the commandment of God. As- 
sured of God’s favor, he returned to Jerusalem and renewed his sacrifices 
before the ark, and made a feast to all his servants. Chap, iii, 4-15. 
(4) Wise Judgment. An opportunity soon arose to prove his sagacity. 
Two women appeared before him with a dead and living child, each claiming 
the living one as her own. Solomon ordered the living child to be cut in 
twain. This the real mother could not endure, and begged him to spare the 
life of the babe. He, therefore, commanded the child to be restored to her. 
“ And all Israel heard of the judgment which the king had judged ; and 
they feared the king: for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to 
do judgment.” Chap, iii, 16-28. (5) National Prosperity. The general 

tone of the records of Solomon’s reign is that of jubilant delight. The hard, 
warlike reign of David was followed by one of peace and quiet. His own 
pourt was arranged on the same general basis as his father’s, but on a scale 



SOLOMON. 


503 


of greater magnificence. The supplies needed for the court were levied 
throughout the whole^and by twelve officers, “ each 
man his month in a year made provision.” The pro- 
vision for each day consisted of thirty measures of 
fine flour, sixty measures of meal, ten fat oxen and 
twenty from the pasture, and one hundred sheep, 
besides venison and fowl. Chap, iv, 22, 23. The 
peace and plenty of Israel are thus described : “ Ju- 
dah and Israel were many, as the sand which is by 
the sea in multitude, eating and drinking, and mak- 
ing merry.” Chap, iv, 20. “ And the king made sil- 

ver and gold at Jerusalem as plenteous as stones, 
and cedar-trees made he as sycamore-trees that are 
in the vale for abundance.” 2 Chron. i, 15. In his 
great military establishment Solomon set at naught 
the law against keeping up a force of cavalry. (See Deut. xvii, 16.) He 
had 40,000 stalls of horses for his 1,400 chariots, and 12,000 cavalry horses, 
besides fleet horses used for posts, (1 Kings iv, 26, 28,) dromedaries in the 
latter verses meaning “ swift horses .” 2 Chron. i, 14. (6) Sacred and Royal 

Buildings. It had been the intention of David in his later years to erect 
at Jerusalem a house for Jehovah, and for this he had made great prepara- 




FRONT VIEW.— SOLOMON’S TEMPLE, ACCORDING TO PAINE. 


tions. Immense quantities of gold and silver were collected, and the de- 
signs placed in the hands of Solomon. King Hiram sent an embassy of 
congratulation to Solomon on his accession, who returned an answer inform- 
ing Hiram of his intention of building a house to God, and requesting his 
assistance, which Hiram gladly promised. 1 Kings v, 1, sq. Hiram gave ce- 
dars and fir-trees out of Lebanon, which his servants felled, while those of 
Solomon squared and fitted them for their places in the building. The pro- 
visions for both parties were supplied by Solomon. The prepared timber 
was brought down to the sea, floated round to Joppa under the care of the 
Tyrian sailors, whence Solomon undertook the thirty miles’ transport to Je- 
rusalem. He employed, of the descendants of the Canaanites, 70, 000 to bear 
burdens, 80,000 to hew timber and stone in Lebanon, under 3,600 overseers. 
1 Kings v, 15, 16 ; 2 Chron. ii, 17, 18. He also raised a levy of 30,000 Is- 
raelites, whom he sent to work in Lebanon by relays of 10,000, each relay 
serving a month and returning home for two. 1 Kings v, 13, 14. The actual 
building of the temple was commenced in the fourth year of Solomon’s reign, 
and the 480th from the exodus. B. C. 1012. Chap, vi, 1 ; 2 Chron. iii, 2, 


504 


SOLOMON. 


It was completed in seven and a half years, in the eighth month (Bui) of the 
eleventh year of Solomon. B. C. 1005. Chap, vi, 38. The sit? prepared for 



WEST END. 


it by David had formerly been the threshing-floor of Oman, on Mount 
Moriah. The dedication was a ceremony of remarkable grandeur. It took 
place in the month Ethanim (October) of the succeeding year, the delay be- 
ing, no doubt, in order to accommodate it to the feast of tabernacles. It was 
held the week preceding that festival, and was attended by the whole people 
and all the priests. Solomon made the prayer of consecration, after which 
he and all'the people offered their sacrifices, 22,000 oxen and 120,000 sheep. 
The feast of dedication lasted seven days, followed by the seven of the feast 
of tabernacles, and the people returned to their homes “joyful and glad of 



INTERIOR. 


heart for all the goodness that the Lord had done for David his servant, 
$nd for Israel his people.” Chap, viii; 2 Chron. v, vi, vii. This superb 



SOLOMON. 


505 


structure was followed by others of great magnificence ; a palace for him- 
self, which consumed thirteen years in its erection ; the house of the forest 
of Lebanon ; and a third for his queen. Pharaoh’s daughter. 1 Kings vii, 
1-12. On the completion of this palace he conducted her to it in state from 
the city of David. 1 Kings ix, 24; 2 Chron. viii, 11. “Among his other 
buildings may be mentioned a summer palace in Lebanon, (1 Kings ix, 19 ; 
Cant, vii, 4,) stately gardens at Etham, (Eccl. ii, 5, 6,) the foundations of 
something like a stately school or college, costly aqueducts. About the same 
time Solomon undertook the repairs of the fortress of Zion, as well as Millo 
itself.” — Smith, Old Testament History. He also fortified the towns Hazor, 
Megiddo, Gezer, Beth-horon, (Upper and Lower,) Baalath and Tadmor. 
1 Kings ix, 15—18 ; 2 Chron. viii, 4-6. The services of King Hiram were 
acknowledged by a cession of twenty cities along the sea-coast of Galilee, 
a gift at which Hiram expressed his discontent by a play upon the name of 
one of them, Cabal , a word signifying dirt. Hiram returned them with a 
gift of 1 20 talents of gold, and the alliance of the two kings remained un- 
impaired. 1 Kings ix, 11-14. (7) Second Vision. After the completion of 

these works God appeared a second time to Solomon by night, assuring 
him that he had heard his prayer, accepted the temple as a house of sacri- 
fice, promising to establish his kingdom, warning him, however, of the ruin 
that would follow disobedience. 1 Kings ix, 1-9; 2 Chron. vii, 12-22. 
(8) Commerce. Solomon put forth vigorous efforts to promote the com- 
merce and trade of his country. To increase the land traffic he had small 
cities built in advantageous localities, in which goods of all sorts in large 
quantities were kept in suitable store-houses. While thus linking his do- 
minions with the great 
highways of commerce to 
the north and north-east, 
he opened the path of mari- 
time enterprise, both in the 
Mediterranean and Indian 
Ocean, in conjunction with 
the Tyrian fleets of Hiram. 

The fleets built by Solomon, 
and navigated by the skilled 
mariners of Hiram, sailed to 
Ophir, a place in the Indian 
Ocean, probably on the east- 
ern coast of Arabia, and re- 
turned after a three years’ 
voyage, bringing gold, sil- 
ver, ivory, and precious 
stones, almond-trees, apes, 
and peacocks. 1 Kings ix, 

26-28; x, 22; 2 Chron. 
viii, 17, 18. (9) Wealth. 

Solomon’s revenue had so 
greatly increased that it was 
variously stated (perhaps in 
different years) at 420, 450, and 666 talents. Silver was so abundant as 
scarcely to be esteemed a precious metal, and all the king’s drinking vessels 

32 



SOLOMON’S THRONE. 


506 


SOLOMON. 


were of gold. Solomon bad 200 shields made, each of which was overlaid 
with about eighteen pounds of gold; and 300 smaller ones, whose cover- 
ing of gold weighed about nine pounds. His throne was magnificently con- 
structed of gold and silver, and was so remarkable that “ there was not 
the like made in any'kingdom.” 1 Kings x, 14-23. (10) Queen of Sheba. So 
great had King Solomon become that he “exceeded all the kings of the earth 
for riches and wisdom. Solomon received visitors from all parts of the world, 
who came to hear his wisdom, bringing vast presents of gold, silver, gar- 
ments, armor, spices, horses, and mules. 1 Kings x, 23-25. Among these 
illustrious visitors the most distinguished was the queen of Sheba, (see 
Difficulties,) who came with a great caravan of camels, bearing gold, 
precious stones, and spices. “She came to prove him with hard questions,” 
(enigmas or riddles,) by which to test Solomon’s wisdom. Solomon gratified 
her curiosity and thirst for knowledge, drawing out her confidence until 
“she communed with him of all that was in her heart.” The wisdom of 
the king and the magnificence of his surroundings completely overwhelmed 
the queen: “there was no more spirit in her.” She confessed that the re- 
port which had reached her did not tell half the truth respecting his great- 
ness and wisdom. Solomon dismissed her with valuable presents, and she 
returned to her own country. 1 Kings x, 1-13 ; 2 Chron. ix, 1-12. (11) Ex- 

tent of Dominion. “And Solomon reigned over all kingdoms from the river 

unto the land of the Philistines, and 
unto the border of Egypt : they 
brought presents, and served Solo- 
mon all the days of his life.” 1 Kings 
iv, 21; 2 Chron. ix, 26. The terri- 
tory over which Solomon ruled in- 
cluded all the kingdoms “ from the 
river,” the great Euphrates, (com- 
pare Gen. xv, 18,) “ unto the land of 
the Philistines,” lying on the Medi- 
terranean coast to the west of Judea, 
and “ unto the border of Egypt.” 
These separate kingdoms doubtless 
preserved their separate organization 
and nationality, as when independent, 
but were ever ready both to contrib- 
ute to the annual revenues of Solo- 
mon and also to furnish, when occa- 
sion offered, their quota of men for 
any public service. (Whedou, Com- 
mentary.) (12) Sin. The great wis- 
dom of Solomon appears to have 
been insufficient to keep him from 
falling into evil practices, for we read 
that “King Solomon loved many 
strange women, together with the 
daughter of Pharaoh, women of the 
Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Zi- 
donians, and Hittites ; . . . and he had seven hundred wives, princesses, 
and three hundred concubines: and his wives turned away his heart! 



SOLOMON’S PALACE, PLAN OF. 


SOLOMON. 


507 


For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his 
heart after other gods : and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God, 
as was the heart of David his father. For Solomon went after Ashtoreth 
the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Am- 
monites. And Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord, and went not fully 
after the Lord, as did David, his father. Then did Solomon build a high place 
for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, 
and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon. And likewise 
did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their 
gods.” 1 Kings xi, 1-8. These outrages, the more flagrant in the king who 
had himself built the temple, and to whom Jehovah had twice given solemn 
warnings mingled with his promises, called down the wrath of God. The 
judgment was pronounced upon him that his kingdom should be rent from 
him and given to his servant, one tribe being reserved to his son for the 
sake of David. 1 Kings xi, 9-13. (13) Enemies. Solomon had already 

some formidable enemies. One of these was Hadad, prince of Edom, who 
had escaped to Egypt from the massacre of Joab, where he married the 
sister-in-law of Pharaoh. He returned to his own country, and began a 
harassing war against Solomon. A still more formidable enemy was Rezon, 
who founded the kingdom of Damascus, and was an enemy of Solomon 
through all hi3 reign. But Jeroboam was an internal enemy of a still more 
dangerous character. He was a young man of talent and energy, who, 
having been appointed by Solomon superintendent of the engineering works 
projected around Jerusalem, had risen into public notice. He was informed 
by Ahijah the prophet that God intended to give him the kingdom, saving 
the remnant promised to Solomon’s son. Hearing of this, Solomon sought 
the life of Jeroboam ; but the latter fled to Egypt, and remained there till 
the death of Solomon. 1 Kings xi, 14-40. (14) End. Amid such begin- 

nings of impending trouble Solomon approached the end of his course. He 
died after a reign of forty years, and was buried in the royal sepulcher in 
the city of David. B. C. about 975. Notwithstanding his immense harem 
we only read of his having one son, Rehoboam. 1 Kings xi, 41-43. It 
may be that the historian mentions only Rehoboam because he was succes- 
sor to the throne. 

3. Character. The character of Solomon, as drawn in the Scriptures, is 
many-sided. The simple, unpretending child ; the darling of Jehovah, 
(2 Sam. xii, 24, 25;) the chosen king; the seeker. after wisdom, choosing 
her above all other things; the wise and sagacious judge; the powerful 
ruler and glorious sovereign ; the man of science, and able to solve difficult 
problems, surpassing in many ways all the kings of the nations round 
about him ; his navies traversing many a sea, and kings and princes from 
afar bringing and laying at his feet their gifts. Ho was full of sublime 
devotion, equally full of practical sagacity ; the extemporizer of the loftiest 
litany in existence, withal the author of the pungent Proverbs ; able to mount 
up on rapture’s ethereal pinion to the region of the seraphim, but keenly 
alive to all the details of business, and shrewd in all human intercourse ; 
zealous in collecting gold, yet/ lavish in expending it; sumptuous in his 
tastes, and splendid in costume ; the patriot intense, the Israelite indeed.” — 
Hamilton, The Royal Preacher. Enervated by luxury, defiled by licentious- 
ness, he was an easy prey to idolatry ; he neglected to fear God and keep 
liis commandments. 


508 


SOPATER — SOTAI. 


Difficulties.— 1 Kings ii, 28-34. “ A strict regard for the honor of Jehovah 
and for his statutes, laws, judgments, and testimonies, required that the crimes 
of the bloody Joab should receive their merited penalty : but David seems to have 
felt that his own bands were too full of blood, and his own heart had been too 
deeply stained with blood-guiltiness,” (Psa. li, 14,) to allow him to be the instru- 
ment of Joab’s punishment. Not for sins committed against David as a father, 
but for sins committed against .the law and majesty of God, does David advise 
Solomon, the king, as the keeper of God’s law and the guardian of God’s honor, 
to punish the guilty offender. (Whedon.) Chap. iii. 7-9. The wisdom that Solo- 
mon asked and obtained was not so much of the heart as the head. It was wisdom 
not for himself personally, but for his office, such as would qualify him for the ad- 
ministration of justice, the government of the kingdom, and for the attainment of 
general scientific knowledge. (Jamieson and F., Commentary.) Chap, iv, 29-34. 
High powers of mind, great capacity for receiving, as well as aptitude for commu- 
nicating, knowledge. Of his many proverbs and songs we have only a small por- 
tion remaining. He is generally considered as the author of the three canonical 
books, Proverbs, Song of Solomon, and Ecclesiastes. Chap, x, 1. The country of 
the queen of Sheba was, probably, “ the region in Southern Arabia originally set- 
tled by Sheba, the son of Joktan, (Gen. x, 28,) and comprising what is now known 
as Yemen, or Arabia-Felix.”— Whedon, Commentary. In this opinion concur 
Jamieson and F., Commentary , and Whitney, Hand-Book of Bible Geography. 

SO'PATER, (Gr. huTrarpoc, saviour of his father,) a disciple of Beroea, 
who accompanied Paul from Greece into Asia on his return from his third 
missionary journey. Acts xx, 4. A. D. 60, (55.) In the Codex Sinailicus , 
and several other MSS., his father’s name is given as Pyrrhus. It is a 
question whether or not he is the same with Sosipater, (q. v.) 

SOPHE'RETH, (Heb. same, rPSD, writing.) “ The children of Sophe- 

reth ” were a family who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel among 
the descendants of Solomon’s servants. Ezra ii, 55; Neh. vii, 57. B. C. 
before 536. 

SOSIP'ATER, (Gr. 2 uainarpoc, saver of his father ,) a kinsman of Paul, 
mentioned in the salutations of the Epistle to the Romans (chap, xvi, 21) as 
being with the apostle. A. D. 60, (54.) He is perhaps the same with Sopater. 

SOS'THENES, (Gr. #m/c, perhaps saver of his nation.) 

1. The ruler of the synagogue at Corinth, who was beaten by the Greeks 
in the presence of Gallio when the latter refused to entertain the charge 
made to him against Paul. Acts xviii, 17. Some have thought that he was 
a Christian, and was maltreated thus by his own countrymen because he 
was known as a special friend of Paul. A better view is that Sosthenes 
was one of the bigoted Jews; and that “the crowd” were Greeks who, 
taking advantage of the indifference of Gallio, and ever ready to show their 
contempt of the Jews, turned their indignation against Sosthenes. In this 
case he must have been the successor of Crispus. Yer. 8. 

2. Paul wrote the First Epistle to the Corinthians jointly in his own name 
and that of a certain Sosthenes whom he terms “the brother.” 1 Cor. i, 1. 
Some have held that he was identical with the Sosthenes mentioned in the 
Acts. If this be so, lie must have been converted at a later period, and have 
been at Ephesus and not at Corinth, when Paul wrote to the Corinthians. 
The name was a common one, and but little stress can be laid on that co- 
incidence. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

SO'TAI, (Heb. Sotay ', ’’DID, probably changeful.) The children ” of 

Sotai were a family of the descendants of Solomon’s servants who returned 
with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 55 ; Neh. vii, 57. B. C. before 536. 


STAC H Y S — ST EPHEN. 


509 


STA'CHYS, (Gr. Sra^vf, an ear,) a Christian at Rome to whom Paul 
sent salutations, calling him “ my beloved.” Rom. xvi, 9. A. D. 60, (55.) 
According to an old tradition recorded by Niceporus Callistus he was 
bishop of Byzantium. He is said by Hippolytus and Dorotheus to have been 
one of the seventy disciples. 

STEPH'ANAS, (Gr. Iretpavug, crowned ,) a Corinthian disciple whose 
household Paul baptized, -(1 Cor. i, 16,) being the first converted to Chris- 
tianity in Achaia. Chap, xvi, 15. 

STE'PHEN. 1. Name. (Gr. Srebavof, a crown.) 

2. Personal History. Stephen, as his Greek name seems to indicate, 
was probably of Hellenistic origin. Where or wheii born, however, we 
have no means of ascertaining. (1) As Deacon. The first authentic account 
we have of Stephen is in Acts vi, 5. In the distribution of the common 
fund that was intrusted to the apostles for the support of the poorer breth- 
ren, the Hellenists complained that a partiality was shown to the natives 
of Palestine, and their widows were neglected. The apostles, hearing of the 
complaint, took measures immediately to remove the cause of it. Unwilling 
themselves to be taken from the work of the ministry, they advised the 
Church to select seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and 
wisdom, for this business. Yer. 3. The brethren proceeded immediately 
to select the prescribed number, among whom Stephen is first mentioned. 
The newly-elected deacons were brought to the apostles, who ordained them 
to their work. Yer. 6. From the first Stephen occupied a prominent posi- 
tion. He is described as “ a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost,” 
(ver. 5,) “full of faith and power,” (ver. 8,) and of irresistible “ wisdom and 
spirit.” Yer. 10. He attracted attention by the “great wonders and mira- 
cles ” which he did among the people. (2) His Teaching. From his for- 
eign descent and education he was naturally led to address himself to the 
Hellenistic Jews. In these disputations he probably took more advanced 
grounds than the apostles had respecting the discontinuance and abrogation 
of the Mosaic system, contending that already it had, as a ritual system, 
lost all force and binding obligation by its complete fulfillment in Christ. 
(Kitto, Illustrations.) (3) Arrest. Unable to withstand his reasoning, they 
caused his arrest, appearing against him before the Sanhedrin with false 
witnesses. The charge against him was blasphemy, in speaking “ against 
this holy place and the law.” Ver. 13. Stephen doubtless saw that he was 
to be the victim of the blind and malignant spirit which had been exhibited 
by the Jews in every period of their history. Yet he stood serene, collected, 
and undismayed. “ And all that sat in the council . . . saw his face as it 
had been the face of an angel,” Yer. 15. From which we may not unrea- 
sonably conclude “that it pleased God to manifest his approbation of his 
servant by investing his countenance with a supernatural and angelic 
brightness, such as that with which the face of Moses shone when he had 
been speaking with the Lord.” — Kitto. (4) His Defense. The high-priest 
that presided asked the judicial question, “Are these things so?” To this 
Stephen replied in a speech which has every appearance of being faithfully 
reported. He began with the call of Abraham, and traveled historically in 
his argument through all the stages of their national existence — evidently 
designing to prove that the presence and favor of God had not been con- 
fined to the holy land or the temple of Jerusalem. He also showed that 


olO 


SUAH — SYNTYCHE. 


there was a tendency from the earliest times toward the same ungrateful 
and narrow spirit that had appeared in this last stage of their political ex- 
istence. He then suddenly broke away from liis narrative, and denounced 
them as “ stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears,” and as ‘-always 
resisting the Holy Ghost.” The effect upon his hearers was terrible ; 
“ they were cut to the heart, and gnashed on him with their teeth.” On the 
other hand Stephen, filled with the Holy Ghost, was granted a vision of the 
glory of God, and Jesus at his right hand, “ risen to meet and welcome his 
spirit as it shou'ld escape his mangled body, and to introduce him into the 
presence of his Father, and to a crown of unfading gloiy.” (5) His Mar- 
tyrdom. Enraptured, he exclaimed, “Behold I see the heavens opened, 
and the Son of man standing. on the right hand of Gcd!” The fate of 
Stephen was settled, for his judges broke into a loud yell, stopped their ears, 
ran upon him with one accord, dragged him out of the city to the place of 
execution. Saul was present and consented to his death. In striking con- 
trast to the fearful rage of his enemies was the spirit shown by Stephen. 
First offering a petition for himself, he then prays, “ Lay not this sin to 
their charge,” and, in the beautiful language of Scripture, “ fell asleep .” 
Acts vii. “ Devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great 
lamentation over him.” Chap, viii, 2. A. D. 34. 

Difficulties.— (1) The trial. The trial of Stephen appears to have been irregu- 
lar, and the judicial act was not completed. There are, indeed, the witnesses, and 
part of the prisoner’s defense ; and here the legal action stops. The high-priest 
does not, as in our Lord’s trial, ask the opinion of the council, and then deliver 
sentence in accordance with their views. The whole proceedings broke up with 
a tumult at what they deemed the blasphemy of Stephen. (Kitto, Meditations.) 
(2) Saul consenting. The witnesses against Stephen acted as his executioners, 
.(Deut. xvii, 7 ; John viii, 7,) and laid their outer garments for safety at the feet 
of Saul. One of the prominent leaders in the transaction was deputed by custom 
to signify his assent to the act by taking the clothes into his custody. (Smith, Cy- 
clopaedia.) 

SU'AH, (Heb. Su'ach , rTlD, sweeping , [Gesenius,] or riches, [Fiirst,]) the 

first-mentioned of eleven sons or descendants of Zopliah, one of the 
“heads” of the house of Asher. 1 Chron. vii, 36. B. C. before 1400. 

SUSANINA, (Gr. Sovadvva, from the Heb. Shoshannah, a lily,) 

\ 

one of the women who followed our Lord and “ ministered unto him of 
their substance.” Luke viii, 3. A. D. 28. No particulars of her life are 
known. The name, apparently of common occurrence, is of the same origin 
and meaning as Sheshan. 1 Chron. ii, 31, 34, 35. The Susanna who figures 
prominently in the symbolism of the ancient Church is the heroine of the 
apocryphal story of the judgment of Daniel. 

SU'SI, (Heb. Susi', ^D^D) a horseman ,) the father of Gaddi, who was the 

representative of the tribe of Manasseh in the first commission sent by Mo- 
ses to “ spy out the land” of Canaan. Num. xiii, 11. B. C. before 1490. 

SYN'TYCHE, (Gr. Ivvtvx y, with fate.) a Christian woman of Philippi, 
who seems to have been at variance with another female member named 
Euodias, or Euodia. Phil, iv, 2, 3. A. D. 57. Paul pathetically entreats 
them to live in mutual harmony, and mentions their names with a respect 
bordering on fondness, as fellow-laborers in the Gospel, whose names were 
written in the book of life. It has been surmised that they were deacon- 


TABBAOTH — TABRIMON. 511 

esses, in which case their good fellowship would be of almost vital impor- 
tance to the infant Church. 

TAB'BAOTH, (Heb. Tabbaoth f, rings, or spots,) one of the Ne- 

thinim whose descendants returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Ezra 
ii, 43 ; Neh. vii, 46. B. C. before 536. 

TAB'EAL, (Isa. vii, 6.) See Tabeel. 

TAB'EEL, (Heb. Tabeel', fjfcOD, God is good.) 

.. . |T 

1. The father of the man whom Rezin, king of Syria, and Pekah, kiDg of 
Israel, proposed to seat on the throne of Judah instead of Ahaz. Isa. vii, 6. 
B. C. before 738. In our Authorized Version the name is spelled Tabeal. 
It has been conjectured that “ the son of Tabeal ” was identical with Zichri, 
the “ mighty man of Ephraim ” whose sanguinary deeds are recorded in 
2 Chron. xxviii, 7, and who may have thus promoted the war in hope of 
receiving the crown. Because of the Aramaic form of the name, however, 
others have supposed him to have been a Syrian warrior, who, in the event 
of success, might hold the Judaic kingdom in fealty to Roein, as suzerain. 
The Targum of Jonathan turns the name into a mere appellative, and makes 
the passage read : “ We will make king in the midst of it whoso seems 
good to us.” 

2. A Persian official in Samaria who, together with Bishlam, Mithredath, 
and others, wrote to King Artaxerxes a letter of bitter hostility to the re- 
builders of Jerusalem. Ezra iv, 7. B. C. 522. The letter was written in 
the “ Syrian (or Aramaean) tongue,” and it has been argued thence, as well 
as from the form of his name, that he and his companions were Aramaeans. 

TABTTHA, (G-r. Taftv&d, Aram. Tabitha XTVltp, answering to the Heb. 
i"P3¥, Tsebiydh, a female gazelle — an idiom for beauty,) a benevolent Christian 

widow of Joppa whom Peter restored to life. Acts ix, 36-42. A. D. 32. 
She was probably a Hellenistic Jewess, known to the Greeks by the name 
Dorcas, (A opicug,) and to the Hebrews lay the Syriac equivalent. It is not 
certain, however, that Tabitha bore both names ; Luke may have translated 
the name for the benefit of his Gentile readers, and used its definition there- 
after for their convenience. The Greeks used Dorcas, that is, “female 
gazelle,” as a term of endearment for their women. Soon after Peter had 
miraculously cured the palsied iEneas in Lydda the Church at Joppa was 
bereaved by the death of Tabitha. They at once sent for the apostle, 
whether merely to receive his Christian consolation or in the hope that he 
could restore their friend to life, does not appear. A touching picture is 
given of the widows who stood “ weeping, and showing the coats and gar- 
ments which Dorcas had made.” Peter “ put them all forth,” prayed, and 
commanded the lifeless woman to arise. She opened her eyes, arose, and 
by the apostle was presented to her friends. The facts, which became 
widely known, produced a profound impression in Joppa, and occasioned 
many conversions. Acts ix, 42. 

TAB'RIMON, (Heb. Tabrimmon', jETOD, good is Rimmon ,) the father 
of the first Benhadad, who ruled Syria during the reign of Asa. 1 Kings 


512 


TAHAN — TALMON. 


xv, 18. B. C. ante 940. The name is analogous in form to Tobiel. See 
Rimmon. 

TA'HAN, (Heb. Tach'an, fnfl, camp , or graciousness.) 

1. The head of one of the families of the tribe of Ephraim at the end of 
the exode. Num. xxvi, 35. B. C. ante 1451. 

2. Apparently the son of Telah and the father of Laadan, in the genealogy 
of Ephraim. 1 Chron. vii, 25. B. C. post 1451. 

TA'HATH, (Heb. Tachath', jqnri, station.) 

1. A Kohathite Levite, son of Assir and father of Uriel, or Zephaniah, 
in the ancestry of Samuel and Heman. 1 Chron. vi, 24, 37. 

2. An Ephraimite, son of Bered and father of Eladah. 1 Chron. vii, 20. 
B. C. post 1451. Perhaps identical with Tahan, No. 1. 

3. Apparently the grandson of the foregoing, being registered as son of 
Eladah and father of Zabad. 1 Chron. vii, 20. B. C. post 1451. 

TAH'PENES, (Heb. Tachpeneys' , D'OEPIfi, an Egyptian term of unknown 

meaning,) wife of the Pharaoh who received Hadad, the Edomite prince, 
when he fled from- his father’s desolated capital. 1 Kings xi, 18-20. B. C. 
about 984. The sister of Tahpenes was given to Hadad in marriage, and 
their son Genubath was “ weaned ” by the queen herself, and brought up 
“in Pharaoh’s household among the sons of Pharaoh.” At that time 
Egypt was divided into perhaps three monarchies. Psusennes, of the 
Tanitic line, has been conjectured to have been the husband of this Tah- 
peues, brother-in-law of Hadad, and father-in-law of Solomon ; but there 
has been no name found among those of that period bearing any resem- 
blance to Tahpenes. 

TAH'REA, (Heb. Tachre'a, jnnn, cunning , or flight ,) a great-grandson 

of Jonathan, and one of the four sons of Micah, mentioned in 1 Chron. ix, 41. 
B. C. post 1037. In the parallel passage, 1 Chron. viii, 35, he is called 
Tarea, (q. v.) 

TAI/MAI, (Heb. Talmay', furrowed , or bold.) 

1. One of the gigantic sons of Anak who dwelt in Hebron. Num. xiii, 22. 
They were expelled from their stronghold by Caleb, (Josh, xv, 14,) and 
killed by the men of Judah. Judg. i, 10. B. C. about 1425. There is a tall 
race, of light complexion, figured on the Egyptian monuments, and called in 
the hieroglyphic inscriptions Tanmahu , who have been supposed to repre- 
sent the descendants of this man. “ The interchange of the liquid l for n, 
so constant in all languages,” makes plausible the conjecture that this is 
the Egyptian rendering of Talmai. 

2. The son of Ammihud and king of Gesliur, a small kingdom in the 
north-east of Bashan. 2 Sam. iii, 3 ; xiii, 37 ; 1 Chron. iii, 2. His daughter 
Maacah was one of David’s wives, and mother of Absalom. B. C. 1053. 

TAL/MON, (Heb. Talmon oppressor,) the head of a family of 

door-keepers in the temple, “the porters for the camps of the sons of 
Levi.” 1 Chron. ix, 17 ; Neh. xi, 19. B. C. 1013. Some of his descendants 
returned with Zerubbabel, (Ezra ii, 42 ; Nell, vii, 45,) and were employed in 
their hereditary office in the days of Nehemiah and Ezra. Neh. xii, 25. 


TAMAH — TAMAR. 


513 


TA'MAH, (Heb. Te'mach , non, or Ta'mach , non, laughter.) The chil- 
dren of Tamah were among the Nethinim who returned with Zerubbabel. 
Nell, vii, 55. B. C. before 536. In Ezra (ii, 53) the name is Anglicized 
Thamah. 

TA'MAR, (Heb. Tamar', ")£>n, a palm-tree, sometimes Thamar.') 

1. The wife of Er, the son of Judah, and, after his death, of his brother 
Onan. The sudden death of his two sons so soon after their marriage with 
Tamar made Judah hesitate to give her the third also, thinking, very likely, 
according to a superstition, (Tobit ii, 7, sq.,) that either she herself, or mar- 
riage with her, had been the cause of their deaths. He therefore sent her 
to her father, with the promise that he would give her his youngest son as 
soon as he was grown up, though he never intended to do so. Desirous of 
retaining the family inheritance and name through children, Tamar waited 
until satisfied that Shelah was not to be given to her as a husband, and 
then determined to procure children from Judah himself, who had become a 
widower. She ensnared him by pretending to be one of those women who 
were consecrated to the impure rites of Canaauitisli worship. He gave her 
pledges, which she produced some three months after, when she was ac- 
cused of unchastity and sentenced to death by Judah. He acknowledged 
his own guilt, and the provocation he had furnished her to do wrong. 
Tamar’s life was spared, and she became the mother of the twins Pharez 
and Zarah. Gen. xxxviii, 6-30. B. C. about 1727. 

2. A daughter of David by Maachah, as is evident from her being the 
full sister of Absalom. 2 Sam. xiri, 1 ; comp, iii, 3. Amnou, the eldest son 
of David by Ahinoam, (chap, iii, 2,) conceived a passion for Tamar because 
of her beauty, aud, being unable to gratify his desire, he quite pined away. 
Jonadab noticed his condition, and, learning its cause, suggested to him the 
means of accomplishing his wicked purpose. He feigned illness, and begged 
his father, who visited him, to allow his sister to come to his house and pre- 
pare food for which he had a fancy. She came and prepared some cakes, 
probably in an outer room ; but Amnon refused to eat, and ordering all his 
attendants to retire, he called her into his chamber and there accomplished 
his infamous purpose. Amnon’s love gave way to brutal hatred, aud he 
ordered her to leave his apartments. Tamar remonstrated, telling him that 
this wrong would be greater than that already done her. The meaning of 
this seems to be that by being thus sent away it would inevitably be sup- 
posed that she had been guilty of some shameful conduct herself. Her 
brother would not listen to her, but ordered one of the attendants to put her 
out and bolt the door after her. Notwithstanding she wore the dress of a 
princess, a garment with sleeves, (Authorized Version, “ of divers colors,”) 
Amnon’s servant treated her as a common woman, and turned her out of 
the house. Then Tamar put ashes upon her head, rent her royal dress, 
laid her hand upon her head, and ran crying through the streets. She 
shortly encountered Absalom, who took her to his house, where she re- 
mained in a state of widowhood. David faded to punish the crime of his 
first-born, but she was avenged two years afterward by Absalom. 2 Sam. 
xiii, 1-32; 1 Chron. iii, 9. B. C. about 1032. 

3. Daughter of Absalom. 2 Sam. xiv, 27. She ultimately, by her mar- 
riage with Uriel of Gibeah, became the mother of Maachah, the future 
queen of Judah, or wife of Abijah. 1 Kings xv, 2. B. C. 1027. 


514 


TANHUMETR— TEHINRAR. 


TAN'HUMETH, or TANHU'METH, (Heb. Tanchu'meth, 

consolation ,) the father of Seraiah (q. v.) in the time of G-edaliah. 2 Kings 
xxv. 23. B. C. 588. In this passage he appears as a Netophathite by the 
clerical omission of another name, as is evident from the parallel passage. 
Jer. xl, 8. 

TA'PHATH, (Heb. Taphath' , HDD, ornament ,) the daughter of Solomon 

— T 

who married Ben-Abinadab, who was commissary for the region of Dor. 

1 Kings iv, 11. B. C. 1014. 

TAP'FUAH, (Heb. Tappu'ach, rnsri, an apple,) the second-named of the 

four sons of Hebron, of the lineage of Caleb. 1 Chron. ii, 43. B. C. before 
1451. 

TA'REAj or TARE 'A, (Heb. Tare'a, yiND,) son of Micah, in the line- 

“ ” J - 

age of King Saul, (1 Chron. viii, 35 ;) elsewhere (chap, ix, 41) called Tahrea, 
(q. v.) 

TAR'SHISH, (Heb. Tarshish ', subdued.) 

1. Second son of Javan and grandson of Japheth. Glen, x, 4 ; 1 Chron. 
i. 7. B. C. after 1098. 

2. The sixth-named of the seven sons of Bilhan, the grandson of Benja- 
min. 1 Chron. vii, 10; Authorized Version, “ Tharshish.” B. C. after 1706. 

3. One of the seven princes of Persia in the time of King Ahasuerus. 
Esth. i, 14. B. C. about 519 

TAR'TAN, (Heb. Tartan ', jrnp],) the name, apparently, of a general sent 

by Sennacherib, king of Assyria, to reduce the Philistine city of Ashdod. 

2 Kings xviii, 17 ; Isa. xx, 1. Recent discoveries make it probable that in 
Tartan, as in Rabsaris and Rabshakeh, we have not a proper name at all, 
but a title or official designation, like Pharaoh or Surena. The Assyrian 
Tartan is a general, or commander-in-chief. 

TAT'NAI, (Heb. Tatnay perhaps gift,) a Persian governor of Sa- 
maria when Zerubbabel began to rebuild Jerusalem. He seems to have been 
appealed to by the Samaritans to oppose that undertaking, and, accompanied 
by another high official, Shetliar-boznai, went to Jerusalem. They sent a 
fair and temperate report of what they saw and heard to the supreme gov- 
ernment, suggesting that search be instituted to learn whether the building 
was going on in accordance with a royal decree. Ezra v, 3. 6. The state- 
ment of the Jews being verified by the discovery of the original decree of 
Cyrus, Tatnai and his colleagues applied themselves with vigor to the exe- 
cution of the royal commands. Chap, vi, 6, 13. B. C. 536-519. 

TE'BAH, (Ileb. Te'bach, rDD, slaughter,) the first-named of the four sons 
of Nahor by his concubine Reumah. Gen. xxii, 24. B. C. after 1920. 
TEBALI'AH, (Heb. Tebalya'hu, ^T^Zip, purified, or protected,) the third- 

named of the sons of Hosah, “of the children of Merari.” 1 Chron. xxvi. 11. 
B. C. 1015. 

TEHIN'NAH, (Heb. Techinndh', H-inn, supplication ,) a name occurring 

t • ; 

in the genealogy of the men of Rechah, of the tribe of Judah. He is men- 


TEL AH — TH ADD JE U S. 515 

tioned as a son of Eshton and founder of the city of Nahash. 1 Chron. 
iv, 12. B. C. perhaps about 1083, 

TE'LAH, (Heb. Te'lach, breach , or vigor,) son of Rephah (or Re- 

sheph) and father of Tahan, in the lineage between Ephraim and Joshua. 
1 Chron. vii, 25. B. C. before 1491. 

TE'LEM, (Heb. same, oppression ,) one of the temple porters who 

put away his Gentile wife. Ezra x, 24. B. C. 456. 

TE'MA, (Heb. Teyma ', desert , or the south,) the ninth son of Ish- 

mael, (Gen. xxv, 15 ; 1 Chron. i, 30,) whence the tribe called after him, men- 
tioned in Job vi, 19 ; Jer. xxv, 23 ; and also the land occupied by this tribe. 
Isa. xxi, 14. The name is identified satisfactorily with Teyma, a small 
town on the confines of Syria, between it and Wadi-i-Kura, on the road of 
the Damascus pilgrim-caravan. B. C. about 1800. 

TE'MAN, (Heb. Teyman', pi3, right, or south,) the eldest son of Eliphaz, 

the son of Esau. Gen. xxxvi, 11 ; 1 Chron. i, 36. He was a duke (or prince) 
of the Edomites, (vers. 15, 42; 1 Chron. i, 36, 53,) and gave his name to 
the region in which the tribe he founded settled. Gen. xxxvi, 34. B. C. 
about 1715. 

TEM'ENI, TE'MENI, or TEME'NI, (Heb. Teymeni', fortu- 

nate,) the third son of Ashur, “ father ” (founder) of Tekoa, by his wife 
Naarah. 1 Chron. iv, 6. B. C. about 1451. 

TE'RAH, (Heb. Te'rach, mFI, station ,) the son of Nahor born in Ur of 

the Chaldees ; the father of Abram, Nahor, and Haran, and through them 
the ancestor of the great families of the Israelites, Ishmaelites, Midianites, 
Moabites, and Ammonites. Gen. xi, 24-32. We learn from the Scripture 
that Terah was an idolater, (Josh, xxiv, 2,) that he took part in the family 
migration toward Canaan, and that he died in Haran at the age of 205 years. 
B. C. 2126-1921. 

TE'RESH, (Heb. same, Khri, severe ,) one of the two eunuchs whose 

plot to assassinate Ahasuerus was discovered by Mordecai. Esth. ii, 21; 
vi, 2. He was hanged. B. C. about 515. 

TER'TIUS, (from Latin tertius, third,) probably a Roman, was the aman- 
uensis of Paul in writing the Epistle to the Romans. Rom. xvi, 22. Some 
have proposed without reason to identify him with Silas. Nothing certain 
is known of him. A. D. 60, (55.) 

TERTUI/LUS, (Gr. Tf pruAAof, diminutive form of Tertius,) “ a certaifi 
orator” retained by the high-priest and Sanhedrin to accuse the apostle Paul 
at Cesarea before the procurator, Felix. Acts xxiv, 1, 2. A. D. 60, (55.) 

THADD-ZE'US, (Gr. Qatidaloq,) a name in Mark’s catalogue of the twelve 
apostles (Mark iii, 18) in the great majority of MSS. In Matthew's cata- 
logue (Matt, x, 3) Lebbaeus is probably the original reading. From a com- 
parison with the catalogue of Luke (Luke vi, 16; Acts i, 13) it seems 
scarcely possible to doubt that the three names of Judas, Lebbaeus, tfnd 
Thaddaeus were borne by one and the same person. 


516 


THAHASH — THOMAS. 


THA'HASH, (Heb. Tach'ash, &*>nn, badger,) the third son of Nahor by 
his concubine Reumah. Gen. xxii, 24. B. C. after 1920. 

THA'MAH, (Ezra ii, 53)= Tam ah, (q. v.) 

THA'MAR, (Matt, i, 3 )=Tamar, (q. v.) 

THA'RA, (Lukeiii, 34)=Terah, (q. v.) 

THAR'SHISH, a less correct form for Tar'shish, No. 2. 

THEOPHTLUS, (Gr. Qeo<pi?ioc, friend of God,) the person to whom 
Luke inscribes his gospel and the Acts of the Apostles. Luke i, 3; Acts 
i, 1. We meet with a considerable number and variety of theories concern- 
ing him. The traditional connection of Luke with Antioch has disposed 
some to look upon Antioch as the abode of Tlieophilus, and possibly as the 
seat of his government. “ We may safely reject the Patristic notion that 
Theophilus was either a fictitious person or a mere personification of Chris- 
tian love. The epithet Kpunare (‘most excellent’) is a sufficient evidence 
of his historical existence. It does not, indeed, prove that he was a gov- 
ernor, but it makes it most probable that he was a person of high rank. 
All that can be conjectured with any degr ee of safety concerning him comes 
to this, that he was a Gentile of rank and consideration who came under 
the influence of Luke, or under that of Paul, at Rome, and was converted 
to the Christian faith.” — Smith, Dictionary, s. v. 

THEU'DAS, (perhaps contraction of Gr. Oeodorog, or 0 eodupoe, God- 
given,') an insurgent mentioned by Gamaliel in his speech before the Sanhe- 
drin, at the time of the arraignment of the apostles. Acts v, 35-39. He 
seems to have been a religious impostor, and to have had about 400 ad- 
herents, who were all slain or scattered. 

THOM' AS, (Gr. Oupuc, from Heb. Torrid, NttKn, twin,) also called Didy- 

mus, its Greek equivalent. 1. Name and Family. Out of this name has 
grown the tradition that he had a twin sister, Lydia, or that he was a twin 
brother of our Lord ; which last, again, would confirm his identification 
with Judas. (Compare Matt, xiii, 55.) He is said to have been born in An- 
tioch, but is also considered by some a native of Galilee, like most of the 
other apostles. John xxi, 2. 

2. Personal History. In the first three gospels we have an account 
of his call to the apostleship. Matt, x, 3 ; Mark iii, 18 ; Luke vi, 15. The 
rest that we know of him is derived from the Gospel of John. When Jesus 
declared his intention of going to Bethany, Lazarus being dead, Thomas, 
apprehensive of danger, said to the other disciples, “ Let us also go, that we 
may die with him.” John xi, 16. At the last supper, when Jesus was 
speaking of his departure, Thomas said unto him, “Lord, we know not 
whither thou goest; and how can we know the way ? ” Chap, xiv, 5. When 
Jesus appeared to the first assembly after his resurrection, Thomas for some 
reason was absent. The others told him, “We have seen the Lord.” 
Thomas broke forth into an exclamation which conveys to us at once the 
vehemence of his doubt, and the vivid picture that his mind retained of his 
Master’s form as he had last seen him lifeless on the cross. Chap, xx, 25. And 
after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them : 
tliSn came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, 
Peace be unto you.” Turning to Thomas, he uttered the words which con- 


TIBERIUS — TIGLATH-PILESER. 


517 


vey as strongly the sense of condemnation and tender reproof as those of 
Thomas had shown the sense of hesitation and doubt : “ Then saith he to 
Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands ; and reach hither 
thy hand, and thrust it into my side ; and be not faithless, but believing.” 
The effect upon Thomas is immediate. Doubt is removed, and faith asserts 
itself strongly. The words in which he expresses his belief contain a high 
assertion of his Master’s divine nature: “And Thomas answered and said 
unto him, My Lord and my God.” The answer of our Lord sums up the 
moral of the whole narrative : “ Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou 
hast believed : blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” 
Chap, xx, 26-29. In the New Testament we hear of Thomas only twice 
again, once on the Sea of Galilee, with six other disciples, (chap, xxi, 2,) 
and again in the assembly of the apostles after the ascension. Acts i, 13. 
The earlier traditions, as believed in the fourth century, represent him as 
preaching in Parthia, or Persia, and as finally buried in Edessa. The later 
traditions carry him farther east. His martyrdom is said to have been 
occasioned by a lance. (Smith.) 

3. Character. “ His character is that of a man slow to believe, subject 
to despondency, seeing all the difficulties of a case, viewing things on the 
darker side, and yet full of ardent love for his Master.” 

TIBE'RXUS, (in full, Tiberius Claudius Nero Caesar,) the second Roman 
emperor, successor of Augustus, who began to reign A. D. 14, and reigned 
until A. D. 37. He was the son of Tiberius Claudius Nero and Livia, and 
hence a stepson of Augustus. He was born at Rome on the 16th of No- 
vember, B. C. 45. He became emperor in his fifty-fifth year, after having 
distinguished himself as a commander in various wars, and having evinced 
talents of a high order as an orator and an administrator of civil affairs. 
He even gained the reputation of possessing the sterner virtues of the Ro- 
man character, and was regarded as entirely worthy of the imperial honors 
to which his birth and supposed personal merits at length opened the way. 
Yet, on being raised to the supreme power, he suddenly became, or sh'owed 
himself to be, a very different man. His subsequent life was one of inactiv- 
ity, sloth, and self-indulgence. He was despotic in his government, cruel 
and vindictive in his disposition. Tiberius died at the age of seventy-eight, 
after a reign of twenty-three years. In Luke iii, 1, he is termed Tiberius 
Caisar. John the Baptist, it is there said, began his ministry in the fifteenth 
year of his reign, an important chronological statement, helping to deter- 
mine the year of Christ’s birth and entrance on his public life. Smith, Dic- 
tionary , s. v. 

TIB'NI, Heb. Tibni', ijpn, perhaps intelligent ,) the sixth king of Israel 

and son of Ginath. After the tragic death of Zimri there was a division 
among the people, “half followed Tibni . . . and half followed Omri.” 
After a struggle lasting four years Omri’s party prevailed, and, according to 
the brief account of the historian, “ Tibni died, and Omri reigned.” 1 Kings 
xvi, 21, 22. B. C. 929-925. 

TIG'Ii ATH-PILE ' SE R, (Heb. Tiglath' Pile'ser, *1Dn6q r&SPl, signifi- 
cation doubtful. In 1 Chron. v, 6, 26 ; 2 Chron. xxviii, 20, it is given less cor- 
rectly as “ Tilgath-pilneser, ”) the king of Assyria who attacked Samaria in 
the reign of Pekah, probably because the latter had withheld his tribute. 


518 


TIGLATH-PILESER. 


He 11 took Ijon, and Abel-betli-maachah, and Janoah, and Kedesh, and Ha- 
zor, and Gilead, and Galilee, all the land of Naphtali, and carried them 
captive to Assyria.” 2 Kings xv, 29. When Rezin, king of Syria, and Pe- 



FINAL ASSAULT OF DAMASCUS. FROM THE ASSYRIAN MONUMENTS. 

kah were about to attack Jerusalem Ahaz applied to Assyria for assistance, 
and Tiglath-pileser, consenting to aid him, again appeared at the head of 
an army in these regions. He first marched, naturally, against Damascus, 
which he took, (2 Kings xvi, 9,) razing it to the ground, and killing Rezin, 
the Damascene monarch. After this, probably, he proceeded to chastise 
Pekah, whose country he entered on the north-east, where it bordered upon 
“ Syria of Damascus.” Here he overran the whole district to the east of 
Jordan, carrying into captivity “ the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half 
tribe of Manasseh.” 1 Chron. v, 26. Before returning into liis own land 
Tiglath-pileser had an interview with Ahaz at Damascus. 2 Kings xvi, 10. 



CAPTIVITY OF THE INHABITANTS. FROM THE ASSYRIAN MONUMENTS. 


This is all that Scripture tells us of Tiglath-pileser. Monumental Records. 
“ Tiglath-pileser appears to have succeeded Pul, and to have been succeeded 
by Shalmaneser ; to have been contemporary with Rezin, Pekah, and Ahaz. 


TIKVAH — TIMOTHEUS. 


519 


Prom his own inscriptions we learn that his reign lasted at least seventeen 
years ; that, besides warring in Syria and Samaria, he attacked Babylonia, 
Media, Armenia, and the independent tribes in the upper regions of Meso- 
potamia ; and, finally, that he was (probably) not a legitimate prince but a 
usurper and the founder of a dynasty. The authority of Berosus ana He- 
rodotus, combined with the monumental indications, justifies us in conclud- 
ing that the founder of the Lower Dynasty or Empire, the first monarch of 
the New Kingdom, was the Tiglath-pileser of Scripture. He reigned cer- 
tainly from B. 0. 747 to B. C. 730, and possibly a few years longer, being 
succeeded by Shalmeneser as early as B. C. 725. Tiglath-pileser’s wars do 
not, generally, appear to have been of much importance. The destruction 
of Damascus, the absorption of Syria, and the extension of Assyrian influ- 
ence over Judea, are the chief events of his reign. No palace or great 
building can be ascribed to this king.” — Smith, Dictionary , s. v. 

TIK'VAH, (Heb. Tikvah ', HI pH, a core?, or hope.) 

1. The son of Harlias and father of Shallum, the husband of Huldah the 
prophetess. 2 Kings xxii, 14. B. C. before 624. He is called in 2 Chron. 
xxxiv, 22, Tikvath. 

2. The father of Jahaziah, which latter was one of the rulers appointed 
by Ezra to superintend the divorcement of the Gentile wives after the cap- 
tivity. Ezra x, 15. B. 0. before 437. 

TIIFVATH, (Heb. text, Toka'hath, nnjtfn ; margin, Tokhath ', nnpjr), 

assemblage, or firmness,) the father of Shallum, (2 Chron. xxxiv, 32)= Tikvah. 
2 Kings xxii, 14. 

TII/GATH-PILNE'SER, (1 Chron. v, 6, 26; 2 Chron. xxviii, 20.) 
See Tiglath-pileser. 

TTLON, (Heb. Tilon', or Tulon', gift, or scorn,) the last-named 

of the four “ sons” of Shimon, of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 20. B. C. 
perhaps 1451. 

TIME'US, more correctly TIMiE'US, (Gr. T ipaloc,) father of the blind 
beggar cured by Christ, (Mark x, 46,) the son being thence called Bar- 
timeus, (q. y.) 

TUVTNA, (Heb. Timndf, yjftn, restraint.) 

1. A concubine of Eliphaz, son of Esau, and mother of Amalek. Gen. 
xxxvi, 12. B. C. after 1740. In 1 Chron. i, 36, she is named (by an ellip- 
sis) as a son of Eliphaz. She is probably the same as the sister of Lotan 
and daughter of Seir the Horite. Gen. xxxvi, 22 ; 1 Chron. i, 39. 

2. A duke (or sheik) of Edom. Gen: xxxvi, 40 ; 1 Chron. i, 51 ; in Au- 
thorized Version “ Timnah.” B. C. about 1496. 

TIM'NAH. See Timna, No. 2. 

TFMON, (Gr. T tfujv,) one of the seven, commonly called “ deacons,” ap- 
pointed when the Hellenistic Jews at Jerusalem made complaint of partial- 
ity. Acts vi, 5. Nothing further is known of him certainly, but tradition 
makes him bishop of Bostra, and that he there suffered martyrdom. 

TIMO'THEUS, (Gr. Tipo&eoc, honoring God,) the Greek form of the 
name of Timothy. Acts xvi, 1 ; xvii, 14, etc. 


520 


TIMOTHY. 


TIM'OTHY, (Gr. Tf/mtfeof = Timotheus,) the convert and friend of Paul. 

1. Family. Timothy was the son of one of those mixed marriages which, 
though unlaw ful, were quite frequent in the later periods of J e wish history. 
His mother was a Jewess, while his father (name unknown) was a Greek. 
Acts xvi, 1-3. 

2. History. (1) Early Life. The picture of Timothy’s early life, as 

drawn by the apostle Paul, represents a mother and grandmother, full of 
tenderness and faith, piously instructing him in the Scriptures, and training 
him to hope for the Messiah of Israel. 2 Tim. i, 5; iii, 15. Thus, though far 
removed from the larger colonies of Israelitisli families, he was brought up 
in a thoroughly Jewish atmosphere ; although he could hardly be called a 
Jewish boy, having never been admitted by circumcision withiu the pale of 
God’s ancient covenant. (2) Conversion. Timothy was probably living at 
Lystra when Paul made his first visit to that city, and appears to have been 
converted at that time. Acts xiv, 6 ; compare 2 Tim. i, 5. No mention is 
made of Timothy until the time of' Paul’s second visit, but it is safe to as- 
sume that his spiritual life and education was under the care of the elders 
of the Church. Acts xiv, 23. (3) Circumcision. Those who had the deep- 

est insight into character, and spoke with a prophetic utterance, pointed io 
T imothy (1 Tim. i, 18 ; iv, 14) as specially fit for missionary work ; and 
Paul desired to have him as a companion. The apostle circumcised him, 
(Acts xvi, 3,) and Timothy was set apart as an evangelist by the laying on 
of hands. 1 Tim. iv, 14; 2 Tim. i, 6; iv, 5. (4) Paul’s Companion. Hence- 

forth Timothy was one of Paul’s most constant companions. They and Sil- 
vanus, and probably Luke also, journeyed to Philippi, (Acts xvi, 12,) aud 
there already the young evangelist was conspicuous at once for his filial 
devotion and his zeal. Phil, ii, 22. He seems to have been left behind at 
Philippi to watch over the infant Church. He appears at Berea, where he 
remained with Silas after Paul’s departure, (Acts xvii, 14,) joining Paul at 
Athens. 1 Thess. iii, 2. From Athens he is sent back to Thessalonica, (ib.,) 
as having special gifts for comforting and teaching. He returns from 
Thessalonica, not to Athens but to Corinth, aud his name appears united 
with Paul’s in the opening words of both the letters written from that city 
to the Thessalonians. 1 Thess. i, 1 ; 2 Thess. i, 1. Of the five following years 
of his life we have no record. When we next meet with him it is as being 
sent on in advance when the apostle was contemplating the long journey 
which was to include Macedonia, Achaia, Jerusalem, and Rome. Acts 
xix, 22. It is probable that he returned by the same route and met Paul 
according to a previous arrangement, (1 Cor. xvi, 11,) and was thus with him 
when the second epistle was written to the Church of Corinth. 2 Cor. i, 1. 
He returns with the apostle to that city, and joins in messages of greeting 
to the disciples whom he had known personally at Corinth, and who had 
since found their way to Rome. Rom. xvi, 21. He forms one of the com- 
pany of friends who go with Paul to Philippi and then sail by themselves, 
waiting for his arrival by a different ship. Acts xx, 3-6. We have no men- 
tion of him until he joins the apostle, probably soon after his arrival in 
Rome. He was with Paul when the Epistles to the Pliilippians, to the 
Coiossians, and to Philemon were written. Phil, i, 1 ; ii, 19 ; Col. i, 1 ; 
Philem. 1. It follows from 1 Tim. i, 3, that he and Paul, after the re- 
lease of the latter from his imprisonment, revisited the proconsular Asia, 
that the apostle then continued his journey to Macedonia, whiie the disciple 


TIRAS — TITUS. 


521 


remained, half-reiuctantly, even weeping at the separation, (2 Tim. i, 4,) at 
Ephesus, to check, if possible, the outgrowth of heresy and licentiousness 
which had sprung up there. He had to exercise rule over presbyters, some 
older than himself, (1 Tim. iv, 12,) to render judgments, (chap, v, 1, 19, 20,) to 
regulate the almsgiving and sisterhood of the Church, (vers. 3—10,) and or- 
dain presbyters and deacons. Chap, iii, 1-13. These duties, together with 
the danger of being entangled in the disputes of rival sects, made Paul very 
anxious for the steadfastness of his disciple. Among his last recorded 
words Paul expresses his desire to see him again. 2 Tim. iv, 9, 21. It is 
uncertain whether Timothy was able to fulfill these last requests of the apos- 
tle, or that he reached Rome before his death, although some have seen in 
Heb. xiii, 23, an indication that he shared Paul’s imprisonment. Legends. 
According to an old tradition Timothy continued to act as bishop of Ephesus, 
and suffered martyrdom under Domitian or Nerva. - 

Difficulty. — “He took and circumcised Timotheus.” Acts xvi, 1, 3. Paul’s 
conduct in circumcising Timotheus has been considered inconsistent with his prin- 
ciple and conduct in refusing to circumcise Titus. Gal. ii, 3, 4. “ The two cases 
are, however, entirely different. In the latter there was an attempt to enforce 
circumcision as necessary to salvation ; in the former it was performed as a volun- 
tary act, and simply on prudential grounds.”— Haley, Discrepancies , p. 260. 

TI'RAS, (Heb. Tiros', Dm) the youngest son of Japheth, the son of 

Noah. Gen. x, 2. B. C. after 2347. Several efforts have been made to 
identify his descendants, ancient authorities generally fixing on the Thra- 
cians. 

TIRHA'KAH, or TIR'HAKAH, (Heb. Tirha'kah, ngiT)! 5 !,) the Ethio- 
pian king in the south of Egypt, and opponent of Sennacherib. 2 Kings 
x x, 9 ; Isa. xxxvii, 9. The king of Assyria was waging war against Heze- 
kiah when intelligence was received that Tirhakah was advancing against 
him. Upon hearing this he sent a second time, demanding the surrender 
of Jerusalem. B. C. probably 710. 

TIRHA'NAH, or TIR'HANAH, (Heb. Tirchanah ', MJmPI, favor,) the 

second son of Caleb the Hezronite by his concubine Maachah. 1 Cliron. 
ii, 48. 

TIR'ZAH, (Heb. Tirtsah ', n¥Vl» delight ,) the youngest of the five daugh- 
ters of Zelopehad. Num. xxvi, 33 ; xxvii, 1 ; xxxvi, 11 ; Josh, xvii, 3. B. C. 
1452. This was the case that gave rise to the Levirate provision, that in 
the event of a man dying without male children his property should pass 
to his daughters. 

TI'TUS, (a common Latin name, Grecized T*rof,) a fellow-laborer of Paul. 
We find no mention of Titus in the Acts, and must draw materials for a 
biography of him from 2 Corinthians, Galatians, and Titus, combined with 
2 Timothy. If, as seems probable, the journey mentioned in Gal. ii, 1, 3, is 
the same as that recorded in Acts xv, then Titus was closely associated 
with Paul at Antioch, and accompanied him and Barnabas thence to Jerusa- 
lem. At Troas the apostle was disappointed in not meeting Titus, (2 Cor. 
ii, 13,) who had been sent on a mission to Corinth ; but in Macedonia Titus 
joined him. Chap, vii, 6, 7, 13-15. He was sent back to Corinth, in com- 
pany with two other trustworthy Christians, bearing the second epistle to 
33 


522 


TOAH— TOBIAH. 


the Corinthians, and with the earnest request that he would attend to the 
collection being taken for the poor Christians of Judea. Chap, viii, 6. 17. 
The “ brethren” {udetyoi) who took the first epistle to Corinth (1 Cor. xvi, 
11, 12) were doubtless Titus and his companion, whoever he may have been. 
In the interval between the first and second imprisonment of Paul at Rome 
he and Titus visited Crete. Tit. i, 5. Here Titus remained and received a 
letter written to him by the apostle. From this letter we learn that Titus 
was originally converted through Paul’s instrumentality. Chap, i, 4. Next 
we learn the various particulars of the responsible duties which he had to 
discharge in Crete. He is to complete what Paul had been obliged to leave 
unfinished, (chap, i, 5,) and to organize the Church throughout the island by 
appointing presbyters in everjr city. Next he is to control and bridle 
(ver 11) the restless and mischievous Judaizers, and he is to be peremptory 
in so doing. Ver. 13. -He is to urge the duties of a decorous and Chris- 
tian life upon the women, (chap, ii, 3-5,) some of whom, possibly, had 
something of an official character. Vers. 3, 4. The notices which remain 
are more strictly personal. Titus is to look for the arrival in Crete of Ar- 
temas and Tychicus, (chap, iii, 12,) and then he is to hasten to join Paul at 
Nicopolis, where the apostle is proposing to pass the winter. Zenas and 
Apollos are in Crete, or expected there ; for Titus is to send them on their 
journey, and supply them with whatever they n^ed for it. Chap, iii, 13. 
Whether Titus did join the apostle at Nicopolis we cannot tell. But we 
naturally connect the mention of this place with what Paul wrote at no 
great interval of time afterward, (2 Tim. iv, 10 ;) for Dalmatia lay to the north 
of Nicopolis, at no great distance from it. From the form of the whole sen- 
tence it seems probable that this disciple had been with Paul in Rome dur- 
ing his final imprisonment. Tradition. The traditional connection of Titus 
with Crete is much more specific and constant, though here again we can- 
not be certain of the facts. He is said to have been permanent bishop in 
the island, and to have died there at an advanced age. The modern capital, 
Gandia , appears to claim the honor of being his burial-place. In the frag- 
ment by the lawyer Zenas, Titus is called bishop of Gortyna. Lastly, 
the name of Titus was the watchword of the Cretans when they were in- 
vaded by the Venetians. (Smith, Dictionary, s.v .) 

TO 7 AH, (Heb. To'ach , nin, lowly,) son of Zuph and father of Eliel, an- 
cestor of Samuel and Heman, (1 Chron. vi, 34;) called Tohu (1 Sam. i, 1) and 
Ndhath. 1 Chron. vi, 26. 

TOB-ADONIMAH, (Heb. Tob Adoniydh ' rwnx DID) good is Adonijah,) 

one of the Levites sent by Jehoshaphat through the cities of Judah to teach 
the law to the people. 2 Chron. xvii, 8. B. C. 912. 

TOBI'AH, )Heb. Tobiyah ', rpDiD, goodness of Jehovah.) 

1. “The children of Tobiah ” were one of the families returning with 
Zerubbabel who were unable to prove their kinship with Israel. Ezra ii, 60 ; 
Neh. vii, 62. B. C. before 536. 

2. One of the leading opponents to the rebuilding of Jerusalem under 
Nehemiah. Tobiah was formerly a slave at the Persian court, and had 
probably, as a favorite, been appointed governor of the Ammonites. Neh. ii, 
10, 19. Tobiah, though a slave (Neh. ii, 10, 19) and an Ammonite, found 


TOBIJ AH — TOIT. 


523 


means to ally himself with a priestly family, and his son Johanan married 
the daughter of Meshullam, the son of Berechiah, while he himself was 
the son-in-law of Shechaniah, the son of Aral), (Neb. vi, 18,) and these 
family relations created for him a strong faction among the Jews. He and 
Sanballat, (q. v.,) on receiving intelligence of the expected arrival of Ne- 
hemiah, were greatly exasperated, and endeavored to terrify him by asking 
whether he intended to rebel against the king. Nehemiah replied that they 
had no authority of any kind in Jerusalem, and did not allow himself to be 
intimidated. Chap, ii, 19, 20. When he heard that the building of the walls 
had been actually commenced, Tobiah, in unmingled scorn, declared, “Even 
that which they build, if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stone 
wall.” Chap, iv, 3. Then followed the league against the Jews entered into 
by Sanballat and Tobiah with the surrounding nations. Ver. 7, sq. After that 
an unsuccessful attempt was made to inveigle Nehemiah- into a conference 
in the valley of Ono. Chap, vi, 1, sq. Still later we find Tobiah carrying on 
a secret correspondence with the Jewish nobles hostile to Nehemiah. Chap. 

vi, 17-19. 

TOBI'JAH, (same as Tobiah, [q. v.]) 

1. One of the Levites sent by Jehoshaphat to teach the law in the cities 
of Judah. 2 Chron. xvii, 8. B. C. 912. 

2. One of the captivity in the time of Zechariah, in whose presence the 
prophet was commanded to take crowns of silver and gold and put them on 
the head of Joshua the high-priest. Zech. vi, 10, 14. B. C. 519. 

TOGAR'MAH, (Heb. Togarmah', HEftfri, meaning doubtful,) a son of 

Gomer and brother of Ashkenaz and Riphatli. Gen. x, 3 ; 1 Chron. i, 6. 
B. C. after 2347. The descendants of Togarmah are mentioned among the 
merchants who trafficked with Tyre in “horses, horsemen, and mules,” 
(Ezek. xxvii, 14;) and are also named with Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya, 
as followers of Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal. Chap, xxxviii, 
5, 6. 

TO'HU, (Heb. To'chu, Jjnri, lowly,) 1 Sam. i, 1 ; the same as Toah , 
(1 Chron. vi, 34,) or Nahath. Ver. 26. 

TO'I, (Heb. Toi', 'yri, error,) the king of Hamath on the Orontes in the 

time of David. When the latter defeated the Syrian king, Hadadezer, Toi’s 
powerful enemy, Toi sent his son Joram (or Hadoram) to congratulate him 
upon his victory, and to make presents of gold, silver, and brass. 2 Sam. 
viii, 9, 10. B. C. about 1040. 

TO 'LA, (Heb. Tola', a worm.) 

1. The eldest son of Issachar. Gen. xlvi, 13 ; 1 Chron. vii, 1. B. C. 1706. 
His six sons (chap, vii, 2) became progenitors of the Tolaites, (Num. 
xxvi, 23,) which numbered in David’s time 22,600 fighting men. 1 Chron. 

vii, 2. 

2. Judge of Israel. He was the son of Puali, of the tribe of Issachar. 
He succeeded Abimelech in the judgeship, and ruled Israel twenty-three 
years in Shamir, Mount Ephraim, where he died and was buried. Judg. x, 
1,2. B. C. 1206-1183. 

TOU, (Heb. same, tyfl,) (1 Chron. xviii, 9 f 10)=Toi, (q. v.) 


524 


TROPHIMUS — UCAL. 


TROP'HIMUS, (Gt. Tp6(j>ifioc, nutritious ,) a companion of the apostle 
Paul. He was a native of Ephesus in Asia Minor, and, together with Tych- 
icus, accompanied Paul in his third missionary journey, when returning from 
Macedonia toward Syria. Acts xx, 4. Trophimus went to Jerusalem, where 
he was the innocent cause of the tumult in which the apostle was appre- 
hended. Acts xxi, 27-29. In 2 Tim. iv, 20, Paul writes that he had left 
Trophimus in ill health at Miletus. Of further details we are ignorant. 

TRYPHE'NA, (Gr. T pvQaiva, luxurious ,) a Christian woman of Rome to 
whom, in connection with Tryphosa, Paul sent a special salutation. Rom. 
xvi, 12. 

TRYPHO'SA, (Gr. T pvtyuoa, luxurious .) See Tryphena. 

TU'BAL, (Heb. Tubal ', meaning uncertain,) one of the seven sons 

of Japheth. Gen. x, 2 ; 1 Chron. i, 5. B. C. after 2347. He is thought to 
have been the founder of the Tiberani, said by the scholiasts to have been a 
Scythian tribe. 

TU'BAL-CAIN, (Heb. Tu'bal Ka'yin , j'j? meaning uncertain,) the 

son of Lamech by his wife Zillah, who is described (Gen. iv, 22) as “ ham- 
mering all kinds of cutting things in brass and iron ” — the inventor of edge 
tools. B. C. about 3875. 

TYCH'ICUS, (Gr. Tvxtuog, fateful.) one of Paul’s fellow-laborers. We 
first meet him as a companion of the apostle during a portion of his return 
journey from the third missionary tour. Acts xx, 4. He is there expressly called 
(with Trophimus) a native of Asia Minor; but while Trophimus went with 
Paul to Jerusalem (Acts xxi, 29) Tychicus was left behiud in Asia, probably 
at Miletus. Acts xx, 15, 38. In Paul’s first imprisonment he was with the 
apostle again, as we see from Col. iv, 7, 8; Ephes. vi, 21, 22. The next 
reference to him is in Tit. iii, 12. Here Paul (writing possibly from Ephe- 
sus) says that it is probable he may send Tychicus to Crete, about the time 
when he himself goes to Nicopolis. In 2 Tim. iv, 12, (written at Rome dur- 
ing the second imprisonment,) he says, “ I am herewith sending Tychicus to 
Ephesus.” There is much probability in the conjecture that Tychicus was 
one of the two “ brethren ” (Trophimus being the other) who were asso- 
ciated with Titus (2 Cor. viii, 16-24) iu conducting the business of the col- 
lection for the poor Christians in Judea. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

TYRAN'NUS, (Gr. T vpavvoc, sovereign ,) the man in whose school Paul 
taught for two years during his sojourn at Ephesus. Acts xix, 9. The fact 
that he taught in his school after quitting the synagogue favors the opinion 
that he was a Greek, but whether he was a convert is uncertain. 

U'CAL, (Heb. TJkaV , or UJcJcaV , i?3K,) a word which occurs as a 

proper name in the received version of Trov. xxx, 1 : “ The man spake 
unto Ithiel, even unto Ithiel and Ucal.” Most great authorities indorse 
this translation, and regard these two persons as disciples of “ Agur the 
son of Jakeh,” a Hebrew teacher whose authorship of this unique chapter 
has rescued his name from obscurity; but the passage is very obscure. 
By slightly varying the punctuation it has been translated, “I have labored 
for God, and have obtained,” (Cocceius;) “I have wearied myself for 


525 


UEL— UR. 

God, and have given up the investigation,” (J. D. Micliaelis;) “I have 
wearied myself for God, and have fainted,” (Bertheau;) “I have wearied 
myself for God, and I became dull,” (Hitzig,) etc. If either of these views 
be correct, the repetition of the first clause of the sentence is merely for 
poetical effect. Bunsen* however, supposes the speaker to have given 
himself a symbolical name, somewhat in the manner of the English Puri- 
tans, and translates, “ The saying of the man * I-have-wearied-myself- 
for-God:’ I have wearied myself for God, and have fainted away.” Dr. 
Davidson, with greater accuracy, reads : "I am weary, 0 God, I am 
weary, 0 God, and am become weak.” Ewald combines the two names into 
one, which he renders, “ God-be-with-me-and-I-am-strong,” and bestows it 
upon a character whom he supposes to engage in a dialogue with Agur. 
Keil follows Ewald’s translation of the names, but disjoins them, and re- 
gards the first as typifying the reverential believers in God among Agur’s 
disciples, and the second the self-righteous free-thinkers “who thought 
themselves superior to the revealed law, and in practical atheism indulged 
the lusts of the flesh.” 

U'EL, (Heb. TJel'y will of God,) one of the sons of Bani. He is 

mentioned in Ezra x, 34, as one of those who “ gave their hands that they 
would put away ” their Gentile wives after the captivity. B. C. 456. 

UK'NAZ, (the marginal reading of “ even Kenaz,” 1 Cbron. iv, 15,) 
grandson of Caleb, the son of Jephunneh. See Kenaz. 

U'LAM, (Heb. Ulam', porch.) 

1. A son of Sheresh and father of Bedan, of the tribe of Manasseh. B. 0. 
1444. Mentioned only in the genealogical record. 1 Chron. vii, 16, 17. 

2. The first-born of Eshek, a direct descendant from Mephibosheth, the 
grandson of King Saul ; lived about B. C. 588. His sons and grandsons, 
numbering 150, were famous as archers and “ mighty men of valor.” 
1 Chron. viii, 39, 40. 

UL'LA, (Heb. Ulla', 5^y, yoke.) 1 Chron. vii, 39. A descendant of 

Asher and father of three of the “ chief of the princes ” of the tribe. B. C. 
about 1014. 

UN'NI, (Heb. TJnni\ 'Dy, depressed , or heard of Jehovah.) 

1. A relative of Heman the singer, who, with other Levites, was ap- 

pointed, by order of King David, to perform on the psaltery in the taber- 
nacle service. B. C. 1043. 1 Chron. xv, 18, 20. 

2. A Levite employed in the musical service of the temple after the re- 
turn from captivity. B. C. 535. Neh. xii, 9. This name should be written 
Unno , Heb. iay. 

UR, (Heb. same, light,) mentioned 1 Chron. xi, 35, as the father of 
Eliphal, one of David’s “valiant men.” B. C. about 1043. There is evi- 
dent confusion at this point in the genealogical list, both here and in the 
parallel passage, 2 Sam. xxiii, 34. Hepher must either be regarded as 
another name for Ur, or else omitted as an error in copying. The phrase 
“the son of” should be erased from 2 Sam xxiii, 34, and Ahasbai and Ur 
might then be identified. 


526 


URI — URIEL. 

U'RI, (Heb. Uri', fiery.) 

1. The father of Bezaleel, one of the architects of the tabernacle. He 
was of the tribe of Judah and the son of Hur. Exod. xxxi, 2 ; xxxv, 30 ; 
xxxviii, 22; 1 Chron. ii, 20; 2 Chron. i, 5. B. C, l^efore 1491. 

2. The father of Geber, Solomon’s purveying officer in Gilead. 1 Kings 
iv, 19. B. C. before 1014. 

3. One of the temple porters who put away his Gentile wife after the ex- 
ile. Ezra x, 24. B. 0. 456. 

URFAHj (Heb. Uriyah', rPTlK, and Uriya'hu, !jn s TlK, flame of Jehovah) 

1. One of David’s heroes (1 Chron. xi, 41 ; 2 Sam. xxiii, 39) and husband 
of Bathsheba. He was a Hittite. His name, however, and his manner of 
speech (2 Sam. xi, 11) indicate that he had adopted the Jewish religion. 
He married Bathsheba, a woman of extraordinary beauty, the daughter of 
Eliam. The time of the illicit intercourse between David and his wife, Uri- 
ah was in camp with Joab ; but when the king was informed bjr Bathsheba 
that she was with child by him, he ordered Uriah to come to Jerusalem, on 
the pretext of asking news of the war — really in the hope that his return to 
his wife might cover the shame of his own crime. The king met with an 
unexpected obstacle in the austere, soldier-like spirit which guided all Uri- 
ah’s conduct, and which gives us a high notion of the character and dis- 
cipline of David’s officers. On the morning of the third day David sent 
him back to the camp with a letter containing the command to Joab to cause 
his destruction in the battle. The device of Joab was to observe the part 
of the wall of Rabbath-Ammon where the greatest force of the besieged 
was congregated, and thither, as a kind of forlorn hope, to send Uriah. A 
sally took place. Uriah and the officers with him advanced as far as the 
gate of the city, and were there shot down by the archers on the wall. Just 
as Joab had forewarned the messenger, the king broke into a furious pas- 
sion on hearing of the loss. The messenger, as instructed by Joab, calmly 
continued, and ended the story with the words : “ Thy servant also, Uriah 
the Hittite, is dead.” 2 Sam. xi, 25. B. C. about 1035. 

2. A priest in the reign of Ahaz, who is introduced in Scripture history as a 
witness to Isaiah’s prophecy concerning Maher-shalal-hash-baz. Isa. viii, 2. 
B. C. about 7 42. He is probably the same as Urijah, the priest who built 
the idolatrous altar for King Ahaz. 2 Kings xvi, 10, sq ., “ Urijah.” He was 
probably high-priest at the time, succeeding to Azariah, who was high-priest 
in the reign of Uzziah, and was succeeded by that Azariah who was high- 
priest in the reign of Hezekiah. Hence it is likely that he was son of the 
former and father of the latter. 

3. A priest of the family of Hakkoz, (Authorized Version, “ Koz,”) who 
supported Ezra while reading the law to the people. (“ Urijah,” Neh. viii, 4.) 
B. G. 457. He is. probably the same with the father of Meremoth. Ezra 
viii, 33 ; Neh. iii, 4, 21. 

URI'AS, the Greek form of Uriah, the husband of Bathsheba. Matt, i, 6. 

U RIEL, (Heb. Uriel', flame of God.) 

1. A Levite of the family of Kohath. His father’s name was Uzziah. 
1 Chron. vi, 24. 

2. Chief of the Kohathites, who assisted, with 120 of his brethren, in 


URlJAH — UZAI. 527 

bringing the ark from the house of Obed-edom. 1 Chron. xv, 5, 11. B. C. 
about 1042. 

3. Uriel of Gibeah was the father of Maachah, or Michaiah, wife of Re- 
hoboara and mother of Abijah. 2 Chron. xiii, 2. B. C. before 974. In chap, 
xi, 20, she is called the daughter (=granddaugliter) of Absalom. 

URI'JAH. 

1 . 2 Kings xvi, 10, $< 7 .= Uriah, No. 2 . 

2 . Neb. iii, 4, 21 = Uriah, No. 3. 

3. The son of Shemaiah of Kirjath-jearim, who prophesied in the days of 
Jehoiakim. When the king sought bis death he fled to Egypt, but his re- 



RUINS AT KIRJATH-JEARIM. 


treat was soon discovered. Elnathan brought him to Jehoiakim, who put 
him to death and cast his body among the graves of the common people. 
Jer. xxvi. 20-23. B. C. about 609. 

U'THAI, or U'THAI, (Heb. Uthay', helpful.) 

1. The son of Ammihud, of the children of Pharez, the son of Judah. 
He resided at Jerusalem after the return from Babylon. 1 Chron. ix, 4. B. C. 
about 536. 

2. One of the sons of Bigvai, who returned with seventy males in the 
second caravan with Ezra. Ezra viii, 14. B. C. about 457. 

UZ, (Heb. Uts, py, perhaps wooded .) 

1. A son of Aram (Gen. x. 23 ; 1 Chron. i, 17) and a grandson of Shem. 
B. C. about 2247. 

2. A son of Nahor by Milcah. Gen. xxii, 21. Authorized Version, Huz. 

3. A son of Dishan and grandson of Seir. Gen. xxxvi, 28. B.C. about 1840. 

U'ZAIj or U'ZAI, (Heb. TJzay', strong ,) the father of Palal, one of 

those who assisted in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. Neb. iii, 25. B. C, 
before 447. 



528 


UZAL— UZZt. 


U'ZAL, (Heb. UzaV, perhaps separate ,) the sixth of the thirteen 

sons of Joktan, a descendant of Shem. Gen. x, 27 ; 1 Chron. i, 21. B. C. 
after 2247. Authorities quite generally agree that Sanaa, the metropolis of 
Yemen, is the modern name of the Uzal founded by this person. 

UZ'ZA, (Heb. Uzza', Kty, strength.) 

1. The proprietor, apparently, of (or the person after whom was named) 
the garden in which Manasseli and Amon were buried. 2 Kings xxi, 18, 26. 
B. C. before 643. 

2. (1 Chron. vi, 29.) See Uzzah, No. 2. 

3. The older of the two sons of Ehud the Benjamite, born to him after 
the removal of his former children. 1 Chron. viii, 7. 

4. The “ children of Uzza” were a family of Nethinim who returned with 
Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 49; Neh. vii, 51. B. C. before 536. 

UZ'ZAH, (Heb. Uzzah', rtM strength.) 

1. One of the sons of Abinadab of Kirjath-jearim. He, with his brother 
Ahio, accompanied the ark when David sought to remove it to Jerusalem. 
When the procession had reached the threshing-floor of Nachon the oxen 
drawing the cart upon which the ark was placed stumbled. Uzzah, who 
was walking beside it, put out his hand to prevent its falling. He died 
immediately, being smitten by God on account of his offense. The event 
produced a profound sensation, and David, fearing to carry the ark any far- 
ther, had it placed in the house of Obed-edom. 2 Sam. vi, 3-10 ; 1 Chron. 
xiii, 7, 9, 11. B. C. 1045. 

Difficulty.— Why was Uzzah so severely punished? is a question variously an- 
swered. We think the following answer correct : “ According to Num. iv, the ark 
was not only to be moved by none but Levites, but it was to be carried on the 
shoulders ; and in ver. 15 even the Levites were expressly forbidden to touch it on 
pain of death. But instead of taking these instructions as their rule, they had fol- 
lowed the example of the Philistines when they sent back the ark, (1 Sam. vi, 7, 
sq.,) and had placed it upon a new cart and directed Uzzah to drive it, while, as 
his conduct on the occasion clearly shows, he had no idea of the unapproachable 
holiness of the ark of God, and had to expiate his offense with his life, as a warn- 
ing to all the Israelites.”— Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary, in loco. 

2. A Levite of the sons of Merari, the son of Shimei and father of 
Shimea. 1 Chron. vi, 29. B. C. before 1041. 

UZ'ZI, (Heb. Uzzi', vjy, strong , or my strength.) 

1. Son of Bukki and father of Zeraliiah, in the line of the high-priests. 
1 Chron. vi, 5, 51; Ezra viii, 4. B. C. before 1171. Josephus {Ant., v, 
11, 5) relates that after Ozi (Uzzi) of the family of Eleazar, Eli of the famity 
of Ithamar received the high-priestliood. But the circumstances that led to 
the transfer of this honor are unknown. 

2. Son of Tola, the son of Issachar. 1 Chron. vii, 2, 3. B. C. after 1706. 

3. Son of Bela, of the tribe of Benjamin. 1 Chron. vii, 7. B. C. after 1706. 

4. The son of Michri and father of Elah, among the ancestors of a Benja- 
mite house which settled at Jerusalem after the return from captivity. 
1 Chron. ix, 8. B. C. before 536. 

5. A Levite, son of Bani, and overseer of the Levites dwelling at Jerusa- 
lem in the time of Nehemiah. Neh. xi, 22. B. C. 536. 

6. A priest, chief of the course of Jedaiah in the time of Joiakim the 


UZZIA — UZZIAH. 


629 


high-priest. Neh. xii, 19. He is probably the same with one of the priests 
who assisted Ezra in the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem. Neh. xii, 42. 
B. C. about 500. 

UZZFA, (Heb. Uzziya ', probably for Uzziah,) the “ Ashterathite ” 

(that is, from Ashtaroth, beyond Jordan) who was one of David’s warriors. 

1 Chron. xi, 44. B. C. 1047. 

UZZI'AH, (Heb. Uzziyah ' , rp-iy, strength of Jehovah.) 

1. The tenth king of Judah. T "‘- 

1. Name and Family. In some passages his name appears in th^ 
lengthened form Azariah, which Gesenius attributes to an error of the copy- 
ists. This is possible, but there are other instances of the princes of Ju- 
dah changing their names on succeeding to the throne. His father was 
Amaziah, who was slain by conspirators. 

2. History. (1) Chosen King. After the murder of Amaziah, his son 

Uzziah was chosen by the people to occupy the vacant throne at the age 
of sixteen. 2 Kings xiv, 21. B. C. 810. (2) Wars. He began his reign 

by a successful expe- 
dition against his fa- 
ther’s enemies, the 
Edomites, who had 
revolted from Judah 
in Jehoram’s time, 
eighty years before, 
and penetrated as far 
as the head of the Gulf 
of Akaba, where he 
took the impoftaut 
place of Elath. 2 Kings 
xiv, 22 ; 2 Chron. xxvi, 

1, etc. Uzziah waged 
other victorious wars 
in the south, especially 
against the Mehunim, 
or people of Ma&n, and 
the Arabs of Gurbaal. 

Toward the west Uz- 
ziah fought with equal 
success against the 
Philistines, leveled to 
the ground the walls 
of Gath, Jabneh, and 
Ashdod, and founded 
new fortified cities in 
the Philistine territory. (3) Reign. Uzziah strengthened the walls of Je- 
rusalem, and was a great patron of agricult ure. He never deserted the wor- 
ship of the true God, and was much influenced by Zechariah, a prophet 
who is only mentioned in connection with him. 2 Chron. xxvi, 5. So the 
southern kingdom was raised to a condition of prosperity which it had not 
known since the death of Solomon. During his reign an earthquake occurred 
which was apparently very serious in its consequences, for it is alluded to 



AN ANCIENT TOWER. 


530 


UZZIEL — VASHTI. 


as a chronological epoch by Amos, (chap, i, 1,) and mentioned in Zech. 
xiv, 5, as a convulsion from which the people “ fled.” (4) Sin and Death. 
The end of Uzziah was less prosperous than his beginning. Elated with 
his splendid career, he determined to burn incense on the altar of God, but 
was opposed by the high-priest Azariah and eighty others. (See Exod. xxx, 
7, 8; Num. xvi, 40; xviii, 7.) The king was enraged at their resistance, 
and, as he pressed forward with his censer was suddenly smitten with lep- 
rosy. Uzziah was “ buried with liis fathers,” yet apparently not actually in 
the roj r al sepulchers. 2 Chron. xxvi, 23. B. C. about 758. (Smith.) 

• 2. A Kohathite Levite and ancestor of Samuel. 1 Chron. vi, 24. B. C. 
perhaps 1300. 

3. Father of Jehonathan, one of David’s overseers. 1 Chron. xxvii, 25. 
B. C. about 1015. 

4. Father of Athaiah or Uthai, resident in Jerusalem after the exile. 
Neh. xi, 4. B. C. before 536. 

5. A priest of the sons of Uarim who had taken a foreign wife in the days 
of Ezra. Ezra x, 21. B. C. 456. 

UZZrEL, or UZ'ZIEL, (Heb. Uzziel', strength of God) 

1. Fourth son of Kohath, father of Mishael, Elzaplian or Elizaphan, and 
Zithri, and uncle to Aaron. Exod. vi, 18, 22 ; Lev. x, 4. B. C. about 1530. 

2. A Simeonite captain, son of Ishi, in the days of Hezekiah. 1 Chron. 

iv, 42. B. C. about 712. t 

3. Head of a Benjamite house, of the sons of Bela. 1 Chron. vii, 7. B. C. 
after 1706. 

4. A musician, of the sons of Heman, in David’s reign. 1 Chron. xxv, 4. 
B. C. about 1015. 

5. A Levite, of the sons of Jeduthun, who took an active part in purifying 
the temple in the days of Hezekiah. 2 Chron. xxix, 14, 19. B. C. 726. 

6. Son of Harliaiah, probably a priest in the days of Neliemiah who took 
part in repairing the wall. Neh. iii, 8. He is described as “ of the gold- 
smiths,” that is, of those priests whose hereditary office it was to repair or 
make the sacred vessels. B. C. about 445. 

VAJEZ'ATHA, or VAJEZA'THA, (Heb. Vayezatha ', Xfl PI, pure, or 

strong ,) one of the ten sons of Haman whom the Jews slew in Shushan. 
Esth. ix, 9. B. C. about 509. 

VANI'AH, (Heb. Vanyah n*01, Jah is praise) one of the “sons of 

Bani,” and an Israelite who divorced his Gentile wife after the captivity. 
Ezra x, 36. B. C. 456. 

VASH'NI, (Heb. Vashni', my strength) the name, according to 

1 Chron. vi, 28, of Samuel’s elder son, which is given in 1 Sam. viii, 2, as 
Joel, (q. v.,) No. 1. The true reading should be vjgh, “the second; ” and 
the name of Joel has dropped out. ' " : 

VASH'TI, (Heb. Vashti ', viKh, a beauty) the queen of Ahasuerus, (Xerx- 
es,) who, because she refused to obey the king and exhibit herself to the 
guests at the royal banquet, was deposed. Esth. i, 9-ii, 1. B. C. about 519. 


YOPHSI — ZABUD. §3l 

VOPH'SI, (Heb. Vophsi ', 'DDt, additional , or ncA,) the father of Nahbi, 
one of the explorers of Canaan. Num. xiii, 14. B. C. 1490. 

Z A' AVAN, (Heb. Zaavan ', pjjf, unquiet ,) the second-named of the three 

sons of Ezer and a Horite chief. Gen. xxxvi, 2 7 ; 1 Chron. i, 42, “ Zavan.” 
B. C. before 1780. 

ZA'BAD, (Heb. Zabad ', ^JUT, gift.) 

1. Son of Nathan, sou of Attai, son of Ahlai, Sheslian’s daughter, 
(1 Chron. ii, 31-37,) and hence called son of Ahlai. 1 Chron. xi, 41 B. C. 
1047. He was one of David’s mighty men, but none of his deeds have been 
recorded. 

2. An Ephraimite, son of Tahatli and father of Sliuthelah, 2. 1 Chron. 
vii, 21. 

3. Son of Shimeath, an Ammonitess ; an assassin who, with Jeliozabad, 
slew King Joash, according to 2 Chron. xxiv, 26. B. C. 839. The assas- 
sins were both put to death by Amaziah, but their children were spared, 
(chap, xxv, 3, 4,) in obedience to the law of Moses. Deut. xxiv, 16. In 
2 Kings xii, 21, his name is written, probably more correctly, Jozachar. 

4. 5, 6. Three Israelites, “ sons ” respectively of Zattu, (Ezra x, 27,) 
Hashum, (chap, x, 33,) and Nebo, (chap, x, 43,) who divorced their Gentile 
wives after the captivity. B. C. 456. 

ZAB'BAI, or ZABBA'I, (Heb. Zabbay', meaning unknown.) 

1. One of the “ sons” of Bebai who divorced his Gentile wife. Ezra x, 28. 
B. C. 456. 

2. Father of the Baruch who assisted in repairing the walls of Jerusalem 
after the exile. Neh. iii, 20. B. C. 445. 

ZAB'BUD, (Heb. Zabbud *i:QT,) a “ son ” of Bigvai, who returned from 

Babylon with Ezra. Ezra viii, 14. B. C. 459. 

ZAB'DI, (Heb. Zabdi ', gift of Jehovah.) 

1. The son of Zerah and grandfather of Achan, of the tribe of Judah. 
Josh, vii, 1, 17, 18. B. C. before 1451. 

2. The third of the nine sons of Shimhi the Benjamite. 1 Chron. viii, 19. 
B.-C. about 1450. 

3. The Shiphmite, (that is, inhabitant of Shepham,) and David’s custodian 
of wine-cellars. 1 Chron. xxvii, 27. B. C. about 1015. 

4. Son of Asaph the minstrel and grandfather of Mattaniah, a prominent 
Levite in the time of Nehemiah. Neh. xi, 17. B. C. 445. 

ZAB DIEL, (Heb. Zabdiel ', gift of God.) 

1. The father of Jasliobeam, which latter was commander of the first 
division of David’s army. 1 Chron. xxvii, 2. B. C. about 1015. 

2. The “son of Hagnedolim,” (that is, “mighty men of valor,”) who was 
overseer of 128 of the captives returned from the captivity. Neh. xi, 14. 
B. C. 445. 

ZA'BUD, (Heb. Zabud given,) the son of Nathan. 1 Kings iv, 5. 
He is described as a priest, (Authorized Version, “principal officer,”) and 


532 


ZABULON — ZACHARIAS. 


as holding at the court of Solomon the confidential post of “ king’s friend,’* 
which had been occupied by Hushai the Archite during the reign of David. 
2 Sam. xv, 37 ; xvi, 16 ; 1 Chron. xxvii, 33. B. C. 1014. 

ZAB'ULON, the Greek form of the name Zebulun. Matt, iv, 13, 15; 
Rev. vii, 8. 

ZAC'CAI, (Heb. Zakkay\ '3T, pure.) The sons of Zaccai, to the number 
of 760. returned with Zerubbabel. Ezra ii, 9 ; Neh. vii, 14. B. 0. before 536. 

ZACCHE'US, more properly ZACCHiE'US, (Gr. ZaKx&iog, for Heb. 
Zaccai ,) a chief publican (Gr. 'apxire'kcdvyg) residing at Jericho, who, being 
short of stature, climbed up into a sycamore-tree in order that he might 
see Jesus as he passed through that town. When Jesus came to the tree 
he paused, looked up, and calling Zacchaeus by name, bade him hasten and 
come down, becahse he iutended to be a guest at his house. With undis- 
guised joy Zacchaeus hastened down and welcomed the Master. The people 
murmured, saying, “ That he was gone to be a guest with a man that is a 
sinner.” Zacchaeus was especially odious, as being a Jew and occupying an 
official rank among the tax-gatherers, which would indicate unusual activ- 
ity in the service of the Roman oppressors. He seems to have been 
deeply moved by the consideration shown him by Jesus, and, before all the 
people, made the vow which attested his penitence: “ Behold the half of my 
goods, Lord, I hereby give to the poor ; and whatever fraudulent gain I 
ever made from any one, I now restore fourfold,” greater restitution than 
the law required. Num. v, 7. Jesus thereupon made the declaration, “This 
day is salvation come to this house, forasmuch as he also is [in the true 
spiritual sense] a son of Abraham.” Luke xix, 1-10. 

ZAC'CHUR, (Num. xiii, 4.) See Zaccur, No. 1. 

ZACJ'CUR, (Heb. Zakkur', -ftST, mindful.) 

1. The father of Shammua, the Reubenite spy. Num. xiii, 4. B. C. before 
1490. 

2. Son of Hamuel and father of Shimei. 1 Chron. iv, 26 ; Authorized Ver- 
sion, Zacchur. B. C. before 1450. 

3. A Levite, and third-named of the four “ sons of Merari by Jaaziali.” 
1 Chron. xxiv, 27. B. C. 1015. 

4. Son of Asaph the singer and leader of the third course of Levitical 
musicians. 1 Chron. xxv, 2, 10 ; Neh. xii, 35. B. C. about 1015. 

5. The son of Imri, who assisted Nehemiah in rebuilding the city wall. 
Neh. iii, 2. B. C. 445. 

6. A Levite, or family of Levites, who signed the covenant with Nehe- 
miah. Neh. x, 12. B. C. 445. 

7. A Levite whose son or descendant, Hanan, was one of the treasurers 
over the treasuries appointed by Nehemiah. Neh. xiii, 13. B. C. 434. 

ZACHARFAH, (another form of Zechariah,) the son of Jeroboam II., 
the last of the house of Jehu and fourteenth king of Israel. He ascended 
the throne upon the death of his father. 2 Kings xiv, 29. B. C. about 773. 
He reigned only six months, being slain by Shallum. Chap. xv. 8-10. 

ZACHARFAS, (Z axaptac, Greek form of Heb. Zechariah.) 

1. Son of Barachias, who, our Lord says, was slain by the Jews between 
the altar and the temple. Matt, xxiii, 35; Luke xi, 51. Identification. 


ZACHER — ZADOK. 


533 


There has been much dispute who this Zacharias was. Many of the Greek 
fathers have maintained that the father of John the Baptist is the person to 
whom our Lord alludes ; but there can be little or no doubt that the allusion 
is to Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada. 2 Cliron. xxiv. 20, 21. 

2. Father of John the Baptist. Luke i, 35, sq. B. C. before 8. 

ZA'CHER, (Heb. Ze'ker , “Dl, memorial ,) one of the sons of Jehiel, the 

father or founder of Gibeon, by his wife Maachah. 1 Chron viii, 31; called 
(chap, ix, 37) Zechariah. 

ZA'DOK, (Heb. TsadoJc', just.) 

1. Son of Ahitub, and, with Abiathar, high-priest in the time of David. 

He was of the house of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, (1 Chron. xxiv, 3,) and 
eleventh in descent from Aaron. (1) Joins David. In 1 Chron. xii, 28, we 
are told that he joined David at Hebron, after Saul’s death, with twenty-two 
captains of his father’s house, and, apparently, with 900 men, (4600 — 3700, 
vers. 26, 27.) B. C. 1048. (2) Fidelity to David. From this time Zadok 

was unwavering in his loyalty to David. When Absalom revolted and Da- 
vid fled from Jerusalem, Zadok and all the Levites bearing the ark accom- 
panied him, and it was only at the king’s express command that they 
returned to Jerusalem, and became the medium of communication between 
the king and Hushai the Archite. 2 Sam. xv, xvii, 15. When Absalom was 
dead, Zadok and Abiathar were the persons who persuaded the elders of 
Judah to invite David to return. 2 Sam. xix, 11. When Adonijali. in Da- 
vid’s old age, set up for king, and had persuaded Joab and Abiathar the 
priest to join his party, Zadok was unmoved, and was employed by David 
to anoint Solomon to be king in his room. 1 Kings i. (3) Rewarded. For 
this fidelity he was rewarded by Solomon, who “ thrust out Abiathar from 
being priest unto the Lord,” and “put in Zadok the priest” in his room. 

1 Kings ii, 27, 35. From this time, however, we hear little of him. It is 
said in general terms in the enumeration of Solomon’s officers of state that 
Zadok was the priest, (1 Kings iv, 4; 1 Chron. xxix, 22.) but no single act 
of his is mentioned. Zadok and Abiathar were cohanim, that is, officiating 
high-priests. 2 Sam xv, 35, 36; xix, 11. The duties of the office were di- 
vided. Zadok ministered before the tabernacle at Gibeon, (1 Chron. xvi, 39 ;) 
Abiathar had the care of the ark at Jerusalem. Not, however, exclusively, 
as appears from 1 Chron. xv, 11 ; 2 Sam. xv, 24, 25, 29. 

2. In lhe genealogy of the high-priests in 1 Chron. vi, 12, there is a sec- 
ond Zadok, son of a second Ahitub and father of Shallum. It is supposed 
by some that the name was inserted by error of a copyist, while others 
identify him with Odeas, mentioned by Josephus, (Ant., x, 8, 6.) He is 
perhaps the same person as the one mentioned in chap, ix, 11 ; Neh. 
xi, 11. 

3. Father of Jerusha, the wife of Uzziah and mother of King Jotham. 

2 Kings xv, 33 ; 2 Chron. xxvii, 1. B. C. before 758. 

4. Son of Baana, who repaired a portion of the wall in the time of Nehe- 
miah. Neh. iii, 4. He is probably the same who is in the list of those that 
sealed the covenant in Neh. x, 21, as in both cases his name follows that 
of Meshezabeel. B. C. 445. 

5. Son of Immer, a priest who repaired a portion of the wall opposite his 
house. Neh. iii, 29. B. C, 445, 


584 


ZAHAN — ZEBADIAH. 


6. The scribe whdrn Nehemiah appointed one of the three principal treas- 
urers of the temple. Neh. xiii, 13. B. C. 445. 

ZA'HAM, (Heb. same, DHT, loathing ,) the last of the three sons of Reho- 

boam by A bihail. 2 Chron. xi, 19. B. C. about 974. Keil ( Commentary , 
in loco) holds that Mahalath is the wife of Rehoboam, and that Abihail, 
the daughter of Eliab, was Mahalath ’s mother. 

ZA LAPH, (Heb. Tsalaph', wound,) the father of Hanun, who as- 
sisted in repairing the wall of Jerusalem after the captivity. Neh. iii. 30. 
B. C. 445. 

ZAL'MON, (Heb. Tsalmon ', shady,) an Ahohite (that is. sprung 

from the Benjamite family of Alioah) and one of David’s warriors. 2 Sam. 
xxiii, 28. B. C. 1018. In the parallel passage (1 Chron. xi, 29) he is called 
Ilai, (q. v.) 

ZALMUN'NA, (Heb. Tsalmunna', deprived of protection,) one of 

the two kings of Midian who were captured and slain by Gideon. Judg. viii, 
5-21 ; Psa. lxxxiii, 11. B. C. about 1249. See Zebah. 

ZAPH'NATH-PAANE'AH, (Heb. Tsaphenath' Paane'ach, npya fDSV 

= probably the Coptic P-sont-em-ph-anh, that is, sustainer of life,) the name 
given by Pharaoh to Joseph. Gen. xli, 45. 

ZA'RA, (Z apu,) the Greek form (Matt, i, 3) of the Hebrew name Zerah, 
(q. v.,) No. 2. 

ZA'RAH, (Gen. xxxviii, 30 ; xlvi, 12.) See Zerah, No. 2. 

ZAT'THU, (Neh, x, 14.) See Zattu. 

ZAT'TU, (Heb. Zattu', fcOfiT, perhaps pleasant) an Israelite whose “chil- 
dren,” to the number of 945 (Ezra ii, 8) or 845, (Neh. vii, 13,) returned with 
Zerubbabel. B. C. before 536. Several of his descendants renounced their 
Gentile wives, (Ezra x, 27 ;) and a person (or family) was among those who 
sealed the covenant made by Nehemiah. Neh. x, 14. “ Zatthu.” 

ZA'VAN, (1 Chron. i, 42.) See Zaavan. 

ZA'ZA, (Heb. Zaza', tftT, projection, [?]) the second son of Jonathan, a 

descendant of Jerahmeel, of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 33. B. C. after 
1450. 

ZEBADFAH, (Heb. Zebadyah', and Zebadya'hu, gift of 

Jehovah. T 8 8 T 8 8 

1. A Benjamite, of the sons of Beriah. 1 Chron. viii, 15. B. C. about 1450. 

2. A Benjamite, of the sons of Elpaal. 1 Chron. viii, 17. B. C. about 1450. 

3. One of the two sons of Jeroham of Gedor who joined David at Zik- 
lag. 1 Chron. xii, 7. B. C. about 1038. 

4. Third son of Meshelemiah the Korhite. 1 Chron. xxvi, 2. B. C. about 
1015. 

5. Son of Asahel, the brother of Joab, of the fourth division of David’s 
army. 1 Chron. xxvii, 7. B. C. about 1015. 

6. A Levite in the reign of Jehoshaphat, sent to teach the law in the cit- 
ing of Judah, 2 Chron. xvii, 8. B. C. 912. 


ZEBAH— ZEBUL. 535 

7. The son of Ishmael and prince of the house of Judah in the reign of 
Jehoshaphat. 2 Chron. xix, 11. B. C. 896. 

8. Son of Michael, of the “ sons ” of Shephatiah, who returned with Ezra 
from captivity with eighty males. Ezra viii, 8. B. C. about 457. 

9. A priest of the sons of Immer who had married a foreign wife after 
the return from Babylon. Ezrax, 20. B. C. 456. 

ZE BAH, (Heb. Ze'bach', rQT, sacrifice ,) one of the two Midianitish kings 

overthrown by Gideon. He is mentioned in Judg. viii, 5-21; Psa. lxxxiii, 
11, and always in connection with Zalmunna. They seem to have com- 
manded the invasion of Palestine, leading their hordes with the cry, “ Seize 
these goodly pastures.” Psa. lxxxiii, 12. While Oreb and Zeeb, two of the 
inferior leaders of the incursion, had been slain, with a vast number of 
their people, by the Ephraimites, at the central fords of the Jordan, the two 
kings had succeeded in making their escape by a passage farther to the 
north, (probably the ford near Bethshean,) and thence by the Wacly Yabis , 
through Gilead, to Karkor, a place which is not fixed, but which lay doubt- 
lesshigli up on the Hauran. Here they were reposing with 15,000 men, a 
mere remnant of their huge horde, when Gideon overtook them. The name 
of Gideon was still full of terror, and the Bedouins were entirely unprepared 
for his attack — they fled in dismay, and the two kings were taken. They 
were brought to Ophrah, the native village of their captor, and then Gideon 
asked them, “ What manner of men were they which ye slew at Tabor ? ” 
Up to this time the sheikhs may have believed that they were reserved for 
ransom ; but these words once spoken, there can have been no doubt what 
their fate was to be. They met it like noble children of the desert, simply 
requesting that the blow should be struck by their captor himself; “ and 
Gideon arose and slew them.” B. C. about 1249. 

ZEB'EDEE, or rather ZEBEDiE'US, (Z epedaioc, the Greek form 
probably of Zubdi , or Zebediah ,) the father of James the Great and John, 
(Matt, iv, 21,) and the husband of Salome. Matt, xxvii, 56; Mark xv, 40. 
He was a Galilean fisherman, living probably either at or near Bethsaida. 
From the mention of his “ hired servants,” (Mark i, 20,) and the acquaint- 
ance between John and Annas the high-priest, it has been inferred that the 
family were iii good circumstances. He appears only once in the Gospel 
narrative, namely, in Matt, iv, 21, 22 ; Mark i, 19, 20, where he is seen in 
his boat with his two sons mending their nets. 

ZEBI'NA, (Heb. Zebina ', fcO'ZlT, bought,) one of the “sons” of Nebo, 

who put away his Gentile wife after the captivity. Ezra x, 43. B. 0. 
456. 

ZEBU'DAH, (Heb. Zebudah', JTTC3T, given,) a daughter of Pedaiah of 

Rumah, wife of Josiah and mother of King Jehoiakim. 2 Kings xxiii, 36. 
B. C. before 610. 

ZE'BUL, (Heb. Zebul , dwelling, ) ruler of the city of Shechem un- 
der Abimeleeh. He advised Abimelech of the defection of the Shecliemites, 
and counseled him to advance upon the city. He closed the gates of the 
city against Gaal and his men that went out to fight against Abimelech, and 
thus assisted in their overthrow. Judg. ix, 28-41. B. 0. about 1206. 


536 


ZEBULUN — ZECHAR1AH. 


ZEB'ULUN, (Heb. Ztbulun habitation ,) the tenth son of Jacob 

and the sixth and last of Leah. Gen. xxx, 19,20. B. C. about 1746. We 
have nothing recorded concerning Zebulun personally. In the genealogical 
list (Gen. xlvi) he is mentioned as iiaviug, at the time of the migration into 
Egypt, three sons, founders of the chief families of the tribe. (Compare 
Nurn. xxvi, 26. Tribe. During the Desert journey Zebulun, with Judah 
and Issachar, formed the first camp. The tribe then numbered 57,400. 
Num. i, 31. The head of the tribe at Sinai was Eliab, son of Helon, (chap. 

vii, 24,) and at Shiloh, Elizaphan, son of Parnach. Chap, xxxiv, 25. Its 
representative among the spies was Gaddiel, son of Sodi. Chap, xiii, 10. 

ZE CHARI 'AH, (Heb. Zekaryah ', iT"OT, remembered of Jehovah.) 

1. A cl tef of the Reubenites at the time of the captivity bj r Tiglath- 
pileser. 1 Cliron. v, 7. B. C. about 740. 

2. Son of Meshelemiah, or Shelemiah, a Korhite and keeper of the north 
gate of the tabernacle of the congregation. 1 Cliron. ix, 21. B. C. about 
1042. In chap, xxvi, 2, 14, he is described as “one counseling with under- 
standing.” 

3. One of the sons of Jehiel. 1 Chron. ix, 37. B. C. about 1451. 

4. A Levite of the second order in the temple band as arranged by David, 
appointed to play “ with psalteries on Alamoth.” 1 Chron. xv, 18, 20 ; xvi, 5. 
B. C. about 1042. 

5. One of the priests who, with trumpets, accompanied the ark from the 
house of Obed-edom. 1 Chron. xv, 24. B. C. about 1042. 

6. Son of Isshiah, or Jesiah, a Kohathite Levite descended from Uzziel. 
1 Chron. xxiv, 25. B. C. about 1045 

7. Fourth son of Hosah, of the children of Merari. 1 Chron xxvi, 11. 
B. C. about 1015. 

8. The father of Iddo, who was chief of his tribe, Manasseh in Gilead, in 
the reign of David. 1 Cliron. xxvii, 21. B. C. about 1015. 

9. One of the princes of Judah sent to teach the people the law in the 
reign of Jehoshaphat. 2 Chron. xvii, 7. B. C. 912. 

10. The son of Benaiah and father of Jahaziel, which latter was the Ger- 
slionite Levite who encouraged the army of Jehoshaphat against the Moab- 
ites. 2 Chron. xx, 14. B. C. before 896. 

11. One of the sons of King Jehoshaphat. 2 Chron. xxi, 2. B. C. 889. 

12. Son of the high-priest Jehoiada in the reign of Joash, king of Judah, 
(2 Chron. xxiv, 20,) and therefore the king’s cousin. After the death of 
Jehoiada Zechariali probably succeeded to his office, and in attempting to 
check the reaction in favor of idolatry which immediately followed, lie fell a 
victim to a conspiracy formed against him by the king, and was stoned in 
the court of the temple. B. C. 840. It is probable that “ Zacharias son of 
Barachias,” who was slain between the temple and the altar, (Matt, xxiii, 35.) 
is the same with Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, and that the name of Bar- 
achias as his father crept into the text from a marginal gloss, the writer 
confusing this Zechariah either with Zechariah the prophet, who was the 
son of Berechiah, or with another Zechariali, the son of Jeberechiah. Isa. 

viii, 2. 

13. A prophet in the reign of Uzziah, who appears to have acted as the 
king’s counselor, but of whom nothing is known. 2 Chron. xxvi, 5. B. C. 
810. 


ZECHARIAH. 537 

14. The father of Abijah, or Abi, Hezekiah’s mother. 2 Chron. xxix, 1. 
B. C. before 726. 

15. A Levite who, in the reign of Hezekiah, assisted in the purification of 
the temple. 2 Chron. xxix, 13. B. C. 726. 

16. A Kohathite Levite and an overseer of the temple restoration in the 
reign of Josiah. 2 Chron. xxxiv, 12. B. C. 624. 

17. One of the rulers of the temple in the reign of Josiah. 2 Chron. 
xxxv, 8. B. C. about 623. 

18. The leader of the sons of Pharosh, who, to the number of 150, re- 
turned with Ezra. Ezra viii, 3. B. C. about 457. 

19. The leader of the twenty-eight “ sons ” of Bebai who returned from 
captivity with Ezra. Ezra viii. 11. B. C. 457. 

20. One of the chiefs of the people whom Ezra summoned in council at 
the river Ahava. Ezra viii, 16. He stood at Ezra’s left hand when he ex- 
pounded the law to the people. Nell, viii, 4. B. C. 457. 

21. One of the family of Elam who divorced a foreign wife after the cap- 
tivity. Ezra x, 26. B. C. 456. 

22. One of the ancestors of Athaiah of the tribe of Judah. Neh. xi, 4. 
B. C. before 536. 

23. The son of Shiloni and father of Joiarib, of the family of Perez. Neh. 
xi, 5, 

24. A priest aud ancestor of Adaiah, which latter was prominent in Je- 
rusalem after the captivity. Neh. xi, 12. B. C. before 445. 

25. The representative of the priestly family of Iddo in the days of Joia- 
kim, the son of Jeshua. Neh. xii, 16. Probably the same as Zechariah the 
prophet, the son of Iddo. B. C. about 536. 

26. One of the priests, son of Jonathan, who blew with the trumpets at 
the dedication of the city wall by Ezra and Nehemiah. Neh. xii, 35, 41. 
B. C. 445. 

27. The son of Jeberechiah, who was taken by the prophet Isaiah as one 
of the “ faithful witnesses to record,” when he wrote concerning Maher-shalal- 
hash-baz. Isa. viii, 2. B. C. about 742. 

28. The eleventh of the twelve minor prophets. Zechariah was of priestly 
descent, a son of Berecliiah and grandson of Iddo, (Zech. i, 1, 7,) the chief 
of one of the priestly families that returned from exile along with Zerubba- 
bel. Neh. xii, 4. The mention in Ezra v, 1 ; vi, 14, as the son of Iddo is 
explained by the hypothesis that owing to some unexplained cause — per- 
haps the death of his father — Zechariah followed his grandfather in the 
priestly office, and so the historian dropped the father’s name. Zechariah 
commenced his prophetic labors in the eighth month of the second year of 
Darius. B. C. about 520. In the fourth year of Darius a deputation of 
Jews came to the temple to inquire whether the day on which Jerusalem 
and the temple were reduced to ashes by the Chaldeans was still to be kept 
as a day of mourning and fasting. Zechariah replied to them, declaring that, 
in the sight of Jehovah, obedience is better than fasting. Two other oracles 
delivered by Zechariah are recorded in his book of prophecies. Chaps, 
ix-xi and xii-xiv. According to the fathers, Zechariah exercised his pro- 
phetic office in Chaldea, where he wrought many miracles — returned to Je- 
rusalem when an old man, still discharging the duties of his priestly office, 
aud, dying at an advanced age, was buried in the holy city by the side of 
Haggai. The statement to the effect that he wets slain under Joash has 

34 


538 


ZEDEKIAH. 


arisen from his being confounded with the Zechariah mentioned in 2 Chron. 
xxiv, 20; Matt, xxiii, 35. See No. 12. 

ZEDEKTAH, (Heb. Tsidkiyah ', n s p1V, and Tsidkiya'hu , justice 

of Jehovah .) 

1. Son of Chenaanah and the person who acted as spokesmen of the 
prophets when consulted by Ahab as to the result of his proposed expedi- 
tion to Ramoth-G-ilead. B. C. 897. Preparing himself with a pair of iron 
horns, (the horns of the reem, or buffalo, being the recognized emblem of 
the tribe of Ephraim,) Zedekiah illustrated the manner in which Ahab 
should drive the Syriaus before him. When Micaiah delivered his prophecy 
Zedekiah came near and smote him upon the cheek. For this he was 
threatened by Micaiah in terms that evidently allude to some personal dan- 
ger. The probability that Zedekiah and his followers were false prophets is 
strengthened by the question of the king, “ Is there not here besides a 
prophet of Jehovah that we may inquire of him ? ” 1 Kings xxii, 11 ; 2 Chron. 
xviii, 10. 

2. The last king of Judah. 

1. Family. Zedekiah was the son of Josiah by his wife Hamutal, and 
therefore own brother to Jehoahaz. 2 Kings xxiv, 18; compare xxiii, 31; 

1 Chron. iii, 15. His original name had been Mattaniah , which was changed 
to Zedekiah by Nebuchadnezzar, when he carried off his nephew Jehoiachim 
to Babylon, and left him on the throne of Jerusalem. 

2. Reign. Zedekiah was twenty-one years of age when he was made king. 

2 Kings xxiv, 17, 18 ; 2 Chron. xxxvi, 11. B. C. 593. The earlier portion of 
Zedekiah’s reign was marked by an agitation throughout the whole of Syria 
against the Babylonian yoke. In this movement Jerusalem seems to have 
taken the lead, since in the fourth year of Zedekiah’s reign we find embassa- 
dors from all the neighboring kingdoms — Tyre, Sidon, Edom, and Moab — at 
his court, to consult as to the steps to be taken. This happened either dur- 
ing the king’s absence or immediately after his return from Babylon, whither 
he went, perhaps, to blind the eyes of Nebuchadnezzar to his contemplated 
revolt. Jer. li, 59. The first act of overt rebellion of which any record sur- 
vives was the formation of an alliance with Egypt, of itself equivalent to a 
declaration of enmity with Babylon. As a natural consequence it brought 
on Jerusalem an immediate invasion of the Chaldeans. The mention of 
this event in the Bible, though sure, is extremely slight, and occurs only in 
Jer. xxxvii, 5-11; xxxiv, 21, and Ezek. xvii, 15-20; but Josephus (x, 7, §3) 
relates it more fully, and gives the date of its occurrence, namely, the eighth 
year of Zedekiah. Nebuchadnezzar, aware of Zedekiah’s defection, sent an 
army and reduced the whole country of Judea, excepting Jerusalem, La- 
chish, and Azekah. Jer. xxxiv, 7. Pharaoh having marched to the assistance 
of Zedekiah, the Chaldeans at once raised the siege and advanced to meet 
him. The nobles seized this opportunity of re-enslaving those whom they 
had so recently manumitted. Jer. xxxiv. Shortly after this Jeremiah was 
put in prison, and would probably have lost his life but for the interference 
of Zedekiah. Jer. xxxvii, 15-21. On the tenth day of the tenth month of 
Zedekiah’s ninth year the Chaldeans were again before the walls. Jer. Iii, 4. 
From this time forward the siege progressed slowly but surely to its con- 
summation, with the accompaniment of both famine and pestilence. Zede- 
kiah again interfered to preserve the life of Jeremiah from the vengeance of 
the princes. Chap, xxxviii, 7-13. While the king was hesitating the end 


ZEEB— ZELOPHEHAD. 


539 


was rapidly coming nearer. The city was indeed reduced to the last ex- 
tremity. The fire of the besiegers had throughout beeu very destructive, 
but it was now aided by a severe famine. The bread had long since been 
consumed, (Jer. xxxviii, 9,) and all the terrible expedients had been tried to 
which the wretched inhabitants of a besieged town are forced to resort in 
such cases. At last, after sixteen dreadful months, the catastrophe arrived. 
It was on the ninth day of the fourth month, about the middle of July, at 
midnight, as Josephus with careful minuteness informs 11 s, that the breach 
in those stout and venerable walls was effected. Passing in through the 
breach, they made their, way, as their custom was, to the 'center of the city, 
and for the first time the temple was entered by a hostile force. Zedekiah 
fled, but was betrayed by some Jews who had deserted to the enemy. After 
his capture he and his sons were sent to Nebuchadnezzar at Riblah, while 
his daughters were kept at Jerusalem. Nebuchadnezzar reproached Zede- 
kiah for breaking his oath of allegiance, ordered his sons to be slain before 
him, and then his own eyes to be thrust out. He was loaded with chains 
and taken to Babylon, where he died. (Smith, Dictionary , s. v.) 

Difficulty.— At first sight there seems a discrepancy between Jer. xxxiv, 3 ; 
2 Kings xxv, 7 ; Ezek. xii, 13. The first passage, however, does not assert that he 
should actually see Babylon, but that he should see the king and go thither. The 
above facts verify the predictions. Zedekiah saw the king of Babylon, but not 
the city itself, having lost his sight before being taken there. 

3. A son of Jeconiah and grandson of Jehoiakim, king of Judah. 1 Chron. 
iii, 16. B. C. 598 or later. Some identify him with the person mentioned 
in ver. 15, but Keil ( Commentary , in loco) conjectures that he was a literal 
son, and not simply a successor of Jeconiah, and that he died before the 
exile. 

4. The son of Maaseiali and a false prophet among the captives in Baby- 
lon. He was denounced by Jeremiah for having, with Ahab, uttered false 
prophecies, and for flagitious conduct. Their names were to become a by- 
word, and their terrible fate — death by burning — a warning. 

5. The son of Hananiah and one of the princes of Judah who received the 
announcement that Baruch had delivered the words of Jeremiah to the peo- 
ple. Jer. xxxvi, 12. B. 0. 607. 

ZE'EB, (Heb. Zeeb ' , wolf,) one of the princes of Midian who were 

defeated by Gideon, probably near the Jordan. Zeeb was slain in a wine- 
press, which in later times bore his name. Judg. vii, 24, 25 ; viii, 3 ; Psa. 
lxxxiii, 11. B. 0. 1249. 

ZE'LEK, (Heb. Tse'lek , fissure ,) an Ammonite and one of David’s 

valiant men. 2 Sam. xxiii, 37 ; 1 Chron. xi, 39. B. C. 1047. 

ZELOPH'EHAD, (Heb. Tselophechad', meaning unknown,) the 

son of Hepher and descendant of Manasseh through Gilead. Josh, xvii, 3. 
B. C. before 1452. He died without male heirs, and his five daughters 
claimed his inheritance. The claim was admitted by divine direction, and a 
law was promulgated, to be of general application, that if a man died with- 
out sons his inheritance should pass to his daughters. Num. xxvi, 33 ; xxvii, 
1-11. A still further enactment (chap, xxxvi) provided that such heiresses 
should not marry out of their own tribes — a regulation which the five 
daughters of Zelophehad complied with, all being married to Manassites, 


540 


ZELOTES— ZERAH. 


ZELO'TES, (Gr. Z tj^utt/c) the surname of the apostle Simon, Luke 
vi, 15; Acts i, 13,) to distinguish him from Simon Peter. In the parallel 
lists of Matt, x, 4; Mark iii, 18, he is called Simon the Canaanite, this being 
a transliteration of the Heb. JtOp, zeal. 

ZEM'IRA, (Heb. Zemirah ', iTY'Dt, music) one of the nine sons of Becher, 
the son of Benjamin. 1 Chron. vii, 8. B. C. before 1452. 

ZE'NAS, (Gr. Zrjvdg) a Christian lawyer of Crete mentioned in Titus 
iii, 13, in connection with Apollos. It is impossible to determine whether 
Zenas was a Roman jurisconsult or a Jewish doctor. Grotius thinks that 
he was a Greek who had studied Roman law. The New Testament usage 
of vopucdg, “ lawyer ,” leads rather to the other inference. 

ZEPHANFAH, (Heb. Tsephanyah ', JTJDV, hidden of Jehovah.) 

1. A Kohathite Levite, ancestor of Samuel and Heman. 1 Chron. vi, 36. 

2. The son of Maaseiah, (Jer. xxi, 1,) and sagan , or second priest, in the 
reign of Zedekiah. He succeeded Jehoiada, (Jer. xxix, 25, 26,) and was 
probably a ruler of the temple, whose office it was among others to punish 
pretenders to the gift of prophecy. In this capacity he was appealed to by 
Shemaiah the Nehelamite to punish Jeremiah. Jer. xxix, 27. Twice was he 
sent from Zedekiah to inquire of Jeremiah the issue of the siege of the city 
by the Chaldeans, (Jer. xxi, 1,) and to implore him to intercede for the peo- 
ple. Jer. xxxvii, 3. On the capture of Jerusalem he was taken and slain at 
Riblah. Jer. Iii, 24, 27 ; 2 Kings xxv, 18, 21. B. C. about 589. (Smith.) 

3. The prophet, son of Cushi, who prophesied against Judah and Jerusa- 
lem in the days of King Josiah. Zeph. i, 1. B. C. about 630. 

4. Father of Josiah (Zech. vi, 10) and of Hen, according to the reading 
of the received text of Zech. vi, 14. B. C. before 519. 

ZE'PHI, (1 Chron. i, 36.) See Zepho. 

ZE'PHO, (Heb. Tsepho', watch-tower) a son of Eliphaz, son of Esau, 

(Gen. xxxvi, 11,) and one of the “dukes” of the Edomites. Yer. 15. In 
1 Chron. i, 36, he is called Zephi. 

ZE'PHON, (Heb. Tsephon ', jis¥, watch) the first of the seven sons of 
Gad (Num. xxvi, 15) and progenitor of the Zephonites. B. C. about 1706. 

ZE'RAH, (Heb. Ze'rach , pHT, rising.) 

1. Son of Reuel, son of Esau, (Gen. xxxvi, 13 ; 1 Chron. i, 37,) and one 
of the “ dukes,” or phylarchs, of the Edomites. Gen. xxxvi, 17. B. C. about 
1740. Jobab, an early king of Edom, perhaps belonged to his family. Yer. 
33 ; 1 Chron. i, 44. 

2. Less properly, Zarah. Twin son with his elder brother Pliarez of Ju- 
dah and Tamar. Gen. xxxviii, 30 ; 1 Chron. ii, 6 ; Matt, i, 3. B. C. about 
1727. His descendants were called Zarites, Ezrahites, and Izrahites. Num. 
xxvi, 20; 1 Kings iv, 31 ; 1 Chron. xxvii, 8, 11. 

3. Son of Simeon, (1 Chron. iv, 24,) called Zohar in Gen. xlvi, 10. 

4. A Gershonite Levite, son of Iddo, or Adaiah. 1 Chron. vi, 21, 41. 

5. The Ethiopian (or Cushite) king defeated by Asa. After a period of ten 
years’ peace Asa’s reign was disturbed by war. Zerah, with a million of 
paen and 300 chariots, invaded the kingdom and pressed forward to Mareshah. 


ZERAHIAH — ZERUBBABEL. 


541 


Thither Asa marched to meet him, and drew up his army in battle array in 
the valley of Zephathah. After commending his cause to Jehovah Asa 
made the attack, which was eminently successful. Asa pursued the fleeing 
Ethiopians as far as Gerar, crippling them so that they could not recover 
themselves and again make a stand. 2 Chron. xiv, 9-13. B. C. 941. 

ZERAHFAH, (Heb. Zerachyah ', iTrnt, Jehovah has risen.) 

1. A priest, son of Uzzi and ancestor of Ezra the scribe. 1 Chron. vi, 
6, 51 ; Ezra vii, 4. B. C. about 457. 

2. Father of Elihoenai, of the sons of Pahath Moab. Ezra viii, 4. B. C. 
about 457. 

ZE'RESH, (Heb. same, £»ht, gold,) the wife of Ha man the Agagite, who 

advised the hanging of Mordecai. Esth. v, 10, 14; vi, 13. B. C. about 
510. 

ZE'RETH, (Heb. Tse'reth , fHV, probably splendor,) son of Ashur, the 
founder of Tekoa, by his wife Helah. 1 Chron. iv, 7. B. C. about 1451. 

ZE'RI, (Heb. Tseri ', n¥,) one of the sons of Jeduthun and a Levitical 

harper in the reign of David. 1 Chron. xxv, 3. He is probably the Izri 
mentioned in ver. 11. 

ZE'ROR, (Heb. Tseror ', 7h¥, a bundle,) a Benjamite, ancestor of Kish, 
the father of Saul. 1 Sam. ix, 1. B. C. before 1095. 

ZERU'AH, (Heb. Tseruah', leprous ,) the mother of Jeroboam, the 

son of Nebat. 1 Kings xi, 26. B. C. before 984. 

ZERUB'BABEL, (Heb. Zerubbabel, sown [or born] in Babylon ,) 

the head of the tribe of Judah at the time , of the return from Babylonish 
captivity. 

1. Family. Zerubbabel is called the son of Shealtiel, (Ezra iii, 2, 8; 
v, 2 ; Neh. xii, 1 ; Hag i, 1, 12, 14 ; ii, 2,) and in the genealogies, (“ Zorob- 
abel,” Matt, i, 12; Luke iii, 27.) In 1 Chron. iii, 19, he is given as the son 
of Pedaiah, the brother of Shealtiel. See Difficulties. Josephus (Ant., 
xi, 3, 10) speaks of him as “ the son of Salathiel, of the posterity of David, 
and of the tribe of Judah.” 

2. History. In the first year of Cyrus Zerubbabel was living in Baby- 

lon, and was recognized as prince of Judah in the captivity. He was prob- 
ably in the king’s service, as he had received a Chaldee name ( Sheshbazzar ) 
and had been intrusted by Cyrus with the office of governor of Judea. 
(1) Goes to Jerusalem. Zerubbabel led the first colony of captives to Je- 
rusalem, accompanied by Jeshua the high-priest, a considerable number of 
priests, Levites, and heads of houses of Judah and Benjamin. Arrived at 
Jerusalem, their first care was the building of the altar on its old site, and 
to restore the daily sacrifice. Ezra ii ; iii, 1-3. B. C. about 536. (2) Re- 

building of the Temple. The great work of Zerubbabel was the rebuilding 
of the temple. Aided by a grant of material and money, Zerubbabel was 
enabled to lay the foundation in the second month of the second year of 
their return. This was done with the utmost solemnity, amid the trumpet 


542 


ZERUIAH. 


blasts of the priests, the music of the Levites, and the loud songs of thanks- 
giving of the people. Chap, iii, 8-13. (3) Hinderances. The work had not 

advanced far before the mixed settlers in Samaria put in a claim to take part 
in it ; and when Zerubbabel and his companions declined the offer they en- 
deavored to hinder its completion. They “ troubled them in building,” and 
hired counselors to misrepresent them at the court. The result was that 
no farther progress was made during the remaining years of the reign of 
Cyrus and the eight years of Cambyses and Smerdis. Chap, iv, 1-24. Nor 
does Zerubbabel appear quite blameless for this long delay. The difficulties 
in the way of building the temple were not such as need have stopped the 
work ; and during this long suspension of sixteen years Zerubbabel and the 
rest of the people had been busy in building costly houses for themselves. 
Hag. i, 2-4. (4) Building Resumed. Moved by the exhortations of the 

prophets Haggai and Zechariah, Zerubbabel threw himself heartily into the 
work, and was zealously seconded by Jeshua and all the people. This was 
in the second year of the reign of Darius, who enjoined Tatnai and Shethar- 
boznai to assist the Jews with whatsoever they had need of at the king’s 
expense. The work advanced so rapidly that on the third day of the month 
Adar, in the sixth year of Darius, the temple was finished, and was forth- 
with dedicated with much pomp and rejoicing. Chap, v, 1-vi, 22. B. C. 
515. The only other works of Zerubbabel which we learn from the Script- 
ure history are the restoration of the courses of priests and Levites, and of 
the provision for their maintenance, according to the institution of David, 
(Ezra vi, 18 ; Neh. xii, 47,) the registering the returned captives according 
to their genealogies, (Neh. vii, 5.) and the keeping of a passover in the sev- 
enth year of Darius. In the genealogies of Jesus (Matt, i, 12, and Luke 
iii, 27) he is represented as son of Salathiel, though the Book of Chrouicles 
tells us he was the son of Pedaiah and nephew of Salathiel. It is of more 
moment to remark that while Matthew deduces his line from Jechouias and 
Solomon, Luke deduces it through Neri and Nathan. Zerubbabel was the 
legal successor and heir of Jeconiah’s royal estate, the grandson of Neri, 
and the lineal descendant of Nathan, the son of David. In the New Testa* 
ment the name appears in the Greek form of Zorobabel. 

3. Character. Zerubbabel was inferior to few of the great characters 
of Scripture, whether we consider his loyalty to Jehovah and his people, 
his zeal in the great and perilous work he undertook, his courageous faith, 
or his heroic self-abnegation. 

Difficulty.— The discrepancy between 1 Chron. iii, 19, and other passages as 
to the parentage of Zerubbabel is explained by Keil ( Commentary , in loco ) by the 
supposition that “ Shealtiel died without any male descendants, leaving his wife a 
widow. . . . After Shealtiel’s death his second brother, Pedaiah, fulfilled the Le- 
virate duty, and begat, in his marriage with his sister-in-law, Zerubbabel, who 
was now regarded, in all that related to laws of heritage, as Shealtiel’s son.” 

ZERU'LAH, or ZERUFAH, (Heb. Tseruyah ', iTVIV, wounded , or bal- 

sam , the mother of David’s three great generals, Abishai, Joab, and Asahel. 
She and Abigail are specified in I Chron. ii, 16, as “sisters of the son of 
Jesse,” while it is stated in 2 Sam. xvii, 25, that Abigail was the daughter 
of Nahash. Some early commentators have concluded that Abigail and 
Zeruiah were only step-sisters of David, that is, daughters of his mother by 
Nahash, and not by Jesse. (Keil, Commentary , in loco.) Of Zeruiah’s hus- 
band there is no mention in the Bible. 


ZETHAM— ZICHRI. 543 

ZE'THAM, (Heb. Zetham ', Dflt, olive,) the son of Laadan, a G-ershonite 

Levite, (1 Chron. xxiii, 8,) and, with his brother, a keeper of the temple 
treasury. Chap, xxvi, 22. B. C. about 1015. 

ZE'THAN, (Heb. Zeythan ', jn'T, olive, or shining ,) a Benjamite, of the 
son^s of Bilhan. 1 Chron. vii, 10. B. C. probably about 1015. 

ZE'THAR, (Heb. Zethar ', iriT» star , or sacrifice ,) one of the seven eunuchs 
of Ahasuerus. Esth. i, 10. B. C. about 519. 

ZI'A, (Heb. same, jjif, motion ,) one of the Gadites who dwelt in Bashan. 
1 Chron. v, 13. 

ZIBA, (Heb. Tsiba', or K3V, plantation , or statue ,) a former serv- 

ant of Saul of whom David made the inquiry, “ Is there not yet any of the 
house of Saul, that I may show the kindness of God unto ? ” Mephibo- 
sheth was in consequence found, and Ziba was commanded to cultivate the 
land which was restored to the king’s son. 2 Sam. ix, 2-12. B. C. about 
1040. At this first mention of Ziba he had fifteen sons and twenty servants. 
Ver. 10. When David, in his flight from Jerusalem, had gone a little over 
the height (Mount of Olives) Ziba met him with a present of asses, food, and 
wine. To the king’s inquiry, “ Where is thy master’s son ? ” Ziba replied: 
“Behold, he abideth at Jerusalem: for he said, To-day shall the house of 
Israel restore me the kingdom of my father.” This improbable calumny was 
believed by David in the excited state in which he then was, and he gave to 
Ziba all the property of Mephibosheth. Chap, xvi, 1, sq. On David’s return 
Mephibosheth accused Ziba of having slandered him, and David gave com- 
mand that the land should be divided between them. Chap, xix, 29. B. C. 
1023. 

ZIB'EON, (Heb. Tsibon f, }ijD¥, dyed, or robber,) father of Anah, whose 

daughter Aholibamah was Esau’s wife. Gen. xxxvi, 2. Although called a 
Hivite, he is probably the same as Zibeon, the son of Seir the Ho rite'. Vers. 
20, 24, 29 ; 1 Chron. i, 38, 40. B. C. before 1740. 

ZIB'IA, (Heb. Tsibya ', K'llV, roe,) a Benjamite, the son of Shaharaim by 
his wife Hodesh. 1 Chron. viii, 9. B. C. after 1450. 

ZIB'IAH, (Heb. Tsibyah ', n , '3V, roe,) a native of Beersheba and mother 
of King Jehoash. 2 Kings xii, 1 ; 2 Chron. xxiv, 1. B. C. before 878. 

ZICH'RI, (Heb. Zikri', '•"Of, memorable, renowned.) 

1. Son of Izhar, the son of Kohath. Exod. vi, 21. B. C. 1619. 

2. A Benjamite, of the sons of Shimlii. 1 Chron. viii, 19. 

3. A Benjamite, of the sons of Shashak. 1 Chron. viii, 23. 

4. A Benjamite, of the sons of Jeroham. 1 Chron. viii, 27. 

5. Son of Asaph, (1 Chron. ix, 15 ; elsewhere called Zabdi (Neh. xi, 17) 
and Zaccur. Chap, xii, 35. 

6. A descendant of Eliezer, the son of Moses and father of the treasurer 
Shelomith. 1 Chron. xxvi, 25. B. C. before 1015. 

7. The father of Eliezer, the chief of the Reubenites in the reign of Da- 
vid. 1 Chron. xxvii, 16. B. C. before 1043. 

8. Of the tribe of Judah, father of Ainasiah, which latter volunteered at 


544 


ZIDKIJAH — ZIMRI. 


the head of 200,000 men in Jehoshaphat’s army. 2 Chron. xvii, 16. B. C. 
before 912. 

9. Father of Elishaphat, one of the conspirators with Jehoiada to make 
Joash king. 2 Chron. xxiii, 1. B. C. 878. 

10. A mighty man of Ephraim who slew Maaseiah, the son of King 
Ahaz, the governor of the palace, and the prime minister. 2 Chron. xxviii, 7. 
B. C. about 741. 

11. The father of Joel, which latter was overseer of the Benjamites after 
their return to Jerusalem from captivity. Nell, xi, 9. B. C. before 536. 

12. A priest of the family of Abijah in the days of Joiakim. Neh. xii, 17. 
B. C. about 445. 

ZIDKI'JAH, (Neh. x, 1.) See Zedekiah. 

ZI'DON, (Heb. Tsidon ', pT'V ) fishery,) the eldest son of Canaan. Gen. 
x, 15, “ Sidon ; ” 1 Chron. i, 13. B. C. about 2218. 

ZFHA, (Heb. Tsicha', NJTV, thirsty .) 

1. One of the Nethinim whose descendants returned from the captivity. 
Ezra ii, 43 ; Neh. vii, 46. B. C. before 536. 

2. A ruler of the Nethinim after the return from Babylon. Neh. xi, 21. 
B. C. 536. 

ZII/LAH, (Heb. Tsillah', shade,) one of the two wives of Lamech 

the Cairiite, to whom he addressed his song. Gen. iv, 19, 22, 23. She was 
the mother of Tubal-Cain and Naamah. B. C. about 3875. 

ZII/PAH, (Heb. Zilpah', a trickling,) the female servant given by 

Laban to his daughter Leah as an attendant, (Gen. xxix, 24,) and by Leah 
to Jacob as a cCncubiue. She was the mother of Gad and Asher. Gen. xxx, 
9-13; xxxv;-26; xxxvii, 2 ; xlvi, 18. B. C. 1753-1706. 

ZI1/THAI, (Heb. Tsilthay', 't6v, shadow.) 

1. A Benjamite, of the sons of Shimhi. 1 Chron. viii, 20. B. C. after 1451. 

2. One of the captains of thousands of Manasseli who deserted to David 
at Ziklag. 1 Chron. xii, 20. B. C. about 1058. 

ZIM / MAH, (Heb. Zimmah ', ntST, purpose .) 

1. A Gershonite Levite, son of Jahath, the grandson of Gershom. 1 Chron. 
vi, 20. B. C. after 1490. He is probably the same as the son of Shimei in 
ver. 42. 

2. Father or ancestor of Joah, a Gershonite in the reign of Hezekiah. 
2 Chron. xxix, 12. B. C. before 726. At a much earlier period we find 
Zimmah and Joah as father and son, (1 Chron. vi, 20,) for in the various 
families the same name often repeats itself. 

ZIM'RAN, (Heb. Zimran', pot, celebrated ,) the eldest son of Keturah 

and Abraham. Gen. xxv, 2; 1 Chron. i, 32. B. C. about 1852. His de- 
scendants have not been positively identified. 

ZIM'RI, (Heb. Zimri ', my song , or celebrated.) 

1. The son of Salu, a Simeonite chieftain, slain by Phinehas with the 
Midianitish princess Cozbi. Num. xxv, 14. B. C. 1452. When the Israel- 


ZEtfA — ZOBEBAH. 


545 


ites at Sliittim were suffering for their impure worship of Baal Peor, Zimri 
brought this woman into his tent to commit adultery with her. This shame- 
less wickedness so inflamed the zeal of Phinehas the high-priest that he 
seized a spear, and pierced both of them through in the very act. 

2. The fifth king of Israel, who reigned only seven days. He is first 
mentioned as captain of half the chariots of the royal army, and as chief 
conspirator against King Elah, who was murdered while indulging in a 
drunken revel in the house of liis steward in Tirzah. His first act as king 
was the slaying of all the house of Baasha. But the army, which at that 
time was besieging the Philistine town of Gibbethon, when they heard of 
Elah’s murder, proclaimed their general Omri king. He immediately marched 
against Tirzah, and took the city. Zimri retreated into the innermost part 
of the late king’s palace, set it on fire, and perished in the ruins. 1 Kings 
xvi, 9-20. B. C. 920. 

3. The eldest of the five sons of Zerah, the son of Judah. 1 Chron. ii, 6. 
B. C. after 1706. 

4. Son of Jehoadah and descendant of Saul. 1 Chron. viii, 36 ; ix, 42. 
B. C. about 945. 

ZI'NA, (Heb. Zina', fcWf, perhaps abundance.) 1 Chron. xxiii, 10. See Zizah. 
ZIPH, (Heb. same, a flowing ,) the eldest of the four sons of Jehaleleel. 

1 Chron. iv, 16. B. C. after 1451. 

ZFPHAH, (Heb. Ziphah ', HS'l, feminine of Ziph,) the second son of Je- 
haleleel and brother of the preceding. 1 Chron. iv, 16. 

ZIPH'ION, (Heb. Tsiphyon ', Gen. xlvi, 16.) See Zephon. 

ZIF'POR, (Heb. Tsippor ', “yjQV, a sparrow ,) father of Balak, king of 

Moab. His name occurs only in the expression “ son of Zippor.” Num. xxii, 
2, 4, 10, 16; xxiii, 18; Josh, xxiv, 9; Judg. xi, 25. B. C. before 1452. 
Whether he was the “ former king of Moab ” alluded to in Num. xxi, 26, we 
are not told, nor do we know that he himself ever reigned. (Smith.) 

ZIF'PORAH, or ZIPFCyRAH, (Heb. Tsipporah ', fern, of Zippor , 

sparrow ,) daughter of Reuel or Jethro, the priest of Midian, wife of Moses and 
mother of his two sons Gershom and Eliezer. Exod. ii, 21 ; iv, 25; xviii, 2; 
compare 6. B. C. 1531. The only incident recorded in her life is that of 
the circumcision of Gershom. Chap, iv, 24-26. 

Zl/ZA, (Heb. Ziza ', m abundance.) 

1. Son of Shiphi, a chief of the Simeonites in the reign of Hezekiah. 
1 Chron. iv, 37. B. C. about 726. 

2. Son of Rehoboam by Maachah, the granddaughter of Absalom. 2 Chron. 
xi, 20. B. C. after 974. 

ZrZAH, (Heb. Zizah', nPT.) a Gershonite Levite, second son of Shimei. 

1 Chron. xxiii, 11 ; called Zina in ver. 10. 

ZOBE'BAH, (Heb. with the article, hats-Tsobebah', n33kn, the sloio 

moving ,) the second child (probably daughter, as the word is feminine) of 
Coz, of the tribe of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 8. B. C. after 1451. 


546 


ZOHAR — ZURISHADDAI. 


ZO'HAR, (Heb. Tso'char, “ilTf, whiteness , light.) 

1. A Hittite, and father of Ephron, from which latter person Ephraim 
bought the grave of Machpelah. G-en. xxiii, 8; xxv, 9. B. C. before 1860. 

2. Fifth-named of the six sons of Simeon, (Gen. xlvi, 10; Exod. vi, 15;) 
elsewhere (1 Chron. iv, 24) called Zerah. 

ZO'HETH, (Heb. Zocheth ', Jinib perhaps strong ,) son of Ishi, of the tribe 
of Judah. 1 Chron. iv, 20. B. C. after 1451. 

ZO'PHAH, (Heb. Tsophach ', riDiV, a cruse,) son of Helem, or Hotham, 
the son of Heber, an Asherite. 1 Chron. vii, 35, 36. B. C. about 1451. 
ZOPHA'I, (Heb. Tsophay', from Zuph ,) a Kohathite Levite, son of 

Eikanah and ancestor of Samuel. 1 Chron. vi, 26. B. C. before 1171. In 
ver. 35 he is called Zuph. 

ZO'PHAR, (Heb. Tsophar ', sparrow ,) one of the three friends of 

Job. Job ii, 11 ; xi, 1 ; xx, 1 ; xlii, 9. He is called a Naamathite, or inhab- 
itant of Naamah, whose location is unknown. 

ZOROB'ABEL, (Matt, i, 12; Luke iii, 27.) See Zerubbabel. 

ZU'AR, (Heb. Tsuar', littleness ,) the father of Nethaneel, of the 

tribe of Issachar. Nethaneel was chief of his tribe at the time of the Exode. 
Num. i, 8; ii, 5; vii, 18, 23; x, 15. B. C. before 1490. 

ZUPH, (Heb. Tstlphj Pj-fV, honey-comb ,) a Levite of the family of Koliath 
and father of Tohu in the ancestry of Samuel. 1 Sam. i, 1 ; 1 Chron. vi, 35. 
B. C. about 1320. 

ZUR, (Heb Tstir, “fiV, a rock.) 

1. Father of Cozbi, (Num. xxv, 15,) Emd one of the five princes of Midian 
who were slain by the Israelites when^Balaam fell. Num. xxxi, 8. B. C. 
1452. 

2. Son of Jehiel, the founder of Gibeon. 1 Chron. viii, 30 ; ix, 36. B. C. 
after 1451. 

ZU'RIEL, (Heb. TsnrieV , my rock is God,) son of Abihail, and 

chief of the Merarite Levites at the time of the exodus. Num. iii, 35. B. C. 
1490. 

ZURISHADDA'I, (Heb. Tsurishadday' , my rock is the Al- 

mighty,) father of Shelumiel, the chief of the tribe of Simeon at the time of 
he exodus. Num. i, 6; ii, 12; vii, 36, 41; x, 19. B. C. 1490. 


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